Middle East fashion industry centres on Dubai as Motexha Autumn 2004 opens

500 exhibitors from 30 countries will participate at the event, being held till September 10, 2004 at Halls 1, 2 and 3 of the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC).

Coinciding with MOTEXHA, is the International Middle East Exhibition for Textile, Embroidery and Sewing Machinery and Accessories (ITCE) Dubai 2004, the region's premier show for textile manufacturing, also being held at DIEC. Together, both shows will offer trade buyers everything they need in the apparel supply chain be it textile machinery, manufacturing technology, a wide variety of textiles or branded garments, leather and fashion accessories from across the world.

Speaking at the opening ceremony held today, Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, President, DCCI commented, "MOTEXHA is one of Dubai's earliest exhibitions, distinguished by the large number of international participants. The event attracts visitors from across the Middle East, which is a great impetus for Dubai's growing retail fashion industry. This will be strengthened even more this year, as we have two industry exhibitions, MOTEXHA and ITCE, being held simultaneously."

"The Dubai government has had the foresight to develop the emirate's conference facilities and secure its position as the premier MICE destination in the region. The DCCI has invested AED 20 million to promote Dubai in the international business world. We are now reaping the results of these investments and planning, and look forward to a very busy and successful exhibition season," he added.

Geoffrey Booy, Exhibitions Director of IIR Middle East, the organizers of the show stated, "This year will offer industry buyers the most comprehensive trade show experience. MOTEXHA has been expanding year after year to accommodate changing trends and high-growth areas in the Middle East fashion, textile and leather industry. Specialist areas such as PURE Branded Wear, EuroTrendz and Retail Outfitters were introduced to cater to the demand for international fashion labels. This Autumn, we have introduced a new retailing initiative in 'Launch Pad', a trade fashion show to support the region's growing retail industry. Launch Pad will offer trade buyers and local entrepreneurs a preview of international brands seeking franchising opportunities in the region.

"The show's strategic location in Dubai, the trading hub for the entire Middle East and North Africa, Iran, South Asia and CIS countries has also secured our position as the region's premier show for the industry's buying needs. MOTEXHA's wide range of exhibitors includes China and India, the world's biggest manufacturers, who supply to the largest markets in the world; Europe - home to the fashion capitals; emerging markets such as Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines and leather manufacturers from Turkey, Cyprus, all of whom have helped us offer exhibitors a well-rounded global show experience," commented Ferry Lee, Marketing Manager, IIR Exhibitions.

"Several government bodies and trade associations have realised the value of participating in the only show of its kind for the lucrative and fast-developing Middle East region," added Lee. This year, Thailand's Ministry of Commerce's Department of Export Promotion (DEP) is bringing 40 Thai companies to explore franchising opportunities in the region. The governments of Hong Kong, Thailand, China, Italy, Cyprus, Pakistan, Turkey and the USA have also come forward to support the event, resulting in bigger pavilions as well as many countries such as participating for the first time.

To add to the trade show experience, MOTEXHA is also offering its exhibitors insight into the fashion trends for the future. The 'Trend Forum' display area, managed by designers Devika and Krishna, will forecast the 'in' colours, fabrics and styles for the next fashion season. Fashion Boulevard, a gallery of the show's big brands will visually entice trade visitors and add to the buying experience.