Messe Frankfurt, one of the world''s largest organisers of trade fairs, will be hosting the Materials Handling & Logistics forum at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre from May 27 to 29, 2007.

Working in association with Dubai Logisitics City along with other key supporters such as Jafza, a part of the huge DP World group, the event is predicted to be a sell out, said a spokesman.

This is not surprising given the shopping list of products and services needed for Dubai''s major freight and cargo developments. In addition to Dubai Logistics City, which forms part of the huge, multi-phase Dubai World Central complex, exhibitors will be targeting numerous other projects being undertaken in Dubai and the surrounding areas.

Examples include the new Jebel Ali International Airport and the planned 19 hall, 500,000 sq m Exhibition City. Looking around the region, the whole market for freight and logistics is understandably vast.

Jebel Ali Port alone is set to handle 15m TEUs by 2010 and the new International Airport is being built to handle 12 million tons of air freight a year. Add to that the ever increasing regional opportunities in the Gulf area, Iraq and Iran, and its clear that the market opportunity is immense.

It is widely recognised that Dubai''s economic success is attributed to its unique position as an international hub for trans-shipment. Acting as the cross roads for freight from the Far East through to Africa and even Europe, in addition to most Middle Eastern markets, the Emirate''s ports and airport have served as the platform for for Dubai''s global marketing strategy.

According to Messe Frankfurt, the success of the Materials Handling & Logistics trade fair is a direct reflection of these dynamic factors.

"We are delighted with the response so far. We''re expecting over 160 exhibitors to take part from 25 countries. Major companies like Interroll from France and Link Misr from Egypt have already committed to huge spaces," said exhibition manager Amanda Westerman.

"In addition to the exhibition, Materials Handling & Logistics will provide a close look at the technological developments that are driving the industry. A programme of seminars is to be presented covering a variety of important issues.