The eighth edition of The Office Exhibition was inaugurated today at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre by Dr Hanif Hassan Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Education.

'With large amounts of construction projects now reaching completion and the commercial sector still expanding, companies are in need of bigger workspaces,' stated exhibition director Sinead Bridgett of dmg world media.

'Furthermore, growth in the public sector has shown a steep rise in fit-outs and refurbishments across the region, including schools, hospitals and universities.'

Testament to the strong demand in the Middle East for world-class office designs and furniture, this year’s event saw sales grow by 60 per cent compared to last year, with total exhibition space increasing by 5,000 sqm.

Organised by dmg world media, the three-day event has attracted major office design and manufacturing companies who are showcasing innovative office product designs and services.

“The Office Exhibition, now the biggest office design and fit-out show in the Middle East, provides an essential platform for local and international companies to develop new contacts and generate business within the region,” said Bridgett.

Running alongside the expo, the brand new Office Talks seminar also commenced today, with industry experts addressing key topics such as sustainability, workplace health and productivity and facilities management.

Also attracting interest from exhibitors and visitors was the Loft Student Design Competition.

Interior design students from the American University in Dubai submitted competition entries last month in the hope of winning an educational trip to Italy. The entries will be judged live at the exhibition and four winners will be announced.-TradeArabia News Service