Mid East Electricity switches on dedicated lighting arena

The arena, running alongside Middle East Electricity 2003, has been launched in response to visitor interest and heightened regional demand for lighting products.

"A quarter of this year's exhibitors were showcasing lighting products and 38% of visitors networked with lighting suppliers - clear indications of the demand for a dedicated arena," said Sarah Woodbridge, Exhibitions Director, Power and Energy Division, IIR Exhibitions.

"With billions of dollars being spent on Middle East infrastructure projects the market for industrial and commercial lighting is expanding. The arena will provide a sector specific forum for the latest technology and brands, many of which will be new to the region."

The lighting arena will focus on the whole spectrum of the commercial and industrial lighting sector. It will put the spotlight on the latest lighting products, including energy efficient and speciality lamps and ancillary equipment. It will also highlight new commercial opportunities available in the sector.

"This is very good news. I am sure the industry will support and welcome this initiative. It is a very positive step by IIR Exhibitions that will help the leading lighting sector brands increase their regional market share," said Syed Abdul Wajid, Regional Manager, Middle East and North Africa, Gulf Advanced Lighting - Westinghouse.

Osram, one of the three largest lamp manufacturers in the world and a regular exhibitor at Middle East Electricity, also believes the dedicated lighting arena will have a positive business impact.

"By focusing firmly on the sector IIR Exhibitions will satisfy the growing demand from visitors for the latest lighting products and information on technological advances, said Chandra Mohan, Ozram Middle East FZE.

"I am sure that it will lead to increased business and a greater awareness of the important role lighting plays in the region's power industry."

The arena is one of a number of innovations being introduced at Middle East Electricity 2003. Others include the staging of the 9th Annual Power Generation Summit, alongside the exhibition, and a designated area on the show's web site for new and renewable energy companies as well as a separate section for lighting companies.

IIR Exhibitions reports strong exhibitor interest in next year's event, with 60% of space already contracted.

"With 83% of this year's exhibitors saying they plan to return, we are on course for another highly successful show," said Woodbridge.

"Power demand through the Middle East is expected to grow at 3-4 per cent annually, against 1-2 per cent worldwide. It is this growth, which makes the region so inviting for exhibitors and visitors alike.

"The exhibition and conference will allow international and regional players to keep abreast of critical issues such as market deregulation, the development of services and utilities, technological advances and global industry thinking," said Woodbridge.