The demand for high-end broadcast equipment and solutions is on the rise in the Middle East as the sector looks set for growth, according to Reza Nikfar CEO, United Broadcast & Media Solutions (UBMS).

Nikfar confirmed that UBMS will be present, alongside other leading players, at the upcoming industry event, Middle East Broadcast Solutions (MEBS), scheduled for November 17-19 2009 in Abu Dhabi, in association with twofour54.

He said that 2009 has held steady for UBMS, and that 2010 looks likely to be another solid year as the demand for quality equipment across the region, and in the UAE specifically, is on the rise.

“The UAE is gathering the momentum to play its role as a global broadcast production hub. This is fast on the heels of a decade of heady growth in the corporate audio and visual broadcast sectors, particularly for post-production demands,” said Nikfar. UBMS is considered to be a forerunner in end-to-end solutions for the broadcast, and production-& post-production industry in the region.

MEBS’ Neil Manwaring, Managing Director, Nexus Global Events supported Nikfar’s observations: “The Middle East is pegged as one of five fastest growing markets in broadcast, alongside China, Eastern Europe, India and Latin America, and it makes logical sense that the equipment and solutions sector will also mushroom,” he said.

Manwaring’s prediction is that the region will surpass the average 6.6 percent global industry growth trend. These observations are mirrored in a recent report from the International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers that suggests the Middle East will lead the sector’s global growth from 2010.

He also stressed that MEBS is set to showcase a new model for B2B exhibitions and said that Nexus will encourage the gathering of primary research at the event, which runs alongside Middle East Television (METV).
“The duo events are designed to focus on broadcast solutions and content creation. Content is in great demand, in particular Arabic language content, and with the association of twofour54 we are committed to energising the industry by showcasing the emerging opportunities.”

Nikfar applauded the Nexus ambition to ensure that the double-billing MEBS-METV become a platform for ‘generative conversation, and not just another event based on static exhibition stands’.
“In the Middle East, the importance and efficiency of trade shows has remained constant, even during the downturn. However, as markets shift so does the need for new channels and models that create high energy and relevant output.

“UBMS is ready to help drive this momentum with a strong presence at MEBS where we will look to strategically develop personal contacts and showcase new solutions by encouraging interaction, particularly with emerging talent. Our aim is to add new dimensions to this event,” he said.

Nikfar also confirmed that UMBS has readied itself to address any challenges that may arise in the face of growth so that these can be tackled from the outset.