Buyers from five continents heading for Middle East Exclusive

Justin Boutros, Managing Director of Channels Exhibitions, which organises Middle East Exclusive, said online pre-registrations at www.middleeastexclusive.com are 400 per cent ahead of where they were at this time in 2003.

He said: "The Middle East will build more than 80 hotels and leisure developments over the next couple of years and has seen new airlines launched and a massive expansion in routes from existing carriers.

"That has meant more in-flight duty free sales and the expansion of duty free facilities at Qatar and Bahrain.

"The incredible increase in regional tourism and travel is generating massive growth in the market and that is reflected in the level of enthusiasm for this year's show."

With four months to go before the show, he was extremely positive and said: "Middle East exclusive is now regarded as a must for buyers who appreciate the exhibition offers them the right atmosphere and the time to do business with leading international suppliers.

"And for producers of luxury goods it is by far the biggest market place to find regional distributors for their products."

Middle East Exclusive 2004 will host more than 150 exhibitors with goods ranging from jewellery to luxury confectionery and tobacco products, including leading international brands and local merchandise.

The show, which last year attracted 1,730 trade visitors from 79 countries, runs from November 29 to December 1 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

Middle East Exclusive is held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai and Chairman of Emirates Group.

It is supported by Dubai Duty Free and the Middle East Duty Free Association.

Middle East Exclusive is being held in association with the Dubai Duty Free Golf World Cup which runs from November 25 - 26 and the MEDFA Duty Free Conference from November 27 to 28.