2013 show expected to be 20percent larger than previous event.
Airport Show 2013, the Middle East’s largest event dedicated to airport technologies, operations and infrastructure is set to grow by 20% this year, building on the success of its last edition and the inflow of multi-billion dollar investments across the regional airports sector.
Despite the global economic slowdown, the region’s aviation sector continued to grow amid stormy headwinds. The aviation industry, which contributes $22 billion, or 28 per cent, to Dubai’s gross domestic product also plays a key role in diversifying the emirate’s economy.
That’s why the UAE – a country with a population of less than 8 million- is served by five national airlines that are all growing. Dubai is investing Dh28 bn while Abu Dhabi is investing Dh25 bn in expanding their airport capabilities –part of the Dh700 bn ($190 bn) airport development activities in the region.
The Middle East continues to allocate large investments for developing new and existing airports at a cost of over Dh437 bn ($119 bn). An additional Dh106 bn in various segments of this sector is under the consideration of industry experts in Middle East. Meanwhile, passenger traffic in the GCC has grown at a CAGR of 10% between 2002 and 2010, significantly higher than the global average of 1% -3%.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline & Group, said aviation is now established as a vital contributor to the UAE’s economy, contributing more than Dh145 bn ($39.47bn) or 14.7 per cent to the national GDP.
Following last year’s hugely successful show, the next edition of the Airport Show will take place from 6-8 May 2013 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, in Dubai, UAE. Designed to support the regional industry’s growth, the 2013 Airport Show will introduce a number of new and highly rewarding programmes, such as:
The Global Airport Leaders’ Forum: A rich content platform running from 7–8 May 2013,assembling the world’s foremost airport, policy, business and technology leaders in an effort to address the challenges they face and provide them with a platform on which they can exchange expertise and know-how, share best practice, forge partnerships and discuss issues of common interest.
The Airport Passenger Experience:A dedicated area designed to simulate the passenger experience, that will bring together the entire passenger value chain – from airlines to government representatives to the latest technologies, solutions and innovations that are set to revolutionize the industry.
Airport Projects Showcase: a high-end platform where airport project owners (members of our Hosted Buyers Programme) will present their projects in a seminar environment, providing exhibitors with an insight into the business opportunities of the regional airports’ sector.
6 – 8 May 2013, DICEC, Dubai UAE, www.theairportshow.com
