Motor Tuning Show - Abu Dhabi 2006 (MTS - 2006), the inaugural edition of the region's first ever show dedicated to tuning and motor sports, will be held from 23 - 27 April 2006, at the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition & Conference Centre. The show will bring together the world's leading automobile manufacturers and motor tuning companies who will present the latest sports cars and high-performance cars, 4x4s and motorcycles, as well as products and services addressing this market segment.

MTS 2006 will have an exciting programme of events including an exhibition of Car Tuning & Performance, Custom-Made Premier Cars, High performance Cars, Sports & Limited Editions, Classic Cars, Motorcycles and Motor & Lifestyle Accessories from the world's leading brands.

The highlight of the event is a dedicated 'Action Spot' which will feature live parades of the latest, high-quality tuned cars and motorcycles. Quad races, 4x4 races and test drives will be added attractions for visitors.

MTS 2006 is being organised by General Exhibitions Corporation - Abu Dhabi and Messe Essen GmbH, Germany, with the full support of VDAT e.V. (Verband Deutscher Automobil-Tuner e.V.), the German Association for Automobile Tuners.

Messe Essen GmbH, one of the world's leading exhibition organisers, hosts major international shows including the Essen Motor Show, held annually in Essen, Germany. The 2004 edition of the Essen Motor Show drew over 416,500 visitors and featured 570 exhibitors.

Announcing the launch of the tuning show in Abu Dhabi, HE Ahmad Humaid Al Mazrouie, Managing Director, Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company  , said "MTS 2006 promises to be a highly successful event as it focuses on an area that is of wide interest not only to the public in the UAE, but also to visitors from across the region. I am also convinced that our partnership with Messe Essen and support for the show from VDAT, will considerably enhance the event".

Dr. Henneke, Chairman and CEO of Messe Essen GmbH said, "There is immense potential in the region for tuning and motor sports and we are pleased to partner with ADNEC to present the Motor Tuning Show to Middle East audiences. I am convinced that the Motor Tuning Show will emerge as the flagship event in the region in the years ahead. We will be happy to input our experience as the organiser of the world's leading tuning fair, the 'Essen Motor Show'."

Mr. Bodo Buschmann, President of VDAT said, "We believe in the tuning market's potential in the Middle East. A show such as MTS will breathe more life into the growing UAE car-tuning-scene. A successful show will provide business and thus contribute to economic growth. We will do our best to create a memorable event". Mr. Buschmann is also the CEO of the BRABUS Group, the world-renowned tuner and car manufacturer.

"Abu Dhabi is the ideal venue for MTS 2006 and acts as a vital link between the high growth economies of the Gulf region. Tuning and motor sport companies at the show will benefit from the city's high disposable and per capita income. The strength of the automobile sector in the UAE further enhances Abu Dhabi's attraction for companies focused on the tuning and motor sport industry" added Mr Al Mazrouie.

Mr Al Mazrouie emphasised that a key goal of MTS 2006 will be to create awareness of safe motor tuning techniques that do not jeopardise the safety of the driver, passengers, other vehicles and pedestrians. "We hope to work with the Ministry of Interior to make the public aware of safety aspects that need to be addressed when using cars whose engines and body kits are tuned. These cars are to be used only at designated tracks meant for specially tuned vehicles", added Mr Al Mazrouie.

Over the recent past, Abu Dhabi has taken several steps to position itself as a leading player in the region's auto industry. Plans have been unveiled for the launch of Autopolis and AutoHub, two landmark developments being built at a cost of AED 10.6 billion ($2.9 billion), which will house a regional distribution centre for car manufacturers and dealers as well as, automobile and auto parts manufacturing facilities. Also, Mubadala Development Company, the wholly owned investment company of the Abu Dhabi government, recently purchased a 5% stake in Ferrari for AED 512 million ($139 million).

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For further information: 

Ara Fernezian
Project Manager - MTS 2006 
Ph: 009712 4446900 x235
Fax: 009712 4446135 
Email: ara@adnec.ae

OR 

Brian Carvalho 
ASDA'A Public Relations 
Ph: 009712 6334133
Fax: 009712 6334233
Email: b.carvalho@asdaa.com