The largest consumer electronics exhibition in Abu Dhabi, ADES 2014 will take centre-stage over 10,000 sq metres of exhibition space to accommodate more than 100,000 visitors. Organised by DOME Exhibitions, the mega shopping event has received the confirmed participation of leading names in the retail sector that are looking to grab a share of the burgeoning UAE consumer electronics market that stood at AED14.32 billion in 2013. Similar trends are being witnessed in the global electronics consumer industry with RCNOS business research consultancy indicating CAGR of around seven per cent during 2012–2015.

Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper 2014 is being staged at a time when the emirate is set to achieve a robust seven per cent annual growth between 2010 and 2015 and a six per cent year-on-year growth through to 2030 according to Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. The UAE capital is one of the world’s wealthiest economies globally, with an estimated per capita GDP of US$109,000 in 2013.

Humaid Al Dhaheri, Chief Commercial Officer at Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), said: “Through hosting exhibitions like ADES, we hope to consolidate ADNEC’s portfolio as a premier venue for leading consumer and trade events. The first edition of ADES was an unmitigated success both in terms of the footfall generated and in the number of participating exhibitors.  The overwhelming response has led to our doubling the exhibition space this year and bringing in many more exhibitors to allow customers to benefit from the pick of the best deals right at their doorstep.”

Dony Cyril, Exhibition Director at DOME Exhibitions, said: “Smartphone demand is rising rapidly, and will be further boosted by the strong take-up of 4G LTE subscriptions. Computer Sales is expected to increase from AED 8 bn in 2013 to AED 9 bn in 2017. Leveraging this trend, the second edition of ADES is looking to extend the benefits of exclusive deals across a wider target segment – a significant reason behind our strategy to double the exhibition space and bring in more value-additions in terms of event agenda.”

According to a survey conducted during Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper among visitors to the exhibition, 81 per cent of the respondents visited the event to buy the latest in technology - clear proof perhaps of the growing appeal ADES holds for bargain hunters wishing to secure the best deals. Meanwhile, 95 per cent of survey respondents described ADES shopper as a must-attend event for consumer electronics, 99 per cent said the event exceeded their expectations in terms of venue, products and retailer space, and 85 per cent said they saved money by shopping at ADES 2014.

Neelesh Bhatnagar, CEO of Emax Electronics, said: “We identified the potential of the Abu Dhabi market when we participated in ADES 2013. E-max is home to a wide range of brands in computers, gaming, home appliances, mobile phones, cameras and electronics that are available at competitive prices. We hope to add value to the growing retail electronics market in Abu Dhabi by offering the best in quality services and lucrative deals to visitors.”

Jehas Habison, Purchase Manager at Costless Electronics, said: “Consumer electronics is a sector that has witnessed prolific year-on-year growth. ADES is a trendsetter for the electronics industry in the Middle East, given its potential as a launch pad for a gamut of new technology products. Prime factors for the success of such electronics and consumer exhibitions are the bargain prices and irresistible discounts that electronics and computer companies offer to customers on their products.”

According to a research report from Business Monitor International conducted on the UAE Consumer Electronics Market, Windows 8 tablets and ultra books should provide growth, with consumers increasingly interested in services that can be used wirelessly. AV sales are expected to increase from AED 5 billion in 2013 to AED 6 billion in 2017, while flat-screen TV sets will remain the main growth driver. Handset Sales are expected to reach AED 1.9 billion in 2013 to AED 2.6 billion in 2017.

ADES debuted in Abu Dhabi in 2013 and provides exhibitors with an ideal platform to showcase products and services related to information technology, consumer electronics, mobile technology, lifestyle and leisure, gaming, home and office automation appliances, sports and medical equipment, security and control systems. ADES 2013 drew 35 exhibitors and close to 68,000 visitors.

DOME Exhibitions, organisers of ADES 2014, hosts consumer retail exhibitions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi to provide UAE-based businesses with visibility in the global marketplace.