Middle East Optical targets explosive growth

'With over 116 exhibitors already signed up for the February 26th to 29th show, Optical 2004 is set to rewrite the record books in more ways than one,' said DWTC Director General Mubarak bin Fahad. 'The eyewear and eye care industry has been on the upsurge in recent times and with Dubai being at the hub of a consumer market of more than two billion people thanks to its geographic location at the junction of three continents. This remarkable surge in exhibitor numbers underlines that Optical Middle East continues to be the platform of choice for industry majors who have their eyes set on tapping the huge potential of this region,' stated Mr. bin Fahad.

'Consumers in the region, especially the GCC, spend significant amounts on the purchase of sunglasses, contact lenses, frames; prescription lenses and assorted eye care products, thanks to the extreme climatic conditions and relatively high purchasing power. This keeps the demand for high-end ophthalmic products and branded optical aids buoyant throughout the year,' Mr. bin Fahad added.

Optical 2004 will bring together all that is latest and greatest in the optical and ophthalmic world on to the most comprehensive platform in the Middle East region.

On show at what is regarded as the most complete and representative exhibition of its kind that takes in all aspects of the fast growing optical and ophthalmic industry, will be an entire range of exhibits from some of the leading industry figures who recognise the significant value of Optical Middle East as the ideal showcase for the burgeoning MENA and CIS markets.

Exhibitors at Optical 2004 are drawn from all over the world and include leading names and brands from Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, India, China, Korea, Singapore Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Australia and Luxembourg to name just a few.

The product profile is also vast with exhibits including spectacle frames and sunglasses, optical and ophthalmic lenses, accessories, tools and machinery, artificial eyes, optical and ophthalmic equipment and instruments, surgical instruments, spectacle lenses and lens cloths, ophthalmic consumables and eye care products, military optics, diagnostic equipment and instruments, refraction instruments and equipment, lens cutting instruments, orthoptic equipment, sports wear and safety wear among others.