CABSAT MENA and Satellite MENA highlight strength of regional media and communications sectors

Digital media and satellite communications companies are having a significant impact on contemporary Middle East society, through the provision of connectivity for people and companies in remote areas, and by contributing to the proliferation of new media in the Arabic language.

Northern Sky Research (NSR) estimates that the global market for satellite communications alone will reach over $140bn by 2010. This increase is expected despite the current market situation simply because markets such as the Middle East are still expanding, and the fierce competition for orbital slots means that satellite operators will be reluctant to truly give up any of their current orbital allocations.

Given the social and economic opportunities presented by such a fast-expanding market, it is understandable that global companies should look to increase their footprint in the Middle East, according to the organiser of the leading trade show in this area.

"CABSAT MENA's ongoing growth and development and the launch of Satellite MENA reflects the major evolution of the satellite communications and electronic media sectors, which have changed immeasurably over the past decade. Given the dynamism and growth of local and regional markets, both shows offer established groups and new entrants to the market, an ideal opportunity to develop business in this exciting sector," said David Roberts, Exhibitions Director, Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of CABSAT MENA & Satellite MENA 2009.

Now in its 15th year, CABSAT MENA is the landmark event for the digital media industry, with Satellite MENA now looking to become the definitive show in the region for the satellite communications industry.

With more than 650 companies from over 50 countries exhibiting, the events welcome over 100 new companies such as DurAlpha, Gulf Broadcast Technology, Mobile Technology Tomorrow and Smartlink.

With over 80% of exhibitors returning this year, CABSAT MENA is still considered the most important show in the region. "Participating at CABSAT MENA has always been an integral part of our business strategy. Once again, this year we plan to announce our leadership status in the satellite receivers industry. Even during the current economic climate, we are optimistic about 2009 and look forward to revealing our exciting range of futuristic technology." said Neeraj Mehrotra, Vice President, Eurostar.

In particular, the CABSAT MENA event has become far more international since its launch, reflecting the extent to which global groups are looking to penetrate regional markets in the Middle East and North Africa. CABSAT MENA 2009 will see 11 country pavilions including the German Hessen Pavilion which is exhibiting for the first time.

"We are excited to be present in CABSAT MENA and Dubai for the very first time. This is a new market for us which we are keen to tap into due to the great potential in the region," said Martin H. Herkströter, CEO of Hessen Agentur, the Economic Development Corporation of the Hessian Ministry of Economics.

CABSAT MENA has traditionally been a launch pad for major new technologies and viewing platforms, and this year will see innovations in a number of areas. Industry-watchers are looking forward to seeing the new developments in the field of High-Definition Television (HDTV), Mobile Television, IPTV and CGA.

Under the Knowledge Exchange umbrella, CABSAT MENA and Satellite MENA will support a number of industry discussions to help companies understand the changes occurring in the satellite communications and digital media sectors. The events are endorsed and supported by the following leading international assosications and bodies: ASBU, ABU, APSCC, IABM, GVF, SSPI and WTA.

The CABSAT MENA 2009 Broadcasting Conference will address key issues that need to be considered in the decision making process for 'Going HD- Business Plans & Technology Options'. The conference will cover all three days of the exhibition with a keynote address, CTO panel debate and informative seminars.

The fifth GVF MENASAT Summit, organised by GVF will also take place on March 3- 4 and will focus on 'Evolutionary Trends in MENA Broadband: The New Dynamics of Satellite & Terrestrial Wireless'.

CABSAT MENA and Satellite MENA 2009, will run from 3-5 March at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The exhibitions are strictly for trade and business only. Visitors under the age of 18 will not be permitted entry. University students will be permitted entry on 5 March only and must be accompanied by a faculty member.