More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the ongoing Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara'ee) 2012, which opened last night (March 21) at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, Sakhir.

Organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry, the show was officially opened by His Majesty King Hamad. The event will run up to March 27.

Present at the opening ceremony were His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty and Supreme Council for Women president.

Ministers, Ruling Family members, diplomatic corps, MPs, Shura Council members, municipal councillors and guests also attended.

Despite the event being invitation-only last night, several families flocked to the venue, and were allowed in on directives from the leadership.

The last Mara'ee (Fields) event was held in November 2010 and attracted more than 100,000 visitors.

Technology and science will feature highly in this year's event, showcasing the role it plays in emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture.

A trade exhibition will focus on the provision of products and services relevant to animal farming, agriculture and technology, bringing international, regional and local companies together with a mission to improve animal production and health.

The free event, which will continue until Tuesday and is open from 10am to 8pm, has 150 exhibitors from 32 countries.

The King expressed his appreciation for the efforts exerted in organising the show, which he said reflected the ministry's care and concern for the animal and agriculture sector as well as food security.

"The show this year is unique due to the large participation of local, Arab and international companies," said the King.

He said this presented an opportunity to get abreast of the latest developments experts have made in this sector as well as the technological developments accomplished in the field of animal and agricultural production.

"The event is also an opportunity for exchanging expertise in this field."

The King expressed his admiration for the show, which underscored the ability and competency of Bahrainis in organising and hosting regional, Arab and international exhibitions, conferences and events.

"Two years ago, we didn't expect 100,000 visitors over three days, but this year over six days we are expecting more than double that number," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

"The first show's success was hailed by participants and exhibitors and it placed Bahrain on the map of international specialised exhibitions," he said.

"This year's event is divided into five sections: business, family, birds, aquarium and local farmers to ensure that we meet the needs of everyone. New attractions have been brought in and our show is way advanced than that held before as it has been staged according to indicators and people's needs, besides our exploration of advancements internationally.”

An operetta titled The Journey of a Rider was performed at the event. Pure-bred Bahraini horses, which belong to Royal Stables, were also showcased.

A show for Spanish horses that belong to the Royal Andalusia Equestrian School and another horseriding show performed by French rider Clemens Fifer were also held.

The King then honoured the winners of the show's competitions.

The Royal Stables won the best farm award. The best dog award was won by Al Mozdahir Farm, best falcon was won by Hassan Ali Mabrook Al Ka'abi and best cow by Saeed Abdulkarim Abdulla.

Dr Al Ka'abi presented the King with a commemorative gift before taking him on a tour of the Arabian horses' history exhibition. – TradeArabia News Service