20 October 2008
Hundreds of Senior Technology Executives Converge at GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK Global Conference is creating some of the most important networking opportunities in the ICT industry, according to delegates at this year's exhibition.

This year's Global Conference has been expanded to include 35 tracks as well many power lunches and discussion forums allowing CxOs the chance to share experiences and open dialogue exploring developments and technology advancements.

Senior ICT Professionals have been arriving from around the region to discuss the current IT market, and opportunities to develop throughout the Middle East.

Delegates report that the ICT sector remains strong, with opportunities for development and growth especially within the Middle East.

"THE GITEX Global Conference is proving hugely popular again this year," said Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the show organiser, Dubai World Trade Centre. "I'm delighted that so many senior decision makers are using this as a platform for networking and knowledge exchange."

One of the senior speakers at this year's Global Conference, Fadi Hindi, the Head of IT planning and enterprise architecture for Dubai Customs hosted a packed tutorial on 'Enterprise Architecture: Drawing up a Blueprint for alignment'.

"The week long GITEX Global Conference offers excellent learning opportunities for industry professionals across several sectors," said Mr. Fadi Hindi. "Through exchanging knowledge and expertise, it provides guidelines to make wise investments in the IT industry. In the current economic climate there has never been a greater need for updated information and advice," he added.

Fazial Eledath, CIO, of Dubai Bank also took part in the first of a series of CxO lunches where discussions surrounding 'Customer First - IT in banking' took place.

"GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK has always been one of the best places to meet ICT executives in the region," Mr. Fazial Eledath said. "It allows us to see other people in the Middle East and interact with senior managers from other companies. The global attraction of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK reaches beyond what is often seen in Dubai."

To complement the GITEX Global Conference, GITEX Majlis, an executive business programme for CEOs and senior business professionals, is providing the perfect environment for exclusive meetings.

This year there is an emphasis on using the new Park and Ride service at Zabeel Park as well as the shuttle bus services in and out of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK. There are also 60 shuttle buses from main points such as hotels, malls, City Centre and Dubai Internet City.

GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK 2008 is open from 10am - 7pm daily on 20-22 October and 10am - 5pm on 23 October. The exhibition is open to Trade and business professionals only. The price of a one-day pass is 40 AED and 100 AED for a five-day pass. Admission includes access to all events including GITEX Business Solutions, GULFCOMMS, and Consumer Electronics. The Consumer Electronics segment only will be open, free to the general public on 23 October.

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About GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK
Website: www.gitex.com 
Dubai World Trade Centre will organise three major components of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK, designed to maximise the value for business visitors and exhibitors.

GITEX Business Solutions - The Leading International IT Trade Event for Enterprise and SMBs for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia

GULFCOMMS - The Largest International Telecommunications Trade Event for Mobile, Fixed, IP and Satellite for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia

Consumer Electronics - The Premier International Trade Event for Consumer Electronics, IT Systems, Components and Peripherals for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia

Incorporating the following targeted events:

GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK Global Conference  - This key networking platform brings together the crème de la crème of industry experts and ICT professionals under one roof and will feature an unparalleled series of strategic keynotes, seminars and dynamic networking sessions. The event gives delegates a priceless opportunity to learn from, debate with and exchange views with some of the leading experts within the ICT industry.

GITEX Majlis - This executive business programme for CEOs and other top level executive attendees, is designed to ensure that they enjoy a hassle-free experience at the show. Keeping their busy schedules in mind, members can enjoy easy pre-completed registration, advance issuance and delivery of the GITEX Majlis Badge and Executive Lounge facilities. These are just a few of the benefits offered to GITEX Majlis members.

New for 2008 - GITEX Digital Game World - GITEX Digital Game World, an interactive event that will incorporate the largest digital tournament ever held in the Middle East. Taking place simultaneously at GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK and GITEX Shopper & Consumer Electronics Expo the event will cover all aspects of gaming. GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK will provide a platform to discuss the business-to-business potential of this innovative market, including special sessions on online retail sales and interactive advertising whilst regional teams will battle it out in a series of organised games and online tournaments, held at GITEX Shopper. 

Gadget Glam - This exciting showcase presents a fascinating mix of innovations in consumer technology and promises to attract even those with an interest in technology, not to mention gadget lovers who want a sneak preview of the latest in the market before anyone else. The event consists of a catwalk and showcase area featuring everything from mobiles to mp3 players and HD Cameras to LCDs. A fantastic innovative way to present new launches this event delivers one of the fastest, most lucrative markets in the world, at the largest show of its kind in the region. 

About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
Website: www.dwtc.com 
As the organiser of GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK, Dubai World Trade Centre offers over 29 years' experience of delivering world-class events in the Middle East, providing local, regional and international exhibitors with unmatched expertise and in-depth market knowledge. Our team organises 15 of the largest and most successful international and regional shows in Middle East, providing an ideal platform for business development in the region.

Our commitment to ongoing innovation within the exhibition industry has supported the rapid growth and development of a wide range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer shows, and delivered consistent satisfaction to exhibitors and visitors. DWTC works with the leading trade bodies and industry associations to ensure that all exhibitions deliver full value and are built upon the real needs of their specific sector.

For more information, please contact:
Amanda Slater
Dubai World Trade Centre
Tel: (+9714) 308 6661
E-mail: amanda.slater@dwtc.com

Jon Barber
Wallis Marketing Consultants
Tel: (+9714) 390 1950
Fax: (+9714) 367 2801
E-mail: jon.barber@wallsmc.com

© Press Release 2008