Healthy developments for Wellbeing Show

Organised with the support and guidance of the UAE Ministry of Health, the second edition is set to satisfy the fast growing demand for information about complementary health and the whole wellness sector.

With more than 100 clinics, spas and centres already operating in Dubai, it's clear that the wellness business has enormous and untapped potential in the Middle East. Global estimates indicate that growth for wellness products is around 17 - 20% and experts predict that the category is set to replicate the importance of the nineties dotcom era.

Local practitioners confirm that the region is ripe for rapid growth as society has yet to adopt healthier lifestyles based upon the concepts of wellbeing evident in other parts of the world like Asia, Europe and South Africa. All of this is reflected in the response from many local and international exhibitors who have already signed up including Essensuals aromatherapy spa, the Healing Zone, GMC Clinics, Motion Trading, Madi International, Broadman and 'Scelte' from Italy.

The popularity of the wellness concept transcends all communities and cultures. To cater to the requests voiced by many local and expatriate Arabs, the Arabic content for Wellbeing 2006 will be much increased. So far the show has secured the support and talents of the Arab Center for Nutrition, (ACN). Based in Bahrain, the centre's co-ordinator Dr Abdulrahman Musaiger, will present a unique paper on traditional Arab medicine, aiming to separate fact from fiction and to provide some enlightening insights into the health of the region.

According to Ms Virginia Kern, Chairman of F&E, next year's show will place great emphasis on food and lifestyle. "We are also delighted to have confirmed the attendance of Patrick Holford, who offers some much needed answers to people's questions and concerns over their eating habits and lifestyles."

He is widely regarded as Britain's best-selling author and leading commentator on nutrition, food, environmental and health issues, with regular columns in leading national newspapers and many appearances on TV and radio. During the last decade Holford has written over 20 books selling more than a million copies worldwide. His books are available in 30 countries and in 15 different languages, including Arabic.

Repeat performances are confirmed from the event's international patron, Teresa Hale, as well as Paul McKenna, best selling author of Change Your Life in 7 Days and hypno-therapy expert.

Paul McKenna's appearance at the first Wellbeing Show proved so popular that his repeat visit was assured without delay. Specialising in NLP techniques and self-hypnosis to resolve all sorts of lifestyle and eating problems, McKenna will present two half-day training workshops during the show.

Teresa Hale's contribution to the world of alternative and complementary medicine is well documented. Her landmark clinic in London's Park Crescent serves as testament to the great emphasis placed on homeopathy and traditional medicine worldwide, with a client list from all walks of life including Britain's royal family and numerous big screen celebrities.

But the concept of Wellbeing is entirely inclusive says Ms Kern. "We're trying to make the Wellbeing Show an interactive experience for everyone in the region's multi-cultural community, for the public and for practitioners and experts.

"One of the reasons for its success was that visitors and exhibitors left the show with a real sense of motivation. They felt truly inspired and regarded the show as something entirely unique for Dubai and the whole Gulf region."

This sentiment is echoed by the UAE Ministry of Health, who have not only provided their support for the show, but will also be active participants. Their Complementary and Alternative Medicine department will feature heavily in all debates and workshops.

The interactive components bring the Wellbeing Show to life and not only include the seminar and workshop programme, but also the many demonstrations and activities performed on the activity stage. "Group drumming sessions were perhaps the most memorable, but we'll add new features to this important part of the event," said Ms Kern.

Scheduled to take place from Thursday 2 - until Saturday 4 February, the show timings are designed to accommodate the routines of visitors who work and those with family commitments. Daily schedules run from 10AM - 9PM - definitely dates for your diary. More information is available at