Automechanika Gulf 2005 opens

The event -taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 28-30 is spread across three massive halls featuring a wide range of auto accessories and spare parts from 37 countries.

The exhibition is aimed to satisfy an enormous GCC auto after market servicing an estimated 5.8 million vehicles.

One of the events that drew a lot of attention, was the auctioning of the Limited Edition Motorbox Jaguar XJR 9-LM in 1:18 scale in 12 Standox exclusive line of colours organized by Polimar in hall no 2, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Standox. These rare collectible models will be auctioned daily with a starting price of AED 550.00 and proceeds from this will be donated to Rashid Pediatric Clinic, Dubai.

Another interesting feature of this exhibition is the biggest German pavilion ever featured at any of the ten Automechanika exhibitions overseas featuring some of the best brands from Germany.

Apart from attracting some of the world's best automotive suppliers, the Dubai edition of Automechanika has become the ultimate shop window for trade visitors. "5,492 attended the show last year from 72 countries, many of these visitors came from Africa, Iran and throughout the Middle East which serves to prove how popular the Automechanika concept is, we expect more this year," said Mr. Micheal Dehn, Exhibition Manager with Epoc Messe Frankfurt.

This increasing interest in the show comes as no surprise considering the size of the automotive industry in the UAE, which, according to a recent study by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, is estimated to be worth around Dhs18 Billion. "This explains why dealers and workshops are now increasingly looking for growth in the after sales and maintenance markets. It also offers countless other opportunities, especially as the Emirates act as a major hub for a healthy re-export business," explained Mr. Dehn.

This year, Automechanika Gulf has attracted the participation of Cummins Inc., the world's largest engine manufacturer including diesel engines used in recreational vehicles and commercial vehicles, transfer switches, and switchgear used in commercial facilities for emergency back-up and prime power. Cummins Middle East serves 14 countries including the GCC states, near east countries, Lebanon, Jordon, and Northern & Eastern Africa. Their Facility in the Jebel Ali Free Zone includes a Regional Parts Distribution Center, Sales Showroom, Engine Rebuild Center, and state-of-the-art training center.

Another exhibitor is the first manufacturer of progressive dyes in Iran: Iran Khodro's Advanced Dyes (GPI) operates in different phases of die designing & manufacturing up to assembly, tryout and delivers parts to Iran Khodro.

"TENNECO AUTOMOTIVE, the company behind the well-known Monroe® shock absorber and Walker® exhaust aftermarket brand names, is also exhibiting," said, Mr Dehn. The company focuses on the design, manufacture and sales of advanced emission and ride control systems and elastomers for the global transportation industry - both for vehicle manufacturers and the aftermarket.

"Serenco is back this year after a very successful participation last year. We are showing our full range of automotive and industry products to customers from the Middle East and Africa region," said Mr. Robert Serruijs, President, Serenco.

Automechanika Gulf's association with Automotive Brand Protection Coalition ME screens and prohibits participation from companies, which manufacture, sell or trade in counterfeit products thus protecting consumer rights and raising awareness about the dangers of the illicit trade in counterfeit products.

Automechanika is a flagship brand name applied to around 10 comparable events organised by Messe Frankfurt around the world, from China to Mexico. This means that the Dubai show enjoys the global spotlight generated from Messe Frankfurt's 74 international offices.