Office Exhibition furnishes impressive results

Held at Dubai International Exhibition Centre and officially inaugurated by H.E. Khalid Bin Sulayem, Director General, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Dubai Government, Office Exhibition showcased the latest trends in office interiors and state-of-the-art office furniture and is already the most prestigious event of its kind in the region, a clear endorsement of its high international profile.

Exhibition organizer Paula Al Chami of dmg world media stated,

'This was the fifth year for Office Exhibition and this year's show eclipsed previous years' events in every way. We saw a more than 50% increase in exhibitors, a fully booked 6,000 square metres of floor space and more than 11,600 trade visitors from across the region, 35% up on 2005. These are excellent figures; numerous firms are already booking their stands for next year and the way Office Exhibition has been expanding year-on-year, the 2007 show promises to break even more records.'

A major highlight was the 'Workplace Freedom' Seminars, which is based on the need to create a motivating and productive working environment conducive to knowledge sharing, communication and innovation. Running alongside The Office Exhibition, leading international specialists shared their knowledge and expertise on workplace-related developments and innovations

Of the registered trade visitors 80% came from the UAE and 11% from Saudi Arabia and other Arab states. Visitors from other countries included significant numbers from Europe, Iran, India, North America and North Africa.

Exhibitors from 25 countries representing 225 companies took part, with seven national pavilions. For example, the British Contract Furniture Association (BCFA) supported the UK's pavilion. The Portuguese Business Association (AEP) aided the Portuguese pavilion and the Spanish Trade Association SIDI backed Spain's pavilion.

The results of questionnaires proved that exhibitors had achieved the majority of their objectives. There was high satisfaction with the quality of visitor, 91% rated visitors as 'good' or 'excellent'. And there was an 84% satisfaction rate among exhibitors with visitor numbers.

George Bocti of Sedus Stoll AG from Germany said, 'The show was successful. This is our third year and we're glad we're back. The market is becoming more competitive and you see more overseas companies here. The show is earning the right reputation.' Equally impressed was Italy's Giorgio Giacinti of Emmegi / Casamania / IB Office, who added, 'It's a big boost to see how much effort people have invested in the show. All the big players are here. I think it's about promoting ourselves and we have seen the right visitors. Next year? Absolutely we'll be here.'

Office Exhibition was also well received amongst visitors with comments from a Dubai visitor stating, 'It's a brilliant show and one of the richest in terms of quality of exhibitors and products available', while a visitor from Italy mentioned, 'We've been coming for several years now. Our clients are exhibiting our products here so we come to meet them as well as potential new clients. The show has grown tenfold over the years.'

The Office Exhibition was held in conjunction with InRetail and Hotel Show at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, last June.