Gitex KSA 2010, a premier B2B networking event and leading consumer ICT showcase opened today (April 25) with over 450 companies from more than 17 countries, showcasing their products and services.

The event, which runs concurrently with Saudi Communications 2010, is also introducing a selection of new technology innovations, including Rapid Deployment Units, Alternate Wind & Solar Energy Solution for powering sites, Fibre Optic Turnkey Services, GIS, signalling and telecommunications solutions, BTS Monitoring Devices, interactive technology services, and theatre rigging systems.

IT spending in Saudi Arabia has been projected to increase to around SR18.1 billion by 2013. Likewise, the kingdom has the biggest IT market in the region, with a forecast value of SR13.87 billion in 2010 which is expected to rise to SR19.5 billion by 2014, according to the Saudi Arabia Information Technology Report published recently by Business Monitor International.

Moreover, internet content development and telecommunications equipment collectively offer one of the brightest opportunities for local, regional and international suppliers as the number of internet users in Saudi Arabia continues to increase, rising to 9.8 million people or 38.5 per cent of the population in the first nine months of 2009.

'The diverse selection of premium-quality products and services provides trade visitors and buyers with a wider range of choices and greater flexibility to explore the best solutions for their respective ICT requirements,' stated Mohammed Al Hussaini, deputy general manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company, organiser of the event.

Saudi Communications 2010, which is sponsored by the Saudi Telecom Company (STC), will offer a complete showcase of telecommunications equipment, systems, networking, IT solutions, software/programs, office automation, PCs and laptops, mobile phones, multimedia devices, educational tools and digital entertainment solutions.

Over 100,000 local and foreign visitors are attending the event, ranging from potential buyers, deal sealers, major business owners, IT professionals and governmental decision makers, said Al Hussaini.-TradeArabia News Service