The Japanese automobile industry, one of the leading exporters of cars and automobile parts and accessories to the UAE and the Gulf region, is expected to participate in full strength at the sixth Middle East International Motor Show. The event will be held at the Dubai World Trade Center exhibition complex, November 8-12, 2001.
The affluent GCC economies, benefiting from growth in oil prices last year, continue to provide a largest share of the regional automobile sale. The GCC countries reported GDP growth in the range of six to 25 per cent in 2000. Meanwhile, according to the latest statistical report of the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) the Japanese car sales in the GCC region grew by five percent last year.
Most of the leading Japanese car manufactures including Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Daihatsu Mitsubishi and Suzuki will be participating in the Show. Nissan Motor Co. is launching a host of new vehicles including a hybrid concept vehicle, Infinity FX45 at the Motor Show. In addition, its all-new 4x4 sports utility vehicle (SUV), the new Nissan X-TRAIL will be unveiled for the first time in the region.
The Toyota and Lexus range at the show will include the high-end 4x4 LX470, sophisticated RAV4 and the powerful Land Cruiser. The Honda stand will feature the brand new CMV 7-seater coupe minivan and the completely revised CR-V sports utility vehicle. To add to the excitement Honda will exhibit the Jordan Honda Formula One racing car and motorcycles and off-road bikes.
Al Yousuf Motors, the distributors of Daihatsu vehicles will showcase the 2002 models including the new Terios, YRV and Sirion in addition to the Yamaha and Suzuki range of two wheelers and all-terrain bikes.
The Dubai Motor Show with the participation of more than 300 international companies is expected to attract more than 60,000 visitors. “The Middle East region with its high per capita income represents a large market for luxury automobiles. The Dubai Motor Show, while facilitating business for the automobile manufacturers from around the world, provides an opportunity for discerning car buyers from the region to take a close look at the latest models and technology,” said Pankaj Nadkarni, International Project Manager, DWTC. — (Mena Report)
© 2001 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
