10th edition of Carpet Oasis heavily frequented by DSF2005 shoppers

Dubai Ports and Customs Authority, organisers of Carpet Oasis, greeted royal visitors, VIPs and other dignitaries who were among those who made their way around the exhibition.

The exhibition, which is one of the star attractions of the festival, brings together unique and exclusive carpet designs from across the globe. This year the exhibit is larger - it covers 4,750 sqmt and houses 50 stalls for displaying a variety of carpets. Over the 24 days period of the exhibit more than 50,000 prizes are expected to be given away and sales are likely to touch a record total of Dh 70 million.

Every carpet carries a story from its culture, its country of origin. It is unique in its design and texture. This year almost all of the carpets are handmade as opposed to the 10 per cent allowance of machine made carpets available last year. Many of the carpets displayed at the exhibition are created especially for the event, so visitors have the opportunity to view these exclusive designs for the very first time.

Iran, an empire in the carpet industry, has the biggest participation at this year's Carpet Oasis, while Syria is participating for the very first time, marking an increase in regional interest. Dubai Ports Authority and Dubai Customs have also guaranteed strong representation from a number of other countries, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, whose presence will be felt this year.

Visitors and carpet aficionados can also chance to view antique and priceless carpets, some of which go back 250 years, such as a small carpet from Kashan, Iran, which is made from pure silk. Carpets from Na'eem, a renowned city in carpet production have also been displayed. In addition to these exceptional carpets put up at Carpet Oasis 2005, the exhibition revealed a three dimensional carpet from Tehran.

Carpet Oasis 2005, the leading trade show for the carpet industry in the region, brings together leading buyers, trade visitors and industry professionals and provides a platform for industry leaders to showcase the latest trends in the field. This year 40 companies from all corners of the world are participating and on display are more than 10,000 carpets and carpet designs. Moreover, there are carpets of varied blends too - made by hand from wool and silk, or wool or silt.

Due to the large selection of designs, colours and sizes available here, the event attracts scores of tourists. Considering this special efforts have been made to ensure a hassle free visit with taxi and bus services, ATM machines, inquiry reception, security office, loading and unloading areas, meeting room, media centre, business office and carpet cleaning and washing services are made available on location.

The 24-day event is taking place from January 12 - February 4, it offers visitors not just a glimpse of the richness of each country's culture but also daily prizes. It features a wide range of premier products reflecting the latest trends in the carpet industry, and offers a whole new world of luxury to carpet enthusiasts. Timings on weekdays and Eid holidays are 10am to 10pm. On Fridays and on the first day of Eid the exhibition is open from 4pm to 11pm.

The Dubai Shopping Festival 2005 runs between January 12 and February 12, 2005 but the Global Village is on until March 31, 2005.