WAM Dubai, 28th April 2012 (WAM) -- The latest technology and innovative solutions for airport security will be under the spotlight at the Airport Show 2012 as the regional airports are increasingly focused on enhanced security, more efficient operations and enhanced constituent service to meet the ever-increasing volume of passengers and cargo.

Mohammed Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), said: "No matter how sleek and contemporary its architecture and design, an airport is always going to be judged by its security, service standards and the capability to handle peak periods and irregular operations. For the airport operators, it's crucial to alleviate these concerns by adopting innovative technology. Airports are seeking to improve security, find new ways of streamlining efficiencies, creating new loyalty solutions and offering enhanced services." Airport Show 2012 will be held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman of Emirates Airline and Group. Supported by leading international industry associations and local government authorities, it will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center (DICEC) from May 22 to 24 with the participation of over 178 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from over 60 countries.

Internationally-renowned technology services companies from over 28 countries, including Germany, France, China, Denmark, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the US to name a few, will be displaying a wide range of innovative airport security products at the show.

Mr. Mohamad Bader-Eddin, Show Director at Reed Exhibitions Middle East, organizers of the show, said: "As the airport operators are working towards increasing security, productivity and profitability of their facilities, there is immense business growth potential for the companies. Most of the GCC airports are in a fast-paced, multi-billion dollar expansion mode, requiring deployment of the cutting-edge and futuristic products and solutions to handle the phenomenal growth." The Airport Show, he said, will be an ideal platform for the airport operators to explore the current and future products and services in terms of airport security while providing convenient networking opportunities for both the key government officials and decision-makers and the technology companies.

According to IATA projections, the UAE, Kuwait and Jordan will be among the top 10 fastest growing countries, with the UAE projected to rank 7th for handling over 82.3 million international passenger by 2014.

The capacity of the UAE airports will be increased to handle 250 million passengers by 2020. Dubai International alone is expected to spend $8bn in the capacity expansion. Dubai is expected to handle about 98 million passengers by 2020.

A report by Frost '&' Sullivan said $86bn will be spent by Middle East airports in expansion plans until 2025. According to the Middle East Airport Security Market Assessment report, the spending in this sector is estimated to reach $57.7m by 2015.

Brig. Pilot Ahmed bin Thani, Head of Airports Security, Dubai, said: "The security is now part of the solution and not just part of the problem. In today's complex global environment, establishing and maintaining safety and security throughout the airport is the single most important management priority. Dubai Airports have proved to be successful in utilizing the best of technology that enhanced its performance and capabilities. Airport Show is very important platform for the decision-makers to explore the latest technology for enabling a better future." The potential that the region holds for the global companies is reflected well with the last month's US$133 million contract awarded by Qatar for the supply of security scanning systems at the New Doha International Airport due for completion in early 2013.

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WAM/TF