WHY THE MIDDLE EAST? Judging by the success of the 6th Middle East International Motor Show, which took place from 8th - 12th November 2001, all indications are that confidence levels within the region are better than they have ever been before. According to those who participated in the show, the automotive industry is witnessing impressive sales and growth rates ranging from 6% to 100%. In an interview with journalists, the President and Chief Executive of DaimlerChrysler ME said: "The Middle East is an extremely important market for us and we invest well in presenting our products at each and every motor show in the region." This renewed confidence in the automotive market is not unexpected if we bear in the mind the following factors:
With these statistics in mind, we are confident that the 2002 Gulf 4x4 Show will be a great success because the demand for 4x4's in this region is so high. 4x4 vehicles were of course originally intended solely for use in rough terrain and deserts, but it now seems that they are evolving into highly versatile city and country vehicles. The major manufacturers all had 4x4 vehicles on display at the Middle East International Motor Show - Mercedes Benz, Ford, Nissan, Mitsubishi, BMW, Toyota, General Motors and DaimlerChrysler. Each model was fitted with an array of cutting edge internal and external features, indicating that at present power and practicality are equally matched by luxury and comfort. There are a number of reasons why off-road vehicles are growing in popularity in the Middle East. Obviously the environment is a major factor - deserts demand such vehicles, although this is in fact becoming less relevant. Surprisingly, people who have no intention of hitting the dunes are also buying 4x4's in great numbers. It seems that due to the increased comfort and design of these vehicles, the public are regarding them as a practical and affordable alternative to a family saloon car. The 2002 Gulf 4x4 Show will provide the perfect launch pad for introducing the latest cars, design and technology in 4x4 vehicles to the region. High disposable incomes in the UAE offer fantastic opportunities for automobile manufacturers from across the world to present their products to motor enthusiasts from all over the Middle East. Inevitably 2002 could prove to be a tough year for the industry as the effects of a deepening worldwide recession hit the Middle East. Nethertheless the manufacturers are remaining positive and as the Managing Director of BMW Group ME recently observed: "The 4x4 and luxury performance sector will be less affected due to the fact that the more affluent buyers have a better reserve of income in difficult times." |