Against a backdrop of robust Saudi economy and a huge interior design market estimated at SR4.5 billion, the International Design Exhibition (INDEX) will be launching a three-day exhibition at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events. Dubbed INDEX KSA, the event that will kick off on May 29 will showcase the latest international creations, trends and innovations in interior design from over 220 of the biggest names in the industry from some 27 countries. INDEX not only focuses on furniture, but on every aspect of interior design such as interior accessories, kitchens, bathrooms, textiles and even outdoor living. INDEX is here to put Saudi Arabia on the map introducing a market that has "very minimal local investment, which is why we seek to bring international experts and introduce our caliber," said Mazen Batterjee, deputy chairman of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, at INDEX's press conference Monday night. Batterjee said the chamber is easing the procedures for such exhibitions to promote Jeddah and expose its residence to international opportunities and expertise in order to enhance their capabilities and knowledge. "Jeddah's unique nature is admired by international businessmen and such events put the entire region in the spotlight," he said. According to Jaafar Shubber, Project manager of INDEX KSA, growing construction activities trigger an increase in several markets. The impact of religious tourism and its growth also bodes well for great investment in interior design specifically in the hospitality sector. Batterjee further said with an estimated 13.8 million pilgrims expected by 2014, and with SR446.4 billion expected to be spent on hospitality in Makkah and Madina over the next decade, "interior design is a large market and opens great opportunities for investment and employment." INDEX KSA is under the patronage of Saleh Kamel, President of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It is organized by M.I.C.E Arabia Exhibitions and Conferences Co. in association with DMG:: Events. __
