15th Dubai Entertainment, Amusement and Leisure edition shows growth

Strong visitor footfall at the Dubai World Trade Centre during the three days of the show proved that the amusements sector continues to show growth despite the global economic downturn.

"DEAL 2009 showed that the amusements industry is still serious about doing business in the Middle East. Both visitors and exhibitors were extremely impressed by the show and, as organizers, we have been thrilled by the feedback received so far," said Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, President of show organisers, International Expo-Consults (IEC).

DEAL 2009 promoted 161 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing the very latest in rides, games and play equipment; water facilities; audiovisual and theatre equipment; and decorations.

As exhibitors now look back on the contacts made and potential business opportunities ahead, the general consensus is that there is still plenty of business to be had.

"For Intercard the show was professionally serviced and the attendance, both in number of exhibitors and quality of those that attended, was beyond average. Overall a good business show!" commented Alberto Borrero, Vice-President, International Marketing & Sales, Intercard.

Paul Adams, General Manager, Pan Amusements, said: "It looks like DEAL will be a big success for us with many contacts made with new and existing customers. I thought the show was well run and organised with the staff very helpful."

"The show was great this year. Many customers came to visit the exhibition and sales have been very impressive," remarked Amer Jbaily, Performance Development Manager, Megatouch Emirates L.L.C.

Brunswick bowling representative Deltatrade Est also enjoyed a successful show. "The trade show was very successful and above our expectations due to the worldwide economy situation. The trade show opens new business channels and new opportunities for Brunswick bowling in the Middle East and GCC region," said Mohamed Abou El Fetouh, Regional Sales Manager.

Even exhibitors from as far a field as Taiwan saw increased value in their DEAL participation.

"We were very glad to attend DEAL, which not only let us meet many of our old friends and customers, but also provide us a very good chance to acknowledge that the amusements market of the Middle East has many possibilities. We also met many new friends from Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arab, Qatar, Jordan, Russia, Iran, Iraq and Kuwait and have had good discussions about our future cooperation. Undeniably, we have been used to focus on American and European markets before, but after this exhibition we are going to keep an eye on the Middle East market now," said Wayne Shiah, Vice Manager Brand Marketing & PR Department, ENTROPYPrecision System Inc.

Substantial industry support for DEAL is given by the Amusement Industry Council of Europe, including Association Fabricantes Y Exp.

Maquinas de la Foia de Bunyol (Spain) Associazone Nazionale Costruttori Attrezzature, Spettcoli Viaggianti (Italy); Amusement & Leisure Equipment Suppliers of the UK; American Amusement Manufacturers Association); International Association for the Leisure & Entertainment Industries; India Association of Amusement Parks & Industries; and the World Water Park Association.