Hussain Al-Mannai
Dubai January 21 ..in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Dr. Abdul Salam Al Madani, the Chairman of INDEX Holding, inaugurated the “Integrated Platform for Exhibitions Establishment and Organization,” a regional office of the UAE-based INDEX Holding. The office, located in the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, aims to enrich the exhibitions and conferences sector in the Kingdom and bring about a qualitative leap in event organization across its provinces. This move aligns with the continued growth and expansion of the exhibitions and conferences sector in Saudi Arabia, drawing on the UAE’s expertise in this field.
INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions has a rich history spanning approximately three decades in the events organization sector. Along with its distinctive geographic location, the company has established robust relationships with numerous countries. INDEX annually organizes over 45 global conferences and exhibitions in the UAE and worldwide.
The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures from the UAE and the Arab world, including Dr. Ziad Al Lahham, President of the Saudi Dental Association, Prof. Khalil Al Issa, former President of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Dental Association, Dr. Mashari bin Faraj Al Otaibi, President of the Makkah International Conference for Dentistry, member of the Education Committee at the International Federation of Dentistry, Executive Council member of the Global Scientific Dental Alliance (INDEX Dubai), and Dr. Nahawand Thabet, Consultant in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Dentistry.
The UAE has been a central ally for Saudi Arabia, fostering cooperation and exchange of experiences. This strategic step reflects INDEX’s commitment to enhancing the strong economic relations between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
The UAE-Saudi relationship stands as a unique model on the global map, grounded in deep brotherhood between the leadership and the people of both sisterly nations. This move aims to enhance investment in Saudi Arabia as an investment powerhouse and contribute to achieving economic development, aligning with the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, “Saudi Arabia 2030.” Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia possess significant elements to strengthen bilateral cooperation, contributing to diversification and opening new opportunities in vital sectors, especially the economy.
The global market for exhibitions organization was valued at around $19.7 billion USD in 2022, expected to grow to approximately $60.7 billion USD by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 15.1% from 2022 to 2030. INDEX, as a key player in organizing conferences and exhibitions, plays a crucial role in driving industry growth. The direct and indirect business deals resulting from its events reached around $35.8 billion USD in 2023, emphasizing the importance of providing a sustainable market for all stakeholders and contributing to the growth of sectors such as hospitality, tourism, transportation, and more.
Dr. Abdul Salam Al Madani, Chairman of INDEX Holding, stated that this move is part of an ambitious strategy to enhance mutual cooperation between the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the field of conference and exhibition organization. INDEX seeks to continue its expansion and shape the future of the events organization sector, inspired by the visionary leadership of the UAE, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and his brother, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, this step is considered a significant driver for organizing events in Saudi Arabia, given the importance of the Saudi market as one of the region’s key markets. Saudi Arabia is the UAE’s top trading partner among Arab countries and the third globally. It reaffirms the strong ties between the two nations, reflecting a living embodiment and model of cooperation on both Gulf and Arab levels. This initiative is driven by the sincere determination of the leadership of both countries to strengthen communication bonds and establish a strategic partnership covering all fields of development.
Other events organized by INDEX for conferences and exhibitions include the UAE International Dental Conference and Arab Dental Exhibition – AEEDC Dubai, the leading global event specializing in dentistry. Additionally, the Dubai World Dermatology and Laser Exhibition – Dubai Derma, a specialized event for dermatology and global cosmetic treatments, and the Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition – DUPHAT, the largest event in the Middle East and North Africa specialized in the pharmaceutical industry.
