New figures released show that Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) retains its leading position in the region’s event industry. DWTC-managed venues are set to host a total of 106 major events in 2007, and the group has already secured a number of new exhibitions that will push the total to an all-time high in 2008.

Dubai’s leadership position has been confirmed by research from MICE International and research consultant The Right Solution, which showed that, among a research population of 368 trade buyers and 192 suppliers, Dubai held the top spot in the five most popular destination choices for meetings and events.

Dubai also held the lead position for the destinations that survey respondents believed will attract business in the future.

Executives at DWTC are confident that this strong industry support will continue to be reflected in the volume of new exhibitions looking to secure space at DWTC’s venues, with the number of new shows booked for 2008 already reaching double figures by April 2007.

“Dubai’s ongoing success in attracting new trade exhibitions to the region underlines both the dynamism of the industry and the strength of DWTC’s offering for international event organisers,” said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre.

Among the shows already announced for 2008 is Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME), running from the 16th to 18th June 2008.

Organised by Fairs & Exhibitions, the company behind the Dubai Airshow, AIME is set to be one of the aviation industry’s premier exhibitions, covering everything from seating and fabrics to in-flight entertainment and communication technologies.

“Because of its position and the high quality of the facilities available, Dubai is a natural partner for targeted events of this nature. The aviation industry in the Middle East is one of the fastest-growing in the world, and we anticipate major interest in this specialized show,” said Virginia Kern, Chairman, Fairs & Exhibitions.

New shows launched for 2007 include China Sourcing Fair: Gift & Home Products, which is set to bring one of Hong Kong’s largest trade shows to Dubai in June, and Sweets Middle East, a specialist food exhibition held in conjunction with Messe Koln, that will take place in November 2007.