ADNEC, the new Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, announced today that it had already begun construction of a world-class exhibition complex in Abu Dhabi to benefit the UAE and Middle East markets.The decision to build a new exhibition center for the UAE was driven by an in-depth review of the existing and potential exhibition market. The conclusion reached by the Government of Abu Dhabi is that the demand from visitors and exhibitors has expanded dramatically and significant opportunities exist for new international exhibitions and conferences. In particular, Abu Dhabi is emerging as a unique market and the massive developments that are planned will support a range of significant exhibitions.
The exhibition complex will include 57,000 square metres of gross exhibition floor space, a massive 21,000 square metres visitor concourse and 7,500 square metres of multi-purpose halls. The new center will also feature dedicated conference facilities for 1,200 people, banqueting areas and more than 30 high-specification meeting rooms.
The first phase of the project is already well under way and on schedule for completion by December 2006 to host the internationally recognised IDEX 2007 defence exhibition and conference. Built in the 'U-shape' that has proven so successful in the best venues in the world, the Center will contain a central landscaped plaza for outdoor events.
The focal feature of the complex will be an iconic soaring tower that will curve above the center and look out to the sea. Innovative in its design, the tower is a bold architectural statement that reflects ADNEC's plans to become an internationally recognisable venue. The tower will become the brand that promotes the venue and Abu Dhabi to the world.
ADNEC Chairman is His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan.
The location for this center was carefully selected: close to the major hotel developments and a short distance from Abu Dhabi Airport. The site is only 35 minutes from Jebel Ali, Dubai. The surrounding road network has been planned to allow for easy access and exit to the center and multi-storey car parks will provide ample capacity for visitor and exhibitors.
The area surrounding the new center is scheduled for immediate development and will feature hotels, serviced apartments for 2000 people, 17 office towers, a marina development and a retail zone with over 100 outlets.
As part of the development, the existing Sheikh Zayed Grandstand will be refurbished and linked to the new halls. Within it will be offices, food courts and a range of companies servicing the exhibition industry.
