DOMOTEX MIDDLE EAST 2006, from 28^th to 30^th May 2006, DUBAI

The Domotex Middle East fair, organized by M/s. Deutsche Messe AG, Hannover, the only successful fair for carpets and floor coverings was held at Dubai International convention and Exhibition center, Dubai , from 28 th May to 30 th May 2006.

Handloom Export Promotion Council has organized the participation of the following member exporters under “Handloom Export Scheme” of Development Commissioner for Handlooms

Out of the above five participants M/s.KBS Textiles could not get VISA and expressed their inability to participate in the fair at the last moment. Therefore the space was handed over to adjoining occupant M/s.AKS Rugs, Panipat, as requested by the party. There is a unique procedure being followed by the UAE authorities in issuing VISAs, and this needs to be taken up any high level meetings to draw a procedure to get business VISAs from the Embassy of UAE, India.

The fair was formally inaugurated by Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of Dubai World, and afterwards he had visited few halls and interacted with some participants. Domotex Middle East was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoom, President, Deptt. of Civil Aviation, Govt. of Dubai & Chairman of the Emirates Group and with official support of the UAE Contractors Association.

Being the first time in Dubai this fair could not attract many buyers. More over the organizers have heavily depended on their own data bank of Hannover and yellow pages. Therefore, it has been suggested to them to undertake adequate publicity measures in all the Gulf countries, especially in Dubai through all the Electronic and Print media along with popular channels of FM Radio and big hoardings at vital junctions. Even the lobbies of five/three star hotels may also be used to distribute publicity brochures.

However, on its own the Council has released an advertisement in the official catalogue. Printed brochure have been distributed to the press by engaging a press box with the organizer, besides displaying and distributing in the Council's central promotional stall.

The participants have received 24 enquiries, besides one concrete order from Saudi Arabia which is to be signed. 58 business visitors have visited the stalls of our member exporters. All participants have expressed their desire to continue their participation during next year. There is a vast scope in the future fairs in Dubai , as number of Hotels and Apartments are coming up very fast. Therefore, till such time this fair needs maximum financial assistance to encourage the continued participation of member exporters.

In all, 240 participants from 36 countries have displayed their products in four halls of 14000 m 2 in the fair. The visitors are mainly from Gulf countries.

Shri R.P. Rajalingam, Superintendent, Regional Office, New Delhi , has coordinated the participation of member exporters in this fair.