Preview: SITL Dubai 2009

SITL is one of Europe's foremost logistics shows and now it has come to the region.

FURTHER READING: 10 events that shaped the GCC's logistics industry; 10 fantastic facts about the logistics industry 

From its humble beginnings as a trade exhibition for the European logistics industry, SITL has emerged as a global phenomenon over the years, with associated shows being held in regions such as Asia, Central America and from next month, the Middle East.

SITL’s forthcoming debut in Dubai has generated a considerable amount of hype following its launch in March 2008 - at last count, approximately 6000 visitors and 250 exhibitors had been forecast by organiser Reed Exhibitions, including the likes of Al-Futtaim Logistics, DP World, Agility and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza).

“With a history spanning over 25 years in Europe, SITL is recognised as a leading international show for the logistics industry,” explains Mohamad Bader-Eddin, show director of SITL Dubai.

“Therefore, when the Dubai government expressed its interest in launching a global exhibition for transport and logistics in the emirate, we were selected from a list of several big companies to manage the project.”

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the exhibition will extend over 7700m2 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, split into four sections: transport and logistics services, logistics infrastructure, logistics real estate, and logistics systems and technology.

In addition, a range of conferences and related events have been included in the programme, including a global shippers forum, business and investment forum, and hosted buyer programme, which will bring together global decision markers from the transport and logistics sector.

“With a growing number of logistics events taking place in the Middle East, it was essential to create a unique proposition for the industry,” continues Bader-Eddin.

“A lot of effort has gone into the programme and I can confidently state that SITL is not your average show. We have utilised our rich heritage from other parts of the world to produce a complete package, whether it’s the exhibition or related events.”

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SITL Dubai will target an audience that is broadly similar to events such as Materials Handling Middle East, CEMAT Middle East and International Freight Week, which could be a reason for concern, with the latter being cancelled by organiser IIR Middle East earlier this year following a limited response from the local market.

However, Bader-Eddin is confident the timing is perfect for SITL to make its foray into the region and develop a long-term position in the local market.

“Logistics has played an essential role in the Middle East’s economic growth and its importance has been growing on a steady basis throughout the region. Starting with the United Arab Emirates and more recently with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, it’s amazing to look at the developments that are taking place,” he states.

“Can you really afford not to be part of this revolution? It’s the industry’s time right now, and everyone needs to prepare themselves for what’s coming next. Hopefully, exhibitors and visitors will find SITL Dubai a perfect launch pad to showcase their ambitions.” 

Event: SITL Dubai 2009

Dates: 3rd-5th November 2009

Venue: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

Exhibitors: An estimated 250 companies, including Al-Futtaim Logistics, DP World, Agility, Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), Mohebi Logistics, TNT Express, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Geodis Wilson, Wared Logistics and Sohar Industrial Port Company (SIPC)

Visitors: An estimated 6000 people, including logistics providers, port authorities, shipping companies, infrastructure professionals, maritime brokers and technology specialists

Associated Events: In addition to the exhibition, SITL Dubai will include a variety of supporting programmes, such as a business and investment forum, RFID space, gala dinner and hosted buyer programme

Website: www.sitldubai.com