Doors and Windows, Roofs and Walls 2009 opens at Expo Centre Sharjah

The show was opened by Mr Ahmed Mohammed Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Present at the opening ceremony were Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, Director-General of Expo Centre Sharjah, Mr Fasahat Ali Khan, Advisor to the Chairman and Board of Directors of Expo Centre Sharjah, officials of various government departments, and members of diplomatic corps, trade associations and the industry.

"Demand for doors, windows, walls and roofs will be on the higher side and is unlikely to see any significant drop in the near future since majority of the construction projects in the country are on schedule,"

said Mr Ahmed Mohammed Al Midfa, after the opening ceremony.

According to industry analysts, several projects in the planning stages were affected due to the difficulty in obtaining necessary financing, but those that were already off the ground are progressing well. After the knee-jerk reaction in the initial stages of the global financial crisis, construction companies are now taking advantage of the decline in building material costs and easing liquidity. This means more number of projects will be under construction than earlier estimates.

"Almost all the infrastructure projects are on track in the country and in the region. The emphasis placed on spending through higher budgetary allocations will also ensure that none of these projects will be affected in any way," said Mr Ahmed Mohammed Al Midfa.

"These positive developments augur well for the sustainable development of the construction sector and along with it, its key segment that covers doors, windows, walls, roofing, claddings and related equipment," said Mr Ahmed Mohammed Al Midfa.

For its fifth edition, the show has brought together a number of the world's leading manufacturers and suppliers of from Europe, GCC, CIS, Asia & Oceania countries and Far East. More than 100 brands of products and services are on display at over 4,000 sq m of exhibition area.

"Even during these difficult times, we have managed to bring in more than 100 brands of products and services. This is slightly higher than the previous show's numbers and reflects highly on the faith exhibitors have in the market and its opportunities," said Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa.

"The successful past editions, the credibility the sourcing platform commands in the Middle East construction industry, and the focused and exclusive product profile the show provides are the key factors that have worked in favour of Doors & Windows, Roofs & Walls. Sharjah being the gateway to the entire region also played a key role in attracting leading exhibitors. The same reasons will also ensure that the visitor turnout will be strong," said Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa.

With marketing budgets and business travel being the first of the causalities of an economic downturn, a trade show offers the most cost-effective and efficient market access. "The market reach offered by Doors, Windows, Roofs & Walls is extensive. Strategically located and perfectly timed, the event will also be a one-of-its-kind networking opportunity," Mr Saif Mohammed Al Midfa said.

The show will be the right venue to gauge market requirements, meet key industry players & decision-makers, get to know new concepts and ideas, establish new relationships and gain the right business leads.

"The Middle East is in the pole position to benefit from changing manufacturing and business trends in the world. International manufacturers and distributors are moving away from stagnant markets and exploring the Middle East for better opportunities. This is reflected in the added interest shown by exhibitors to our shows and Door, Windows, Roofs & Walls has benefited a lot from this development," said Mr Fasahat Ali Khan.

"A major shift in the region towards green and environment-friendly buildings, smart homes and innovative designs and concepts have also encouraged the construction sector to increasingly turn to the show to meet their requirements," said Mr Khan.

Doors, Windows, Roofs & Walls 2009 is displaying products including windows, doors, grills, gates, shutters and sun protection, profies & insulation, louver blinds and interior roller blinds, glass and glass products, paints and chemicals, tensile membrane, raw material, accessories, curtains, wall coverings, locks, access control systems, and door operating devices.

Gulf Glass 2009, the only dedicated event for glass machinery, processing & supplies exhibition in the country, is being co-organised along with Doors, Windows, Roofs & Walls 2009.

Doors, Windows, Roofs & Walls 2009 is being organised by Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The show is open to trade visitors only.