Global mobile application sales and downloads are forecast to reach $15.65 billion by 2013 and Middle East operators and device manufacturers are preparing for a telecoms windfall.

As the region's consumers discover the concept and access the increasing amount of applications and content, many of the established stores are focusing their attention on the Mena region.

Untapped potential, the expansion of 3G networks and increasing use of smart phones are leading to a dramatic rise in the demand for mobile applications and value added services in the Middle East.

According to a recent industry report from Interactive Data Corporation, the worldwide smart phone market grew by more than 56 per cent in the first quarter of 2010.

Over a longer period, the Middle East and Africa is set to be among the top global smart phone markets, with a sustained compound annual growth rate of 39 per cent for the next four years.

To reflect the importance and help develop these markets, this year's 30th anniversary of Gitex Technology Week is introducing Gitex Mobile Apps and Content World, a dedicated platform for the mobile applications and entertainment market.

For handset manufacturers, mobile network operators and developers, Gitex Mobile Apps and Content World will bridge the telecommunications and consumer electronics market, providing opportunities to gain marketing exposure to the B2B and B2C audience across the Middle East.

'The Middle East is well known for its demand for the latest mobile hardware and software, and apps and content are at the cutting edge of this highly lucrative sector,' said Gitex organiser Dubai World Trade Centre chief executive officer Helal Saeed Almarri.

Gitex Mobile Apps and Content World will also present a series of open panel debates with industry experts exploring apps and content from an international and regional perspective. – TradeArabia News Service