Dubai's health and fitness industry registering 15 per cent growth

Signature's Anne Taraby says increased awareness of the health benefits of regular exercise will help drive further growth as the reputation of Dubai as the region's sports and leisure centre spreads.

"Growth is certain, largely in Dubai, with the creation of major leisure and tourism projects, such as Dubai Sports City and Dubailand, spurring the economy," said Taraby. "The fitness and well being sectors are bound to benefit as developers and facility managers source the latest equipment."

According to Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, tourism's contribution to Dubai's GDP exceeded 17 per cent, in 2003, and its indirect impact reached a whopping 28 per cent.

Revenues generated by Dubai's hotel and serviced apartments last year recorded a 17.64 per cent growth exceeding Dh4 billion and up from Dh3.4 billion in 2002. The DTCM has forecast that these figures will go up significantly in the next three years, with tourism and real estate projects announced by the government coming on stream by 2006-2007.

Lebanon-based Signature says development is driving increasing demand for lifestyle products, such as its Spa Capsule, which provides a water jet full body massage without the need to get wet or undressed. The latest Spa Capsule will make its Middle East trade show debut at Sportex Middle East 2004 - the exclusive international exhibition for the region's sports and leisure industries - to be held in Dubai from September 7-9.

"We envisage a big demand for next generation Spa Capsules, not just from the region's spas and fitness centres but also from the healthcare sector," said Taraby. "Massage therapy was once considered just hedonistic pampering for the rich and famous but it is becoming increasingly popular with people from all walks of life as its physical, mental and emotional benefits are recognised.

"Up to 99% of visits to primary care physicians are for stress related complaints. Dry water massage therapy relaxes contracted and tense muscles, relieving compression on nerves, slows down the body's natural rhythm and helps to lower blood pressure. Studies conducted in the United States, Europe and Asia have documented that regular 10-15 minute sessions can reduce the incidence of illness."

Organised by International Expo-Consults (IEC), Sportex Middle East 2004 will be the largest in the event's history. To date companies from 10 countries have confirmed their participation. The exhibition will feature a South African pavilion for the first time, as well as an official delegation from China.

"Awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle is growing rapidly throughout the Middle East. As a result the fitness and well being sectors, in particular, are booming thanks to the demand generation by massive leisure and tourism investment in facilities," said Mohammed Falaknaz, Vice President, IEC.

"Sportex Middle East will provide a networking forum for the leading players in the sports and leisure industries interested in the latest technologies and industry trends."