UAE Minister of Health opens region's largest optical exhibition

The event, which will run from 17 - 19 May at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will see first time country participation from Malaysia and increased group participation from France, Germany and Italy. Plus, continued support of China, Korea, Japan and India, making Vision-X Dubai a truly International event.

"Vision-X has seen notable growth year over year, which has always been a positive indicator to the UAE's high readiness to receiving more and more exhibiting companies in this fundamental business sector," said H.E. Dr Haneef Hassan Ali, UAE Minister of Health.

Over 140 companies from 20 countries are participating in the 2009 edition which includes NEW launches, including Jimmy Crystal, who will be showcasing their products for the first time ever in the UAE.

Vision-X Dubai is an all-inclusive event focusing on every aspect of the optical and ophthalmic industry. The dedicated Vision-Opticare sector will facilitate the needs of medical and technical professionals in the mid-level eye care industry, showcasing the latest in ophthalmic, optometric and technical equipment, instruments and machinery.

Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), said, "This year's Vision-X Dubai has been tailored to meet the specific needs of the industry, offering a number of value-added features and seminars. With continued international growth, Vision-X Dubai 2009 is set to see high volumes of new agreements signed whilst continuing to promote development & education in the region's optical and ophthalmic industry."

Organisers reported an enthusiastic opening and good visitor turnout on the first day, demonstrating the dynamism of the optical and ophthalmic industries in the Middle East and wider region.

"We are participating in Vision-X for the sixth time with 17 companies from Germany's optical industry, and we see the exhibition is even bigger this year with participation from more French and Italian companies. We have machineries, frames and spectacles as well as contact lenses," said Peter Frankenstein, the Spokesman Consumer Optics at the German Industry Association for Optical, Medical and Mechatronical Technologies.

"The largest booth we have is Rodenstock's, who are the platinum sponsor for Vision-X this year, we also have Egma Lens Factory, which are distributor here for the whole region," he concluded.

Martine Marruchi, Project Manager of the French Pavilion said, "The French pavilion this year consists of 26 companies, which makes it one of the largest pavilions at Vision-X 2009. It reflects the French industry's interest in the Middle East and Dubai in particular being the region's business hub. The French exhibitors are showcasing their elite optics products and seeking to enter the regional lucrative market."

Notable today was the highly anticipated Vision-X Dubai Fashion Shows which drew an impressive and appreciative crowd. Among the highlights were displays from Rodenstock who presented Porsche Design, Maui Jim presenting Maui Jim and Charmant who displayed their brands Puma, Lacoste and Esprit. The stunning clothing worn by today's models was courtesy of Butter Boutique. A new store to hit Dubai who prides themselves on their whimsical and quirky range.

The 4th edition of the Vision-X Dubai Conference will include topics such refractive eye surgery, the latest trends in managing refractive errors and the presentation of previously successfully managed cases. Vision-X is also proud to announce for the first time ever in Dubai the renowned international speaker Dr Terry Kim from the Dukes University, United States of America. Dr Kim, one of America's Top Ophthalmologist will be speaking at the Vision-X Dubai and Joint ECRS Meeting to be held alongside the exhibition on the 18 May.

Vision-X Dubai will again offer a diverse yet targeted range of products from the medical and fashion industries, featuring two sub sections within the exhibition.

Vision-Opticare which will facilitate the needs of medical and technical professionals in the mid level eye care industry, showcasing the latest in ophthalmic, optometric and technical equipment, instruments and machinery.

Vision Lifestyle which will cater to the fashion industry featuring branded eyewear as well as unique international designs.