Satellite TV for 65 million MENA homes by 2016
Cabsat is bringing together the most dynamic – and lucrative – broadcast markets in the world. According to the latest research by Informa Telecoms and Media, there are 80 million television households in the Middle East and North Africa market. Today satellite television reaches 65% of them, but by 2016 that proportion will increase to 80%.
There are more than 500 free-to-air channels in the region, with the big players pushing ever harder. Orbit Showtime Network recently invested in strengthening its local content, and Sky News Arabia is set to launch from a new production base.
Outside broadcast operators like Al Kass and Live have built new fleets with the latest equipment and working practices. Twofour54 in Abu Dhabi is actively marketing its production and post-production capabilities across Europe as well as to local producers.
Many analysts believe this is not just an exciting time to be in broadcast and media in the region, it is a vital time for long-term success. The dynamism the industry feels will be reflected in the 18th Cabsat exhibition when it returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 28 February – 1 March, 2012.
With almost 90% of the exhibiting space already sold out, Cabsat is set to welcome leading companies from around the world, including: Arabsat, Astrium, Avid, Canon, Dubai Studio City, Eutelsat S.A., For.A Company Limited, Harris Systems, Hitachi Broadcast, Humax, Live, Mediacast, Panasonic, Sony, Salam Media Cast, twofour54 and Al Yahsat.
Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre, the event organiser said: “The broadcast and satellite technology market in the Middle East and North Africa is not only extremely attractive in terms of business opportunities, but also in terms of innovation. Often we see rapidly emerging markets as the catalyst for new technology, helping to set the industry agenda. Cabsat has become one of the world’s most influential platforms for investors and developers, and as the event continues to grow, it increases its spectrum of exhibitors and visitors. We have seen greater participation not just in terms of sectors within the industry, but across a far wider geographical reach.”
In 2012, the Cabsat exhibition will be 15% larger than last year, filling the new Sheikh Saeed Halls and expanding into the Arena with satellite dishes, outside broadcast equipment and other demonstrations. Held in conjunction with Cabsat, the satellite section of the show, launched four years ago, has become the industry networking platform to explore business opportunities, formulate strategies and create partnerships for video, voice, data and IP communications over satellite.
Cabsat 2012 will run from 28 February – 1 March, 2012 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The exhibitions are strictly for trade and business only. Visitors under the age of 18 will not be permitted entry
