Global companies look to build Middle East presence tomorrow at Dubai International Horse Fair

The Arab world has a long history of breeding and raising champion horses and its status as an international market is growing exponentially, with the rise of developments like the UAE's iconic new Meydan Racecourse and the global prominence of the Dubai World Cup meeting.

As a result, some of the world's best-established European and American specialist suppliers representing 37 countries are looking to raise their profile in the Middle East market through their participation in the Dubai International Horse Fair. Taking place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre the event will be held from the 19-21 March.

Abdulla Qassem, Board Member - Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, said:

"Many of the international companies exhibiting at this year's Dubai International Horse Fair have developed a leadership position in their home markets and are looking to generate a similarly commanding presence in the Middle East and surrounding markets."

"This provides the potential for some very interesting competition between world-class companies, as well as ensuring that visitors are provided with the widest possible selection of premium equipment," he added.

One of the most innovative exhibition stands is set to come from Germany. West Medica specialises in the manufacture and distribution of veterinary diagnostic equipment and has earned numerous awards for their test and analysis products.

Among other German companies, Nebu-Tec International GmbH is particularly known for its effective inhalation for human and veterinary medicine and Reitanlagen Stiller GmbHH demonstrates the planning and construction of the finest state-of-the-art equestrian facilities. German Horse Industry GmbH is also bringing their expert members who have exceptionally high quality standards and will be on hand to provide consultancy and advice.

Other high-end international exhibitors participating in the event will be Tuffa International Footwear of the United Kingdom, a brand synonymous with quality and style, while Olympic Horse Feeds Ltd will be demonstrating a full range of supplements for the health and performance of both horses and camels. Their products are known in the field of gastric care and protection.

New exhibitors for 2009 include Cavalor - Nutriquine NV (Belgium), which has 20 years of experience in the equine feed industry as an innovator and knowledge provider and Anfalpet of the Brazil. The company will be coming with 3 feed manufacturers - Ventil, Total Alimentos and Guabi displaying food and medicine for horses.

Other regular Dubai International Horse Fair participants include Semican International who will be bringing a range of new products such as hay, oats, hay cubes, rubber mats and shavings as well as Jaapharm Pharmaceuticals and Prime Performance Nutrition from American and Canada.

Complementing the display of equestrian products, the equine educational programme will feature the 3rd Professional Veterinarian Conference and a broad range of Exhibitor Workshops and Presentations.

The conference sessions will be hosted by local and international speakers for professional and interested veterinarians, horse owners, breeders and trainers. Guest speakers will represent many renowned UAE hospitals and laboratories, covering many different aspects from horse sickness to minimally invasive surgery, and from the development of endurance to right feeding.

"The business of horses, whether they are for racing or recreational riding, is increasingly benefiting from the use of advanced technology in partnership with traditional methods. We believe the balance of exhibitors at this year's Dubai International Horse Fair is among the most innovative and interesting we've ever assembled,"

concluded Qassem.

Dubai International Horse Fair is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and Industry and will take place from 19 - 21 March at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre Halls 5 & 6.. The fair runs from 11:00am - 8:00pm on the 19th and 21st March and from 2:00pm - 8:00pm on Friday, 20th March. Admission to DIHF is free of charge and open to trade and consumers. Persons under the age of 16 but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.