The UAE telecom industry expects to record positive growth this year, and industry executives have said they will use the Gulfcomms Exhibition, part of Gitex Technology Week 2009 as a platform for continued growth. Gulfcomms, the largest international telecommunications trade event for mobile, fixed lines, IP and satellite in the region, will provide a premium business platform for companies looking to capitalise on the projected windfall in revenue generated by the communications industry in the UAE. The Middle East remains one of the world's fastest-growing telecommunications and networking sectors, and Gulfcomms this year is attracting an even greater interest than previous years. According to Al Mal Capital, the UAE telecoms sector in 2009 is expected to reach AED29.72 billion. Scheduled to be held on Oct. 18-22, 2009 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), many international companies and regulatory bodies have already committed their attendance. Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, Enterprise Ireland, Nortel Networks, Moon Networks and the TRA, are just some of the major companies who will be exhibiting at the event. “The UAE communications industry remains one of the strongest in the region, with the increased demand for mass communication satellite connections and the continued boom in IP services,” said Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre. “Manufacturers and service providers alike recognizze the significance of opportunities provided by Gulfcomms, an event which brings the entire region's communications players together each year under on roof.” Although the Middle East is witnessing growth in fixed line, mobile and internet usage, the region still lags behind in broadband adoption. With increased market liberalization there is greater opportunity for companies operating in network development, satellite applications, and infrastructure solutions to financially capitalize from a growing industry looking to implement broadband connection. “Businesses and individuals in the region need to adopt the ‘next generation' in communication and various other forms of technology to remain globally competitive,” Adnan Al Bahar, senior director of Marketing & Communications at Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority said. “We can help these businesses make the transition and enable them to carry out their work efficiently, effectively and profitably,” he added.
