Iraqi business delegation to attend Big 5 construction fair

Organised by the Iraqi American Chamber of Commerce & Industry based in Baghdad, in cooperation with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Fair's organisers and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, this will be one of the largest and most important business delegations from Iraq to attend a construction trade fair in the region.

The Big 5 trade fair in Dubai will provide the visitors from Iraq with a unique opportunity to network with around 1,500 companies from 50 countries worldwide, offering them a unlimited scope of products and services related to the building & construction industry. The event includes dedicated product sections for Air Conditioning, Water Technology, Glass & Steel, Marble, Bathrooms and Maintenance, as well as general building and construction materials and technology.

Rebuilding Iraq will require over US$ 150 billion over the next few years according to the World Bank, with construction and related services the single largest segment. During their visit to the Big 2004, a special networking session will give members of the Iraqi delegation an opportunity to interface with exhibitors interested in trading, investing and participating in the reconstruction efforts in their country.

"We are keen for our members to attend the most important business events outside Iraq, and the Big 5 in Dubai offers a valuable opportunity for Iraqi businesses to meet potential suppliers and trading partners from all over the world. I am grateful for the cooperation of the DCCI and all other partners in putting this project together," said Mr Raad Ommar, CEO of the Iraqi American Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

"The DCCI extends a hand of friendship and cooperation to our Iraqi brothers," said Mr Abdul Rahman G. Al Mutaiwee, Director General of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry. "We are delighted they will attend the Big 5 and have an opportunity to network with companies from Dubai and all over the world to help rebuild Iraq."

"The Big 5 is the major international construction event in the Middle East, and we are very pleased to welcome the business delegation from Iraq to this year's event. I am sure our exhibitors are looking forward to meeting their Iraqi colleagues," said Bernard Walsh, MD of dmg world media Dubai Ltd, organisers of the Big 5 trade fair.

The Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, together with the IACCI, will arrange a special one-day event for networking sessions and one-on-one activities with representative companies located in JAFZA. "We look forward to introduce a number of Iraqi business owners to our companies," said Mr Walid Hareb Al Falahy, JAFZA Senior Manager Business Development and Projects. "It will be an opportunity for us to explain the special arrangements and facilities we can offer at Jebel Ali Free Zone."

Around 30,000 key buyers and decision-makers from the public and private sectors are expected to attend this year's Big 5 trade fair.