MEBA 2012 confirmed at Al Maktoum International Airport

The Middle East Business Aviation show (MEBA) organiser, F&E Aerospace, has confirmed that the next edition of the event will be held at Dubai's Al Maktoum International Airport – Dubai World Central, from 11 to 13 December 2012.

The previous MEBA show in 2010 attracted 6,200 visitors from 77 countries, a 13 per cent increase over the previous show in 2008, and included 156 media professionals representing 76 media outlets from 14 countries.

More than 500 VIPS attended, including members of the region’s ruling royal families, plus other key buyers and buying influencers.

MEBA 2010 displayed 53 business aircraft and a total of 338 exhibitors from 33 countries, including business aircraft manufacturers, service providers and suppliers to the industry, in addition to 15 Fixed Base Operations (FBOs).

Michele Van Akelijen, aerospace director for F&E Aerospace, said: “Dubai is the aviation hub of the Middle East, making access easy for exhibitors and visitors alike to come together at the region’s newest and biggest airport complex, Dubai World Central, for the fifth edition of MEBA, which is guaranteed to be bigger and better than ever.”

MEBA is produced by Dubai Airshow organiser, F&E Aerospace, on behalf of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA).

In its recent forecast, MEBAA has stated that the number of business aircraft in the region is expected to grow from the current 453 to 1,330 by 2019 and, while it’s currently valued at US$493 million, it is expected to grow to more than US$1 billion by 2018.

Ali Al Naqbi, founding chairman of MEBAA, said: “MEBA began as a conference for the association’s members a day before the 2005 edition of the Dubai Airshow and it is fitting that it remains in the city. I look forward to seeing our regular exhibitors and to welcoming newco