02 October 2004
A showcase of the latest innovations in home entertainment, mobile technology, gaming, hardware and digital imaging

The Middle East's biggest retail annual IT event will begin today at the Airport Expo, Dubai. GITEX Computer Shopper, the retail arm of GITEX 2004 will open its doors to visitors at 11am today.

Converting the Airport Expo into Middle East's largest IT retail platform, Computer Shopper is the place for the discerning buyer to study, select and get familiar with the latest innovations in design and technology.

Helal Saeed Khalfan Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre said, "We estimate that the transaction levels at GITEX Computer Shopper will exceed the Dhs 42 million achieved last year. The exhibition will feature approximately 140 exhibitors representing more than 500 companies, and as a matter of fact, never before has the Shopper witnessed such a strong support by the vendors to their resellers by way of stand participation, branding and promotion offers."

The event is expected to draw record crowds of 80,000 shoppers till the conclusion of the event on October 8, 2004. Apart from ample parking facilities at the venue, access to the event will be made easier by special Dubai Municipality bus services to the venue from Deira and Bur Dubai bus stations.

The biggest themes at the event are digital convergence in home entertainment, wireless technology and gaming.

Special Shopper promotions from leading global and regional companies such as HP, Acer, Sony, Dell, Microsoft, JVC, Samsung, BenQ, Jumbo, Jacky's, Plug-Ins, Emirates Computers, Trigon, CompuMe, Eros Electricals, Grand Stores and Cell-U-Com include structured pricing initiatives such as bundle offers and discounts - all aimed at providing the visitor the ultimate shopping experience.

While banks have organised easy payment options, on-site banking offers, credit card promotions and instant cash prizes, retail giants such as Jumbo are offering daily raffles with attractive winnings.

Technology heavyweights such as Sony is showcasing new and cutting edge products ranging from flat panel TVs, powered by Wega Engine, VAIO Pocket, Micro Vaults and more.

The friendly and convenient ambience of the Shopper is ideal for families, businesspeople, professionals and college students, wanting to learn and invest on the simplicity and ease of using technology in day-today living.

The Airport Expo will also see the razzle and dazzle of marketing techniques from industry majors such as Samsung. Samsung's GITEX pavilion is hosting fun-filled activities including a series of quizzes and competitions, and also features a DJ who will keep visitors energized with the latest Arabic and English tracks. Moreover, Samsung's pavilion will be visited by a multi-facted actress, Simone Singh, the brand ambassador for Samsung Fan Club.

New software, faster processors, wireless consoles, mobile phone gaming and futuristic game pads are being offered by gaming majors such as Sony, UBIsoft etc.

Vendors from Acers, HP, BenQ, Samsung and Sony and their local distributors are exhibiting a wide range of new convergence devices and home networking solutions. 

The diverse product profile at Computer Shopper comprises of PCs, laptops, notebooks, printers, accessories, peripherals, office automation, telecommunication, security products, audio visual systems, educational and entertainment software, internet products, computer games, faxes, modems, communications solutions, multimedia, mobile telephones, training programmes, stationery, computer furniture among others.

-Ends-

About GITEX 2004 and GITEX Computer Shopper 2004:
GITEX 2004 already the most significant IT event in the region and beyond, this year promises to be bigger, brighter and more comprehensive than ever before. GITEX profiles include IT Equipment, Hardware Systems, Telecommunication, Wireless & Networks, Software & Applications, Banking Technology & Financial Services and Research & Development Technology.

GITEX Computer Shopper, the largest and most popular IT consumer event in the Middle East, opens today, and runs from October 2 upto October 8 at the Dubai Airport Expo. It will showcase the best and latest IT consumer technology, hardware and software from leading local and regional IT vendors, alongside some of the best deals on hardware, software, peripherals, multimedia and a wide range of products and services.

For more information, visit www.gitex.com and http://shopper.gitex.com and contact: 
Ashok Thomas
Dubai World Trade Centre
Tel: +971 4 308 6083
Fax: +971 4 331 4853
E-mail: Ashok.Thomas@dwtc.com

Elizabeth Sen
Bates PanGulf PR
Tel: +971 4  295 3456 ext:309
Fax: +971 4 295 1027
E-mail:  liz@batespangulf.com

© Press Release 2004