The international aerospace exhibition being held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates in December, is heading for a sell-out with organisers, Fairs & Exhibitions reporting space sales and reservations are well ahead of schedule.
"Half the total 25,000 square metre floor space has been contracted and another 40 per cent reserved," said Clive Richardson, CEO, Fairs & Exhibitions (F&E). "In all only a further 1,000 square metres remains to be sold. With just less than a year to go before the show, we are well ahead of target." Only 10 of the 81 hospitality chalets at the show remain available. "We are convinced that the early confirmations are a clear sign that the Middle East and its surrounding regions are viewed internationally as key markets for suppliers in the aerospace industry who may be finding it tough in other parts of the world," said Richardson. To date, exhibitors from 17 countries have contracted for Dubai 2003, which will be held at the purpose-built Airport Expo Dubai from December 7-11, 2003. Some 13 national and industry groups have signalled their intentions to mount pavilions at the show. "This includes first-time Dubai air show pavilions representing the Ukranian and Swiss aerospace industries," said Alison Weller, Project Manager, Dubai 2003. "Switzerland has reserved some 60 square metres for its pavilion, while the Ukraine has reserved 42 square metres." Dubai 2003, the eighth international aerospace exhibition in the series, is being organised by Fairs & Exhibitions in conjunction with the Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and in collaboration with the UAE Armed Forces. A specialist defence conference will be held alongside Dubai 2003. Organised by the leading international weekly publication Defense News in co-operation with F&E, the conference will be pitched at a high strategic level. It will be held at Le Meridien Dubai on December 6, 2003.