Under the patronage of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development and the Chairman of the Federal Transport Authority for Land and Maritime, the 5th edition of Breakbulk Middle East will strongly emphasize the effective use of technology to advance the sector forward. The implementation of Augmented Reality is one of many technology-inducing initiatives which reinforces BBME's industry advancing aspirations. The event will return to the UAE on Feb. 25-26, 2020. The two-day conference and exhibition will take place in the heart of the city at the DWTC (Dubai World Trade Centre). BBME will offer the Middle East region's wide range of key players and top decision makers a convenient location of assembly. Speaking on the addition of ‘Breakbulk AR' at next year's event, Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development and the Chairman of Federal Transport Authority for Land and Maritime emphasized, "Those who don't fall in line, fall behind, and Breakbulk Middle East has done a tremendous job of aligning with the global shift of digitalization to avoid the latter. A willingness to adapt in a timely manner has contributed to the event's continual progression and its simultaneous influences in the industry's development." He added "the breakbulk industry, and all associated industries which are integral to the Middle East's infrastructure, are reliant on innovative efforts for fostering a technologically sound and sustainable environment; The 5th annual edition of the event in February 2020 will assist in nurturing such innovation, and ‘Breakbulk AR' is a commendable addition." Eng. Ahmed Sharif Al Khouri, General Manager of the Federal Transportation Authority for Land and Maritime, clarified "The UAE maintained its top position in the Middle East among 115 countries to help digital companies thrive and traditional businesses harness the digital dividend. We are working hard to create a vibrant maritime environment to attract industry leaders and promote UAE's status as a global shipping centre supported by a series of leading quality initiatives. The digital revolution is transforming the world. That'swhy we entirely support ‘Breakbulk AR' initiative that will add a distinctive value to the overall's event's experience." ‘Breakbulk AR' will serve as a showcase platform for exhibitors to display their innovative endeavors and industry enhancing initiatives. Exhibitors can submit footage from relevant industry projects to have their works virtually broadcasted at the renowned GCC event. Submissions will be displayed on a dedicated wall for visitors and exhibitors alike to witness the groundbreaking achievements and pioneering ambitions of an industry that serves as a key infrastructural pillar in the region. Additionally, the event's conference agenda will be comprised of topical sessions that align with BBME's vision of realizing the industry's potential to continually progress. Ben Blamire, the event's Commercial Director, said "the 2019 edition of BBME saw over 3400 attendees, and 64% came to source new suppliers and business partners. This is a strong indication of the value which Breakbulk Middle East yields in contributing to the country's overall economic status. Understanding this significance, we have highlighted technology and innovation as key themes for next year's event. The world is rapidly advancing and it is vital that the breakbulk sector remains inventive and resourceful to optimize operations and benefit the entire industry. ‘Breakbulk AR' is an initiative to promote imaginative methods of accelerating the industry's growth and development." Sponsored by loyal key partners like King Abdullah Port, Agility, Bahri Logistics, Abu Dhabi Ports, King Abdulaziz Port, MICCO, COSCO Shipping and Port of Salalah, both the conference and expo guarantee face-to-face opportunities to discuss these topics in greater depth. Alongside the exhibition, BBME offers a full two-day conference with topical subject matter covering significant industry issues to enable project cargo specialists with the ability to seize regional opportunities and construct effective project plans. Leslie Meredith, Marketing Director of Breakbulk Events & Media stated, "We are in the process of finalizing an agenda which will highlight the latest trends and technologies in the breakbulk and project cargo industry. Accordingly, we are also conceptualizing topics that ensure next year's 2020 edition creates necessary dialogue and stimulates thoughtful approaches to boosting the innovative potential of our industry. Breakbulk Middle East has steadily grown in both size and its collective contributions to the sector. Next year will be a milestone year for both the event's existence and the technological excellence that we are anticipating to be revealed." Meredith concluded saying, "We will be opening the door for registration for the fifth edition of the event in October 2019 and we welcome all industry leaders and experts to join us by registering through our official platforms." To get your ticket and book your stand, visit the official website: https://www.middleeast.breakbulk.com/Home — SG
