Dubai Department of Civil Aviation grants official patronage to APTS ME 2006

"The Middle East is the world's fastest growing aviation market with the world's fastest growing airlines and a plethora of new airport and sea port developments, requiring increased investments in security infrastructure to safeguard these facilities," said Sheikh Ahmed.

"Nearly US$ 10 billion are being invested in airports across the Middle East to handle increasing forecasted demand in a region where annual passenger traffic is growing by 20% and the introduction of state-of-the-art equipment is vital to guarantee safety.

"Dubai in particular is investing heavily in Dubai International Airport and Jebel Ali Airport City to cope with projected future demand while in 2003, Dubai Ports Authority unveiled a massive Dh4.2 billion expansion plan for Jebel Ali Port, which will increase capacity from the present four million 20-foot containers (TEUs) to 21.8 million."

APTS ME, held at the heart of the region's tourism, cargo and commercial activity, will table and debate the effects this meteoric growth will have on the safety and security of residents and visitors travelling through the region.

APTS ME is the region's only dedicated aviation, maritime, border and transport security event bringing together senior professionals specialising in international aviation and maritime security and will take place from April 3 - 4 at the Grand Hyatt, Dubai, UAE.

The inaugural APTS Middle East in 2005 was attended by 700 security solutions' providers, key decision-makers and industry professionals from over 40 countries to discuss the future of transport and border security.

Michael Costain, Event Director, APTS ME, said: "With the incredible growth in tourism and construction across the Middle East, there also comes a major challenge to ensure safety and security. APTS ME will allow providers of security products and services to capitalise on this huge regional development and build profitable business relationships."

APTS ME 2006 has also secured the support of leading industry associations and government bodies including Dubai International Airport, Dubai Ports Authority, Dubai Shipping Agents Association, Arab Air Carriers Organisation, Sharjah International Airport, Fujairah Airport and UK Trade & Investment.

Anwar Ahmed Wajdi, Executive Director - Commercial, Dubai Ports Authority, said: "This conference and exhibition showcases best-of-breed industry practices and highlights products and services which are vital to long-term port-of-entry security in the region."

And according to Brigadier Ahmad Bin Thani, Director General, Department of Airports Security, Dubai Police General HQ, constant efforts are necessary to maintain and improve security throughout the region.

"APTS ME brings together security and law enforcement professionals to share experience and develop strategy for the challenges facing regional airport, port and transport terminals. This is one of the reasons we will continue to support this key security event," he said.