Gitex Shopper offers bargains to consumers

Dubai: Gitex Shopper and Consumer Electronics Expo 2009 will be open for two full weekends to give visitors more time to take advantage of the exclusive deals and promotions on a wide variety of technology.

Now in its 19th year, the eight-day extravaganza held at Airport Expo Dubai from October 17 to 24 will bring together the biggest names in consumer electronics.

For a Dh20 entry fee per person, shoppers can enjoy a range of promotions from mobile phones to laptops and computer accessories, as well as the latest leisure and lifestyle gadgets

According to research by Business Monitor International, the consumer electronics market will grow from $2.9 billion (Dh10.64 billion) last year to $4.5 billion by 2013.

The research attributes this growth to the popularity of devices such as 3G mobile handsets, smartphones, mobile computers and LCD and plasma TV sets.

"Gitex Shopper has become synonymous with great choice, quality and value for money," said Trixee Loh, Senior Vice-President of the Dubai World Trade Centre, and organiser of the show.

"The show is very family-oriented and the weekends are our most popular days, so this year we are providing more opportunities for people to take advantage of all the great offers."

Recognising the opportunities for growth in the Middle East, many of the world's leading consumer electronic brands will be participating this year, including JVC, and the show's gold sponsor hp.

Gitex Shopper attracts a wide ranging audience that includes IT professionals, technology enthusiasts, students, end-users as well as regional traders.

"Normally what you are looking for in the shopper is new items that are not in the store yet but are going to be available for the suggested retail price - not anything overpriced. So the stores will get what Gitex offers in a few months, but we as shoppers have it now," commented Tony DePrato, an IT coordinator.

The expo annually experiences a high student turnout.

"This year I look forward to attending [Gitex Shopper] to take advantage of the deals and promotions," said Lenwick Hans D'Souza, an undergraduate student.