Cisco debuts industry leading Networkers Event in the Middle East

This is the first time that the industry accredited networking forum will be held in the Middle East. Developed in collaboration with the government of Bahrain and with the support of His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince of the Kingdom, Networkers Bahrain represents a key milestone for Cisco in terms of furthering its commitment and ongoing investment in Middle East region.

His Excellency Shaikh Ahmed bin Ateyatallah Al Khalifa, minister of Cabinet Affairs, the kingdom of Bahrain, said: "Hosting this congress is another initiative to achieve Bahrain's vision for 2030, and part of the basic principles for economic development in the Kingdom."

Duncan Mitchell, senior vice president, Cisco Emerging Markets East and Executive Sponsor, Cisco Networkers 2010, Bahrain, said:

"Bahrain's progressive telecommunications regulatory environment is encouraging the nation, and its citizens, to harness the power of the network, to drive increased productivity levels, supporting accelerated GDP growth rates and ever higher standards of living. This strategy will strengthen Bahrain's global competitiveness and help maximize the development of its national talent. Cisco has experienced Bahrain as an excellent place to conduct business, locating its own ICT hub for the GCC in Manama. We're proud to be associated with Bahrain and honored that the Government would agree to be our host for the first-ever Cisco Networkers in the Middle East, a pioneering event for ICT leaders, in an innovative country."

Highlights / Key Facts:

• Cisco Networkers conferences are unique and compelling forums that provide Information Communications Technology (ICT) professionals with the in-depth technical demonstrations, networking opportunities and vision into current and future trends. The events offer the perfect IT educational and networking opportunity to enhance business growth. The global theme for Cisco Networkers, 2010 is 'Knowledge is Power.'

• Cisco Networkers Bahrain joins an elite group of 10 annual Cisco Networkers events that span the globe including events in the US, Barcelona, Mexico, Argentina and Australia. It will take place at the Bahrain International Circuit, home to the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix and attract over 1800 attendees from Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia.

• The Kingdom of Bahrain is a strategic country for Cisco in the Gulf region. As a strong financial center with excellent transport links, a robust regulatory framework and a rich culture, it is an ideal destination to host Networkers. Furthermore, Cisco already enjoys a strong collaborative relationship with the Bahraini government and recently opened its latest Middle East office at the Bahrain Financial Harbor. The Kingdom also represents a hub for Cisco's own ICT services. Located in the country is an Internet Data Centre that supports the delivery of multiple technologies to offices in the region, including Cisco TelePresence.

• Cisco Networkers Bahrain 2010 is not just one conference but five unique events running in parallel, over 3 days, tailored to the different technology needs of the attendees comprising:
o The Main Networkers Technical Conference targeted at almost around 1800 attendees delivering innovation technology content covering Cisco's technology solutions and architectures.

o A Chief Information Officer (CIO) & IT Executive Symposium targeted at CIO's and IT leaders
o An IT Insight Conference for approximately 150 IT managers and business decision makers.
o A dedicated Press & Analyst event targeted at approximately 40 key media and leading industry analysts.
o Innovation Awards which will recognise outstanding achievements that embrace innovation in business and technology.

• Networkers Bahrain will offer over 200 sessions delivering:
o 168 breakout sessions split across 8 technology tracks
o 17 technical seminars
o 24 customer case studies
o Walk in laboratories and Cisco Career Certification
o An engaging keynote program encompassing a unique holographic TelePresence experience incorporating senior Cisco executive speakers and high level government guest speakers
o A 'World of Solutions' exhibition featuring Cisco alongside over 45 strategic partners showcasing the latest in innovative technology solutions

• Attendees to Networkers Bahrain will also benefit from:
o Discounted travel and accommodation - 50% flight discounts on Gulf Air and discounted hotel rates for all attendees
o Waived visa fees and providing fast lanes through customs
o An enhanced entertainment package including a special night hosted by the Bahrain Ministry of Culture & Information.