Sheikh Hasher inaugurates Ambiente Arabia

The event organised by IIR and supported by Dubai Heritage Village will run until 6:00 PM on Thursday 9 October.

According to recent reports the multi-billion dollar gift and homeware market in the Gulf region is one of the few globally that is maintaining a steady 10 per cent annual growth and is said to offer opportunities in the ever growing re-export arena.

Event Director, Geoffrey Booy, of IIR the exhibition organisers said: "This is a showcase for major brands sourcing franchise opportunities, international companies looking to launch new products and services in the Middle East region and wholesalers investigating new distribution opportunities."

With more than 80 companies from over 20 countries the event seeks to attract serious business buyers from all around the region to service the 1.3 billion and growing consumer base.

Companies based in Dubai are also playing their part in the exhibition. Meenu Anand, Product Manager, of Hankook Saint James, ranked as the third largest tableware manufacturer in the world, commented on the exhibition: "This is the second time we are participating in this exhibition; it is an excellent forum for our business."

International companies new to the region made a good showing and seemed to be pleased at the possibilities in the region. "The Middle East is a new market for us and we are here to open new horizons and establish ourselves," said Jenny Doyle, Marketing Manager, SKK Limited, from the UK an international lighting company.