The new office environment - latest global developments to be showcased at the 2006 Office Exhibition

Computers are today an integral part of every office, and have brought with them a whole new set of office design considerations. Ergonomically designed furniture and the correct type and level of lighting, for example, are essential to ensure the well-being of the computer user, thus protecting and enhancing productivity. The type of office layout is changing as well, dictated by a number of factors. IT is again a key influencer, as is space per workstation and the recent move away from cubicles. And as offices become more open plan in nature, acoustics also have to be taken into consideration.

Today's ever-evolving technology means that the art of office planning and design is far more sophisticated than ever before, quickly responding to the latest technological advances. Now a highly significant showcase for both the regional and international office industry, The Office Exhibition has been developed to allow professionals involved in the design and planning of offices to see the latest products and meet leading experts to discuss the new concepts that influence design and planning.

Having posted a major growth in visitor numbers in 2005 - an 80% year on year increase -demand for space at the 2006 event is already very high. Many leading regional and international brands have already confirmed their participation, including Haworth Inc., (represented in the UAE by Gemaco Interiors), Vitra AG (Switzerland), Ahrend Int. (The Netherlands), Lammhults Mobel AB (Sweden), Herman Miller (represented by H2O Concepts), to name just a few.

"As employers recognise the beneficial effects of delivering ergonomic, worker-friendly offices, it is essential that anyone involved in the process of planning and designing are fully aware of the latest developments in the global industry" said Paula Al Chami, Project Manager, The Office Exhibition. "The Office Exhibition gives Interior Designers, Architects, End-users and Specifiers access to world leading manufacturers with whom they can share their expertise and global best practice."

The Middle East's only dedicated showcase for office furniture, interiors and technology, The Office Exhibition was specifically created and has been carefully developed, to support the development of the region's commercial sector.

"As the multi-billion dollar commercial sector continues to expand, the role that The Office Exhibition plays in keeping the region's professionals fully informed becomes increasingly important," said Bernard Walsh, Managing Director of organisers dmg world media Dubai Ltd. "It exposes them to the latest knowledge from around the world, enabling them to deliver user-friendly office environments that are adaptable, relevant to their business and more cost-effective in the long-term."

In line with its commitment to the regional industry, The Office Exhibition will, in 2006, feature an expanded programme of industry expert led seminars and conference topics. "This is a key focus in 2006," added Al Chami. "We have devoted a great deal of time to the development of this area of the event, as it increases the overall value for visitors and allows exhibitors to share key learnings in a professional atmosphere."

The Office Exhibition takes place from June 4-6, 2006 at Dubai International Exhibition Centre.