CABSAT Mena and Satellite Mena 2009 to open this week

Taking place from 3 - 5 March at Dubai International Conference and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), the two shows will deliver the region's only dedicated platforms for sourcing products and knowledge exchange within the digital media and satellite sectors.

"The success of these two niche trade exhibitions underlines Dubai's ability to deliver a world-class experience for visitors and exhibitors in every major industry. The exhibitions this year have seen an increase in international exhibitors, during the current economic climate, which is a further testament to the fact that companies are now looking to emerging economies such as the Middle East," stated Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of CABSAT Mena and Satellite Mena 2009.

The 15th edition of CABSAT Mena is once again a sold out show, welcoming more than 550 participating companies from over 50 countries, registering an increased participation of close to 10%. Over 60 new companies will showcase their products and services this year, including Abu Dhabi Media Company, AV Plus Gulf broadcasting, Mobile Technology Tomorrow and Mobision.

IABM forecasts that the broadcasting industry will be worth a total of $35.9bn by 2012 and with an online poll by Digital Production ME showing that more than 70% of industry players planning to attend, CABSAT Mena is perfectly placed for companies looking to take advantage of this growing market.

Visitors to the exhibition can also hear the latest issues concerning the indusrty as well as discuss the current economic situation and it's effect on the broadcasting sector at the CTO Panel Discussion. Panellists include Chief Technology Officers from leading broadcasters in the region including Showtime, Dubai TV and TwoFour54.

Another highlight at this years event is the Keynote Address by Edward Borgerding, CEO, Abu Dhabi Media Company (ADMC) on 'The melting ice cube: Analogue business in the Digital World.' These highlights are part of the Knowledge Exchange Programme which had a successful debut last year and includes the three day CABSAT Mena 2009 Broadcasting Conference which provides an opportunity for industry players to examine issues in the decision making process on going digital and HDTV.

Euroconsult, a marketing intelligence and consulting company, claims that the region's satellite revenues had reached over $752m by 2007. Launched in response to the increasing demand in the satellite industry in the region, the inaugral show, Satellite Mena is therefore also a must attend.event These changes in the satellite and broadcasting landscape across the region further cement the importance and need for such a niche event, more so during these uncertain times when companies are seeking key opportunities and capitalising on presenting products which are more relevant to the industry.

Satellite Mena 2009 will bring together more than 100 suppliers to the Satellite industry including market leaders such as Arabsat, Eutelsat, and Yahsat as well as the introduction of the region's first private satellite company SmartSat who have recently set up in Dubai Studio City.

Satellite Mena also offers professionals the opportunity to get up to date with the latest trends at the GVF Menasat summit which will examine the 'Evolutionary Trends in Mena Broadband: The New Dynamics of Satellite & Terrestrial Wireless'. Drawing industry leaders from world-class satellite and communications organisations, the programme will provide attendees with a value-added discussion forum within which key points on the Middle Eastern and North African satellite and broader telecommunications agenda will be investigated in depth.

Visitors to the show can also attend dedicated feature areas including Mobile TV, IPTV and the Large Exhibit display areas featuring the most advanced OB Vans, as well as the Digital Studio awards ceremony.

DWTC continues to invest in the enhancement and enrichment of its current exhibition portfolio, and particularly to ensure that major trade shows continue to meet and exceed the expectations of the industry. Both events make significant contribution to both the electronic media and satellite communication industry as they continue to bring new international exhibitors and visitors to Dubai as well as support major conferences to stimulate further professional development within the specific industries.

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.