Content

Energy

Alternative energy projects get the green

light in the UAE

Food Industry

Fish farming production in Egypt

IT Industry

Qatar projects a USD 1.6 billion investment

spending in national information technology

Others

Doing business in Saudi Arabia

Book release at the Consulate General in

Dubai

This issue’s spotlight:

Food self-sufficiency in the GCC region

Event Calendar

Meet a commercial advisor from the

MENA region when the Consulate General

in Dubai invites you to a wine tasting event

THE TRADE COUNCIL’S

NEWSLETTER FOR THE MENA REGION January 2013

Welcome to the Regional Newsletter

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the first 2013 issue of The Trade Council’s Regional Newsletter for the MENA countries. Introductory, this issue of the MENA Regional Newsletter explores the vibrant energy sector in the UAE. An increasing amount of green and sustainable energy projects are at the moment showing up in the UAE. The food industry in Egypt, the largest population in the MENA re-gion, requires future investments in their new established fish farm-ing production. The IT sector in Qatar is booming. The government in Qatar is plan-ning to invest USD 1.6 billion in national information technology in 2013 in areas such as e-health, e-education and e-government. What is more, we provide you with a guide to safer business oppor-tunities in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, you will be able to read about the book release held on the Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai. Lastly, this issue’s spotlight highlights the enormous potential for the Danish food stuff industry in the GCC region.

We hope that you will enjoy reading this issue of the MENA Regional Newsletter.

Per Tangsgaard Jensen Consul General, Head of Mission E-mail: pertje@um.dk The newsletter is published at each quarter and contains commercial, political, and economic information related to the MENA region.

2

Energy

Alternative energy projects get the green light in the UAE

The UAE is one of the world’s largest oil producers. However, the UAE is

highly active in the debate on how to ensure future contributions to the

global energy sector. Across the country, a wide range of renewable ener-

gy projects is currently in progress, as the UAE is looking to diversify its

energy production. One of the key goals set by the UAE government is to

produce seven percent of its electricity through alternative energy solu-

tions by 2020.

The Executive Council in the UAE recently approved a number of projects

that support the UAE's global role as an energy provider. The two new projects are the Shams Solar Power Plant and

Sir Baniyas wind farm in Abu Dhabi. Both of these projects will help to support the government's vision of having 7

per cent of its energy needs supplied by renewable energy.1 At the recently held World Future Energy Summit

(WFES) in Abu Dhabi it was discussed how to advance future energy, energy efficiency and clean technologies. At the

summit, leaders from across the world had the opportunity to address their view on the possibilities and discuss the

future global demand for cost effective alternative energy solutions.

In the last decade the focus on how to develop cost effective alternative energy solutions has created many projects

in the UAE, which will help meet the future demand. One of the already built projects is the Masdar City project at a

cost of USD 18 billion it is a self-sustaining solar-powered city of 30,000 residents in Abu Dhabi.

This makes the market for sustainable energy solutions in the UAE highly attractive for foreign companies to invest

in. Danish companies are frontrunners when it comes to sustainable energy solutions and products. If your company

would like to know more about this prosperous market, please do not hesitate to call us.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +971 4 348 0877 / e-mail: asthan@um.dk

1 Gulfnews.com

2 Gulfnews.com

2013 Renewable energy projects in the UAE

Shams 1: Largest solar project in the world located in Abu Dhabi. The plant will displace 175,000

tonnes of CO2 per year and its power output will be enough to power about 20,000 homes. Later on

Shams 2 and Shams 3 will be opened.

Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park: Massive solar power project announced to begin power production in

Dubai by the fourth quarter of 2013. Cost: Dh12 billion.

Eole Water based in France will begin field trials of new wind turbines that create fresh potable water

from thin air.2

3

Food Industry

Fish Farming Production in Egypt

While Egypt is under the spotlight due to the on-going transition, the population of 85 million is still growing, and the

demand for food is increasing. Food consumption is expected to annually increase by 14 % by 2016, soft drink sales

by 19.3 %, grocery retail sales by 17.8 %, and alcoholic drink sales 18.6 %.

Currently, Egypt suffers from a large food gap and the country current-

ly imports more than 40 % of its domestic food consumption. Egypt is

the world’s biggest net-importer of wheat, and if the abovementioned

food growth numbers are realized this will only widen. Consequently,

Egypt is highly vulnerable to fluctuations in world’s food prices, climate

changes and outbreaks of diseases. Adding to this; the food import

contributes significantly to the deficit on the balance of payments,

putting pressure on the Egyptian pound. Based on this outlook, Egyp-

tian food production must increase in quantity and enhancement of

quality in the future.

Fish farming could play a key role in the future as it already holds a strong position in the Egyptian market. The sec-

tor produces more than 920,000 tons of farmed fish and Egypt is the largest producer in the African continent, pri-

marily producing the fish Tilapia. Fish is a cheap source of animal protein and fish undergo a greater consumer ac-

ceptance in Egypt, and the rest of the MENA region.

Looking into the Egyptian market of fish this can be divided into the sector of retail and food service (restaurants and

hotels). Both sectors are prospering; the tourism sector is recovering after a depressing 2011, marked by the revolu-

tion. Furthermore, Egypt has recently attracted big supermarket chains like Metro Market and Carrefour in the retail

sector. The positive outlook for the retail sector is also strengthened by an expanding middle class and a deteriorat-

ing skepticism towards processed food.

Huge opportunities lie in fish farming if the share of the retail sector, which is currently low, increases, and export to

the rest of the MENA region begins. Egypt has free trade access to the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), and Com-

mon Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) which benefits from a liberal export strategy; however ex-

port of fish to the Euro zone is not possible for the time being.

Finally, the value added services related to fish production are few, and new players in the market will therefore

benefit from developing the industry in terms of whole gutted fish, filleted fish and frozen fish.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Embassy in Egypt Engy Basiouny – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +20 2 2739 6500/ e-mail: engmet@um.dk

4

IT Industry

Qatar projects USD 1.6 billion in public IT spending

The decision to award Qatar the 2022 FIFA World Cup is expected to

drive a wave of investments as the government attempts to match

global best practices in areas such as financial planning, business intelli-

gence and event management.3

To be able to match global best practice, investments has been made in

the ICT industry and the Qatari government has outlined a National ICT

2015 plan. It has been announced that the Qatari Government is plan-

ning to invest USD 1.6 billion in the national information technology.4

The National ICT Plan 2015 is based on components that the Qatari

government consider needed to create a sustainable digital future:

Improving Connectivity: Deployment of secure infrastructure.

Boosting Capacity: Enhancing digital literacy and developing skills to enable innovation.

Enhancing Public Service Delivery: Ensuring the use of innovative applications to improve delivery of public

services.

Economic Development: Creating an environment for an innovative and vibrant ICT industry.

Advancing Societal Benefits: Leveraging ICT to improve the ways society and government provide educa-

tion, healthcare and services to Qatar’s people.

The overall target for the Qatari government is to modernize the legal and regulatory framework, security, innova-

tion and entrepreneurship and to promote areas such as, e-Learning and e-Government.

E-Learning: The Qatari Supreme Education Council (SEC) is looking to create projects with a more modern and inter-

active form of education. SEC has already in alliance with well-known IT Partners developed an e-content pro-

gramme that will enhance the educational process. According to SEC 93,000 students and 15,000 teachers will bene-

fit from the programme.

E-Government: The Qatari governments launched in 2008 the Hukoomi portal. The portal is intended to provide

information and online services to all citizens. The portal hosts a wide range of government organisations and is cre-

ated to be a one-stop portal for Qatari government agencies.

To make sure that the National ICT Plan 2015 is realized the Government of Qatar is currently on the look for inter-

national corporations who are front runners within this area. This makes Qatar a profitable market to invest in for

Danish IT corporations.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +971 4 348 0877 / e-mail: asthan@um.dk

3 Business Monitor International

4 Business Monitor International

5

Others

Saudi Arabia – a good place to do business in the Middle East

According to the World Bank’s Do-

ing Business 2013 report, Saudi Ara-

bia is the best country in the Middle

East to do business in. The report

shows that Saudi Arabia is an attrac-

tive marked based on their low taxa-

tion policy where they are ranked

3rd in the world. Furthermore, it

shows that Saudi Arabia is ranked

19th in the world in regards to inves-

tor protection, and 12th in regards to property registration and access to electricity. Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest

oil producer, was ranked 22nd globally in the report.

According to Augusto Lopez-Claros, Director of Global Indicators and Analysis in the World Bank, the MENA region

has made positive changes towards business opportunities for foreigners, by reducing the complexity and cost of

regulatory processes. Moving towards a system of more transparency, sensibility and business-friendly rules, has

made the MENA region a more attractive marketplace by creating the conditions for more equitable economic

growth and a faster pace of job creation.

Saudi Arabia’s national budget for 2013 will focus on education, healthcare and infrastructure

Saudi Arabia has released the 2013 national budget, an expansionary plan that highlights the Government’s inten-

tion to stimulate the economy by focusing on an investment program. Saudi Arabia has set a record state budget for

2013 with spending valued at USD 218.7 billion, 19 % higher than the 2012 expenditure. Budget revenues are pro-

jected to reach USD 221.1 billion, leading to a surplus of USD 2.4 billion. Education and training will continue to re-

ceive the largest share of the budget at USD 56 billion (25 % of total spending), considered among the highest in the

world, while health and social affairs will receive USD 26.6 billion (12.2 % of the expenditure). A part of the Govern-

ment`s spending plan will include; 19 new hospitals and healthcare centers, in addition to continuing work at 102

hospitals and five medical cities currently under construction. Water, agriculture, and infrastructure projects have

been allocated USD 15.2 billion, which is an (11 % increase from 2012). Construction, which covers many industries,

is forecasted to be the fastest growing sector in 2013, driven by the high level of Government investment spending.

According to MEED, construction projects underway or planned in the Kingdom are worth approximately USD 782

billion.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Embassy in Saudi Arabia Ali El-Hadidi – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +966 1 488 0101 Ext. 103 / e-mail: alielh@um.dk

6

Others

Book release at the Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai

The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai hosted a book release at

Tuesday the 4th of December for the highly recognized Danish author and

consultant, Nicolai Tillisch, for his latest book Effective Business in the Gulf.

The book has already been well-received among business leaders in the

Gulf as Effective Business in the Gulf sets out to help any executive and

manager to succeed in the Gulf. The book also provides valuable reflections

for professionals working internationally, as the region serves as an ex-

treme case. Nicolai Tillisch has written the book based on his experience of

working almost a decade in the Middle East. Interviews with business lead-

ers and thorough research have complemented his personal insights

throughout the book.

Gulfnews wrote after the book release that the book is unique in three

ways; “It provides insights into the reality of business in the Gulf today, as

well as its emerging future. It helps business leaders on their journey to

achieve success, focusing not just on what business people, who are already

successful, are doing. Finally, it asks questions so that the individual leader

can articulate what exactly is required of him or her to unlock personal po-

tential and that of his or her specific organization”.

The Danish Consul General in Dubai, Per Tangsgaard Jensen, said the following after the event: ”We have been very

satisfied with the event. It is exciting for us, when a Dane like Nicolai Tillisch distinguish oneself by writing a book that

has a large impact on businesspeople in the Gulf”.

What is more, besides being the author of Effective Business in the Gulf, Nicolai Tillisch is the founder of the business

consulting company Dual Impact. His book has been published by Motivate Publishing and is available in all the lead-

ing bookshops and other selected outlets in the Gulf.

The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai have with great success hosted a broad variety of events and if your

company would like for the Consulate General in Dubai to be the setting for an exclusive dinner, a networking event

or a business launch, please do not hesitate to contact us.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +971 4 348 0877 / e-mail: asthan@um.dk

7

Spotlight

On the agenda: Food self-sufficiency in the GCC region.

The member countries of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC, con-

sisting of Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Oman)

are expected to grow over the next decade, in terms of population

and GDP. By 2020 the GCC population is forecast to reach 53.5 mil-

lion, a 30 % increase since 2000. The GCC countries are among the

worlds richest in terms of oil and gas reserves and per capita wealth.

However, the region suffers from a great lack of food self-

sufficiency. First of all, almost 90 % of the GCC countries food re-

quirements are imported, due to the water shortage in the region.

Today, the dependence on imports is considered too high by the

governments across the GCC region and therefore food security is a

key concern.

Domestic production is insufficient to meet the current require-

ments and food imports in the GCC region reached USD 25.8 billion

in 2010. Today the total Middle East food service market is estimated to be worth more than USD 31 billion a year.

Of the USD 31 billion a year it is estimated that 30 % (or USD 9.3 billion) of the total purchases is meat, poultry and

fish.5 The high dependence on imports makes the GCC food supply very vulnerable and highly dependent on the

world food market. In the past, any form of disruption in food imports, either due to policy restrictions by exporting

countries has affected the region significantly. In the GCC region, food and foodservice are hugely important sectors,

as they cater to the growth and development of the tourism and hospitality industries.

Therefore, as a result the food security agenda is highly important for the region and most of the GCC countries have

taken initiatives to enhance domestic production. In the UAE alone there are approximately 6,400 greenhouses and

23,000 farms across the country. As the figure on the right shows only limited areas is currently arable.

However, the GCC countries have invested in international agricul-

tural projects to lower the cost of imported goods and to secure the

food market in the region. As both the GCC governments and private

investors in the region are looking for alternative ways of ensuring

food imports by controlling the source of supply. For now the main

strategies are buying or long-term leasing land in developing coun-

tries to use for export-oriented farming, mainly in Africa. Most ex-

perts agree that it is important that investments are made carefully and in accordance with the food-producing

land.6 To provide the best opportunities for food security in the long term the key to successful agricultural invest-

ment lies in sharing the gains among the food-producing and food-importing countries.

5 Gulfnews.com/life-style/food

6 Economist Intelligence Unit, GCC report (EIU)

8

The increased focus and the small steps to become more self-sufficient have created the exhibition - Gulfood.

Gulfood is the world’s biggest annual trade exhibition for the food and hospitality industry with an 113,397 sqm in

exhibition space. Gulfood 2013, will take place in the Dubai World Trade Centre from the 25th – 28th of February

2013. The exhibition is held in Dubai, as it is one of the most effective business hubs to approach the worldwide cli-

ents and to expand the business of companies.

Today, the Gulfood fair is not only a GCC event, as it has developed into an international event. In 2012, the Gulfood

exhibition attracted 3800 companies from 81 countries and with more than 60,000 visitors from 152 countries it

makes it the world’s biggest food and hospitality exhibition. The exhibition offers a 360 degree offering with exhibi-

tors within: Beverage & Beverage equipment, Equipment & Hospitality, Food & Drink, Ingredients, Processing &

Packaging and Restaurant & Cafe.

If you would like to know more about Gulfood please contact Event Manager, Lars Emanuelsen, from Export Promo-

tion Denmark at le@exportpromotiondenmark.dk.

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +971 4 348 0877 / e-mail: asthan@um.dk

Fact box: 2013 Break down

90 % of the GCC regions food is imported. The total Middle East food service market is estimated to be worth more

than USD 31 billion a year. GCC states account for USD 9.5 billion (meat, poultry and fish account for

30 %). The Middle East is a growing franchise destination with annual growth of

27 % valued at USD 14 billion. Fast food accounts for 40 % of this. The annually Gulfood exhibition will take place in Dubai from the 25th –

28th February, 2013.

9

Events, exhibitions and other

Lebanon:

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Embassy in Beirut Ahmad Mahmoud El Loubani – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +961 70222956 / e-mail: ahmlou@um.dk

Beirut Motorcycle show-Exhibition

Date: June 26th -30th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.beirutmotorcycleshow.com/

Description: Lebanon's 2nd beirut MotorCycle show 6,000 sq. of exhibition space will be used to showcase products and services of top motorcycle brands such as Harley Davidson , KTM Yamaha and many more.

Energy Lebanon-Event

Date: June 4th -7th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.energy-lebanon.com/

Description: It addresses all the energy needs of the construction and development sectors, including large industrial and commercial projects, building and housing. Services are: Modern Lighting products and technolo-gies, ventilation, cooling and many more.

EcOrient-Conference

Date: June 4th -7th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.ecorient2013.com/

10

Description: It will address critical regional energy and environmental issues, providing green solutions for a better and more sustainable future, specifically in the Levant regions.

Horeca Lebanon-Event

Date: April 9th -12th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.horecashow.com/

Description: Established in 1994, Horeca is the region’s largest meeting place both the Hospitality and Food & Bev-

erage Service Industries. This 20th edition will include international trade show for Hospitality and

Foodservices, an international trade show for Food Industry and Beirut international Wine & Drinks

Show.

Wedding Folies-Exhibition

Date: Feb. 7th -10th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.promofair.com.lb/

Description: Wedding Folies is the longest-running and most successful wedding tradeshow in Lebanon and the re-

gion. Brides and Grooms-to-be, along with their family and friends, can find inspiration, fresh ideas

and reputable industry professionals to help them plan the wedding of their dreams.

Forward Recruitment Forum-Exhibition

Date: April 18th -21st 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.forwardforum.com/

Description: BUSINESS Forum offers an ideal business platform for entrepreneurs, business owners, managers, in-

ventors, investors and professional advisors to exchange services, ideas, advice and investment oppor-

tunities.

11

ITEX-Exhibition

Date: May 15th -19th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.promofair.com.lb/

Description: ITEX is set to provide the right balance between IT, Telecom & Electronic industry players, and senior

decision makers.

Dream-Exhibition

Date: Oct. 16th -19th 2013

Location: BIEL, Down Town

Web: http://www.promofair.com.lb/

Description: Dream Exhibition, is a distinctive trade fair that brings together industry professionals and the public at

large, providing them with a common platform to identify growing businesses and discover new op-

portunities.

LOGEC (Lebanon Oil, Gas & Energy Conference)-Conference

Date: Feb. 26th -27th 2013

Location: Hilton Habtoor, Grand Hotel

Web: http://www.lboilgas.com/

Description: Annual meeting for International and regional oil, gas, and energy industry, and a hub for global indus-

try leaders to meet and do business.

New Arab Woman Forum-Conference

Date: March 1st -2nd 2013

Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Beirut

Web: http://www.nawforum.com/

12

Description: Discussion on how the on-going political and economic transition is shaping up in the Arab world and its

impact on women.

UAE:

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Consulate General in Dubai Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +971 4 348 0877 / e-mail: asthan@um.dk

Arab Health

Date: January 28th-31st 2013

Location: Dubai World Trade Centre

Web: www.arabhealthonline.com

Description: The Arab Health Exhibition & Congress is the largest event of its kind in the Middle East. Now in its 37th

year, Arab Health provides an unrivalled platform for the world’s leading manufacturers, wholesalers

and distributors to meet the medical and scientific community from the Middle East and beyond.

IDEX

Date: February 17th – 21st 2013

Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC),

Web: www.idexuae.ae

Description: IDEX is the only international defence exhibition and conference in the MENA region demonstrating the

latest technology across land, sea and air sectors of defence. It is a unique platform to establish and

strengthen relationships with government departments, businesses and armed forces throughout the

region.

Middle East Trade Finance Week

Date: February 18th -20th 2013

Location: Jumeriah Emirates Tower

Web: www.exportagroup.com

13

Description: Middle East Trade Finance Week, incorporating the 10th Annual Middle East Trade & Export Finance

Conference alongside various stream sessions, roundtables, workshops and networking events, will be

taking place in Dubai.

Gulfood

Date: February 25th – 28th 2013

Location: Dubai World Trade Centre

Web: http://www.gulfood.com/

Description: Gulfood provides a trade and sourcing platform without equal, where international flavours find world-

class business. Benefit from the region's premier knowledge exchange from education, training, com-

petitions & live events.

Egypt For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Embassy in Egypt Engy Basiouny – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +20 2 2739 6500/ e-mail: engmet@um.dk

EGYPT African Beauty Show 2013

Date: April 11th – 13th 2013

Location: Conrad Hotel and Exhibition, Cairo, Egypt.

Web: www.alfamedical.org

Description Egypt and Africa Beauty Trade Show will be held in Cairo during February 2013, where 80 Egyptian and

international major exhibitors will be participating in this event.

Around 4000 visitors from Egypt and the Middle-East will be attending, which will provide participants

with a great opportunity to expand their Sales in Egypt and the Middle-East region through having the

chance to build a solid network and possibly future business relationships.

1st Med Ports 2013

Date: April 23th – 24th 2013

Location: Alexandria Hilton Hotel Green Plaza

14

Web: www.transportsevents.com

Description: MED Ports is the only annual Container Ports, Shipping and Transport Logistics Exhibition and Confer-

ence trade event serving the Mediterranean ports and shipping markets.

1st MED PORTS 2013 will be hosted by the Arab Seaports Federation in the beautiful city of Alexandria

in Egypt; this event will draw senior executives and decision makers from the leading ports of the re-

gion.

MED PORTS is an event that will stand out as an important convergence for the entire Mediterranean

Ports and Terminal Market place, as it shall focus on promoting and facilitating the movement of con-

tainerised and general cargo all along the Mediterranean water ways.

Saudi Arabia

For further information, please contact: The Royal Danish Embassy in Saudi Arabia Ali El-Hadidi – Head of Commercial Section Phone: +966 1 488 0101 Ext. 103 / e-mail: alielh@um.dk

Petrochem Arabia 2013

Date: January 12th – 14th 2013

Location: Dhahran International Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.petrochem-arabia.com/

Description: Held bi-annually, Petrochem Arabia provides a senior level conference and international exhibition fo-

cused on technological improvements and sustainability of the downstream and petrochemical indus-

tries. The industry has seen a sharp rise in productivity in the last few years, posting 64 percent growth

in earnings due to new capacity and international players entering production. Building on the success

of 2009's event, Petrochem 2013 will provide the ideal platform for technology providers, suppliers,

vendors and industry experts from the public and private sectors to network, exchange ideas, learn

and identify new, lucrative business opportunities.

Buildex 2013

Date: February 3th – 6th 2013

Location: Dhahran International Exhibition Center

Web: http://saudibuildex.com/

15

Description: BUILDEX 2013 brings you the best opportunity to introduce your company to rapidly and enormously

growing building and construction market of Saudi Arabia. Currently the Public Sector construction

programmers and the infrastructure are worth approximately USD 150bn. Upcoming 4 year plan in-

cludes residential building worth of USD 6bn to satisfy the demand of rapidly growing population.

With the launch of a number of number of Mega Projects over the next few years, coupled with the

expansion plans for existing projects, exceptional growth in Saudi Arabia’s building and construction

sector is certain.

Propac Arabia 2013

Date: February 18th – 21th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events

Web: http://www.propacarabia.com/

Description: Propac Arabia is the Premier International Exhibition on Processing & Packaging in Saudi Arabia. The

main emphasis of the event will be to address the needs of the post-harvest and food technology, pro-

cessing and packaging industries. Rapid expansion within the industry has in turn led to an increased

demand for all forms of packaging and printing machinery and supplies. This is a market not only try-

ing to satisfy its own demand, but also a developing export trade.

New projects are generating ample opportunities for international engineering firms, manufacturers

and suppliers of equipment, machinery and spare parts to showcase their products and services to a

high profile audience of businessmen and professionals. Green techniques, sustainable development

and eco- design remain key factors of innovation. Food Processing Manufacturers, Beverage Produc-

tion, Laboratory, Canner, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, Frozen Food Manufacturer, Quality Control-

lers, Preserved Food Manufacturers, Dairies, Contract Packaging, Machinery Importers and Distribu-

tors, Retail Packaging, Seafood Processing Manufacturers, Refrigeration, General Food Manufacturer,

Food Exports, Packaging Material Manufacturers.

Machinex Arabia 2013

Date: February 18th – 21th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events

Web: http://www.machinex-arabia.com

Description: To satisfy the surging demand for all kinds of machinery and equipment,

machinex arabia is firmly established as the Kingdom’s main event to showcase the best equipment

and services; and to provide a meeting point for manufacturers, entrepreneurs and prospective part-

ners.

16

Machinex arabia, held in Jeddah, the Kingdom’s commercial center is the perfect annual meeting

place for global suppliers of machinery and equipment and like-minded Saudi manufacturers and

businessmen to explore together the huge prospects prevailing in this most lucrative market sector.

With space at a premium, it is advisable that all organizations wanting to take advantage of this rare

opportunity to meet prospective customers, suppliers and business partners should book their space

without delay.

The International Exhibition and Forum for Education 2013

Date: February 18th – 22th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.iefe.sa

Description: The International Exhibition and Forum for Education 2013 (IEFE 2013) is the 3rd in our series of events

focused on providing substantial opportunities for international businesses in the education sector to

create partnerships and connect with decision makers from Saudi Arabian and GCC government bod-

ies overseeing education developments and also senior representatives from Universities, Colleges,

Training Institutions, secondary education institutions and public and private schools in the region but

particularly from Saudi Arabia.

It is the official annual event of the Saudi Ministry of Education. It is also the biggest and most well at-

tended educational exhibition and conference in the Gulf Region with over 40,000 visitors turning up

at the 2012 event.

The Big 5 Saudi

Date: March 9th – 12th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Event

Web: http://www.thebig5saudi.com/

Description: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s largest gathering for construction products and services returns from 9 –

12 March 2013. The Big 5 Saudi has doubled in size and attracted 9,922 visitors from 52 countries, a

9.2 percent increasing from 2011.

Some of the popular features returning in 2013 include the sell-out Concrete Repair Workshop, with

already world-renowned experts, and the LEED Workshops on sustainable building concepts. Also re-

turning is the Concrete Zone, which last year showcased over 60 international and Gulf exhibitors vast

range of products from construction chemicals to block-making machinery. New to The Big 5 Saudi

will be the dedicated PMV Zone dedicated to plant, machinery and vehicles. This will include a wide

spectrum of products from earth-moving equipment, truck mixers, tower cranes and lifting equip-

ment.

17

Medexpo 2013

Date: April 6th – 8th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Event

Web: http://www.medexposaudi.com

Description: Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mishaal bin Majed bin Abdulaziz, Governor of

Jeddah; MEDEXPO Saudi Arabia is currently the largest and only international healthcare exhibition

and forum in the Kingdom focusing on a wide array of health sectors, including medical, dentistry,

ophthalmology, laboratories, pharmaceutical and bio-technology and medical tourism

The show receives overwhelming support from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health, Saudi Food &

Drug Authority and the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The health sectors at MEDEXPO

Saudi Arabia 2013 are supported by the Saudi Dental Society, Saudi Pharmaceutical Society, Saudi

Heart Association, Saudi Ophthalmological Society, Albir Society and the Saudi Scientific Society for

Biomedical Engineering amongst others.

Saudi Building and Interiors Exhibition 2013

Date: April 14th – 17th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events

Web: http://www.sbie-arabia.com/

Description: Saudi Building & Interiors Exhibition tends to add sparks to the building and construction sector of Saudi

Arabia. This show offers a comprehensive range of construction equipments and maintenance ma-

chineries that are of advanced technology and are easy to use and install. The event strives to offer

complete information about the recent inventions made in the construction and interior decoration

industries. The exhibitors find this exhibition to be the perfect business meeting place where the ex-

hibiting companies get an opportunity to establish themselves and create their own brand name. The

attendees will come across helpful information which is necessary in understanding the work flow of

this sector so that they are completely informed before getting into partnership. The visitors get into

personal interaction with the exhibitors and discuss about the various issues happening in this arena.

The exhibitors find this show to be the perfect place where they can introduce their range and in re-

turn receive instant feedback from the attendees present.

Metal and Steel 2013

Date: April 20th – 23th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.metalsteelsaudi.com

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Description: Metal & Steel Saudi Arabia 2013 is the only truly steel focused show in the Gulf region for steel, foundry

and metallurgy industry: Putting Gulf and Saudi Arabia under the microscope, Right from the outset. It

has firmly established itself as a solid platform for industry professionals in the region and a must-

attend show for manufacturers, distributors, decision makers and contractors, etc.

Metal & Steel Saudi Arabia 2013 will be moving to an exciting new venue and big business city will un-

doubtedly raise the profile of the event to a completely new level, whilst the timeslot will ensure

thatit does not just appeal to visitors from the region, but alsothose looking for a global meeting

place. 2013 edition will be the perfect opportunity for you to maintain and improve your presence in

the regional market. Since its inception in Saudi Arabia last year, we have worked endlessly to get the

Metal & Steel brand into the Gulf & Saudi Arabia, and provide you the exhibitor with the best possi-

ble, highest profile regional – and global – profile

Saudi Health 2013

Date: May 12th – 14th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.saudihealthexhibition.com

Description: Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions, organisers of the world’s most important health care exhibition ‘Arab

Health’, and Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC), organizers of Saudi Medicare Exhibition for the last 15

years, announce the launch of the new Saudi Health Exhibition and Conference.

This launch is based on the strategic collaboration between Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions and Ri-

yadh Exhibitions Company. The Saudi Health Exhibition will integrate the knowledge and experience

from these two events-industry giants to create the largest international health care event in KSA and

to serve all aspects of this USD 20bn multi spectral industry. By exhibiting at or sponsoring Saudi

Health 2013, you are gaining a positive opportunity to demonstrate the essence and scope of your

company, brand and products, and all in a very cost effective manner.

Wepower 2013

Date: May 13th - 15th 2013

Location: Dhahran International Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.wepower-sa.com/

Description: WE-Power Expo is an electricity power and energy exhibition held in the eastern province of the king-

dom of Saudi Arabia. This show promises to deliver real business and distributorship opportunities for

local and international visitors. E-POWER is not only an exhibition; it is an industry event where con-

current seminars and workshops will be organized grouping many delegations, field's specialists and

decision makers from regional and international institutions gathered at one place.

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Saudi Food, Hotel and Hospitality Arabia 2013

Date: May 19th – 22th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events

Web: http://sfhh-arabia.com/

Description: New foods, flavors, ingredients, additives, choices and needs are cropping up fast and are being met

equally fast by restaurants, supermarkets, food outlets and catering. Saudi Arabia’s fast food market is

expected to reach a value of USD 4.5bn in the next three years, driven by high demand among young,

affluent citizens. The packaged food market is expected to grow to USD 21.7bn by 2014 and sales ris-

ing by around 5 percent annually. The relatively young and educated population in the Kingdom is in-

creasingly health conscious, embracing health and dietary foods and beverages; a market growing at

nearly 12percent a year.

Saudi Arabia also has an expanding food processing industry, which relies mostly on imported raw ma-

terials. This has prompted many international companies to set up licensing agreements with local

manufacturers in Saudi Arabia, to produce their brands. Across all areas of the food market, growth is

due to continue to serve the widening demand of the domestic market and its burgeoning population.

Suppliers able to provide these needs have the perfect opportunity to take advantage of food arabia

to meet and conduct business with Saudi manufacturers, agents and distributors.

Saudi Energy 2013

Date: May 26th – 29th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.saudi-energy.com/

Description: Saudi Energy is one of the largest and most specialized energy exhibitions in the region and attracts

hundreds of regional and international companies. The show provides a unique and dynamic platform

for buyers and suppliers to make contacts and drive future developments in Saudi Arabia’s energy sec-

tor. The exhibition addresses all the energy needs of the construction and development sectors, in-

cluding large industrial and commercial projects, various infrastructure projects, buildings and hous-

ing.

In 2011, Saudi Arabia attracted over 180 companies from 27 countries. This year, the exhibition will

devote a special section for alternative energy technologies and applications, offering a unique oppor-

tunity for companies specialized in this domain to showcase their products and technologies.

Saudi Energy is certified by the UFI - The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry in recognition of

its high international standard of organization.

20

Makinat Saudi Arabia 2013

Date: May 26th – 29th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.makinat-saudiarabia.com/

Description: Makinat Saudi Arabia 2013, another promising trade show by Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC) - the

region’s leading exhibition and fair organizer -, the event will offer an ideal venue for key regional and

international manufacturers and suppliers to showcase their latest novelties in machinery, machine

tools, equipment, accessories and spare parts, all under one roof. Supported by Riyadh’s Chamber of

Commerce and Industry, Makinat Saudi Arabia 2013 will provide you with an excellent business net-

working platform whether you are an industrialist, a manufacturer, an agent, or a distributor. This

year’s edition will also comprise a special woodworking machinery section, in addition to other spe-

cialized pavilions covering all aspects of the industrial machinery sector.

The International Trade Exhibition for Industrial Machinery, Machine Tools, Equipment & Technology

will be held concurrently with Saudi Energy 2013, the International Trade Exhibition for Electricity,

Power Generation, Alternative Energy, Water Technology, Lighting and HVAC, bringing even more val-

uable opportunities to your business.

Saudi Agriculture 2013

Date: May 26th – 29th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.saudi-agriculture.com/

Description: With Saudi Arabia being the biggest agriculture market in the Middle East, the 31st International Agri-

culture, Water and Agro-Industry Show, Saudi Agriculture, is an eagerly awaited event for internation-

al and local companies to showcase new products and technologies to the country.

With the continued patronage and support of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Agriculture, Saudi Agriculture

is the Middle East's largest agriculture exhibition attracting exhibitors from the Middle East, Europe,

the Americas and Asia in addition to local companies who will be displaying the latest agricultural

products, services and equipment. The show's visitors include high-ranking officials, major producers,

manufacturers, dealers, agents and distributors looking to explore partnerships and growth opportu-

nities within the largest and fastest growing agricultural market in the GCC region.

FlooRex Arabia 2013

Date: June 8th – 11th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events

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Web: http://floorexarabia.com

Description: The construction and infrastructure sub-sectors in Saudi Arabia are strong, and has placed emphasis

firmly on design of the most fascinating interior spaces. Saudi Arabia is the region's most buoyant con-

struction market over the next 5 years and is often bigger spaces which will create huge interior design

with more innovative flooring solutions. The Gulf region is also incredibly diverse in its flooring needs,

requirements range from practical, cost, simple designs to high luxury design.

The 4-day trade show provide one-stop-shop to interact with all flooring professionals, wholesalers

and retailers, decision-makers from the construction industry, architects, interior designers, project

planners, developers, investors and potential buyers from Saudi Arabia to network with industry ex-

perts and SEE live demonstrations of new technology and products.

Saudi Build 2013

Date: November 4th – 7th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.saudibuild-expo.com

Description: Saudi Build 2013, the 25th International Construction Technology and Building Materials Exhibition, pro-

vides contractors, real estate developers and building owners with a full range of building soluti-

ons. Saudi Build is the largest business to business construction fair in the Kingdom.

Trade visitors to Saudi Build 2013 will be able to evaluate the latest offerings in Building Materials &

Equipment, Architectural Finishing Products, Stone, Marble and Granite Products, Construction Tools

and Technology, Engineering Services, Infrastructure Materials, Security & Safety Systems, among oth-

ers. They will also establish new representation agreements, expand their existing business and source

their project needs, all under one prime location.

Index 2013

Date: November 12th – 14th 2013

Location: Jeddah Center for Forums and Events Center

Web: http://www.indexksa.com

Description: INDEX International Design Exhibition Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as the largest and the strongest

gathering in Saudi Arabia for the design community. Building on the overwhelming success of the

launch edition in 2012, INDEX Saudi Arabia is returning to Jeddah event bigger and better and will take

place from 12-14 November 2013 / 8-10 Muharram 1435H at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and

Events.

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With a complete programme of features and seminars, INDEX International Design Exhibition Saudi

Arabia offers a unique show experience for exhibitors and visitors. In 2013, INDEX will run design sem-

inars covering various hot topics of the interiors and design community. The seminar platform will

give an opportunity for visitors and exhibitors to discuss the latest trends and innovations in design,

present the latest projects and products.

Gitex Saudi Arabia 2013

Date: November 17th – 20th 2013

Location: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center

Web: http://www.saudigitex.com/

Description: Held under the patronage of the Saudi Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, the

2013 edition of GITEX Saudi Arabia will take place from 17 - 20 November 2013 at the Riyadh Inter-

national Convention & Exhibition Center, concurrently with the Saudi Communications 2013 exhibi-

tion certified by UFI - The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. GITEX 2013 state-of-the-art

platform is ideal for decision-makers and businessmen in the region to showcase the latest ICT prod-

ucts and technologies, network and maximize business opportunities across this dynamic sector.

GITEX has been continuously supported by the Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information

Technology; and every year, a large number of decision-makers and high-profile officials from minis-

tries to government agencies gather at GITEX to find out about the latest innovations and technologi-

cal solutions that optimize companies performances, and to meet with regional and international ex-

hibitors to explore the possibilities for developing the sector in Saudi Arabia.

The 12th edition of the GITEX is a premier venue for leading global brands to grab their share of the

Saudi market; hundreds of international exhibitors have maintained a steady presence in previous edi-

tions of GITEX, drawing in thousands of visitors every year.

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Key economic figures for the MENA region

Population (2012)

Bahrain 1.2 million

Egypt 80.9 million

Iran 77.0 million

Iraq 33.6 million

Jordan 6.4 million

Kuwait 3.8 million

Lebanon 4.0 million

Oman 3.2 million

Qatar 1.8 million

Saudi Arabia 28.8 million

Syria 21.6 million

United Arab Emirates 5.5 million

Yemen 25.9 million

Total 293.7 million

Note: Estimates from Syria are from 2011.

Source: All figures are estimates from IMF

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Key economic figures for the MENA region

GDP per capita - Purchasing Power Parity (2012)

Bahrain USD 27,908

Egypt USD 6,594

Iran USD 13,072

Iraq USD 4,272

Jordan USD 6,002

Kuwait USD 43,774

Lebanon USD 15,985

Oman USD 27,350

Qatar USD 106,284

Saudi Arabia USD 25,466

Syria USD 3,415

United Arab Emirates USD 48,435

Yemen USD 2,249

Total USD 330.806

Note: Estimates from Syria are from 2011.

Source: All figures are estimates from IMF

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Key economic figures for the MENA region

GDP - Real Growth Rate (2012)

Bahrain 2.0 %

Egypt 1.5 %

Iran 0.4 %

Iraq 11.1 %

Jordan 2.8 %

Kuwait 6.6 %

Lebanon 3.0 %

Oman 5.0 %

Qatar 6.0 %

Saudi Arabia 6.0 %

Syria 5.1 %

United Arab Emirates 2.3 %

Yemen -0.9 %

Note: Estimates from Syria are from 2011.

Source: All figures are estimates from IMF

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Key economic figures for the MENA region

Inflation rate – Average consumer Prices (2012 est.)

Note: Estimates from Syria are from 2011.

Source: All figures are estimates from IMF

Bahrain 1.0 %

Egypt 9.5 %

Iran 21.8 %

Iraq 7.0 %

Jordan 4.9 %

Kuwait 3.5 %

Lebanon 4.0 %

Oman 3.2 %

Qatar 4.0 %

Saudi Arabia 4.8 %

Syria 5.0 %

United Arab Emirates 1.5 %

Yemen 17.1 %

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Danish companies’ entry to the Middle Eastern market The Trade Council is the official Danish Ex-port and Investment Organisation. Its pur-pose is to promote and help Danish compa-nies with matters relating to their export and internationalisation. In the Middle East, we are represented in Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Leba-non, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates, but our network and competences cover several other markets in the region, including Kuwait, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Bah-rain, and Yemen.

Because the Middle East is a very diverse area and presents great opportunities for competitive Danish firms, your business can benefit from the Trade Council’s local knowledge and network. We offer a range of services within the commercial area and can help your business with entry, and conse-quent expansion, to the Middle Eastern markets.

If you or your firm is interested in more than one market in the Middle East, please con-tact Astrid Svitzer Ching Nielsen asthan@um.dk.

If you wish to receive this newsletter, please send an email to dxbhkt@um.dk.

About Us

For more country specific information and contact infor-

mation, please refer to the specific websites:

EGYPT

Danish Embassy - Cairo

http://egypten.um.dk/en.aspx

IRAN

Danish Embassy - Tehran

http://iran.um.dk/en.aspx

LEBANON

Danish Embassy - Beirut

http://libanon.um.dk/en.aspx

SAUDI ARABIA

Including: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Yemen

Danish Embassy - Riyadh

http://saudiarabien.um.dk/en.aspx

SYRIA

Including: Jordan

Danish Embassy - Damascus

http://syrien.um.dk/en.aspx

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Including: Qatar and Iraq

Royal Danish Consulate General - Dubai

http://fae.um.dk/en.aspx