Emerging airports markets will be awarded for the first time at an event to be held during the upcoming Airport Show 2010 in Dubai.

Twenty-two categories of airports excellence will be honoured during the EMA Awards ceremony, featuring hall of fame, best airport award categories, special awards and best airport technical and IT services providers’ awards.

The Emerging Markets Airport Awards (EMAA) are aimed at encouraging the development of emerging airports markets and recognize great work, dedication and accomplishments in every category, said Raj Menon, head of business development, Arabian Reach, a Dubai-based marketing and promotions company.

The importance of leadership and commitment in these challenging economic times make this recognition, even more significant, he added.

Mohamad Bader-Eddin, show director at Reed Exhibitions, said: “Holding the awards represents an added value to our exhibitors and hosted buyers and constitutes an ideal platform for them to meet with key airport leaders selected by Arabian Reach.”

“There's no doubt we are seeing great growth in emerging airport markets. By 2050, China is planning to have 350 airports and India is to increase its airports to more than 300.”

“EMA Awards will be an excellent tool, allowing airports from across the region and beyond to compete, which will help airports strive to achieve operational excellence and allow businesses and industry leaders to set leads,” he concluded.

It is estimated that by 2020, the value of emerging airports markets will grow to more than $100 billion, including the Middle East, China, India, Russia, CIS and Baltic states, while $64 billion is targeted for new terminal development, refurbishment and rehabilitation of airports around the region.

Airport Show 2010 is taking place from April 25 to 27 at Airport Expo. – TradeArabia News Service