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Tribune News Network
Doha
For the first time in its 28-year history, INDEX the Middle East's largest interior design event has launched in Qatar.
Qatar Chamber (QC) Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed al Thani and Hassan al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer of Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), officially opened the inaugural exhibition at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre on Monday morning.
They were joined by Omani Ambassador to Qatar HE Najeeb bin Yahya al Balushi, and Italian Ambassador to Qatar HE Pasquale Salzano.
The renowned INDEX brand, which has grown to host exhibitions across the Middle East, Asia and Africa in recent years, is expected to draw more than 3,000 designers to the capital for three days of networking, buying and industry focused seminars that will supply professionals from the commercial, residential and hospitality sectors.
It is supported by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Qatar Chamber, with speakers at its"design talks" discussion series including designers, architects, CEOs and directors from some of the region's biggest firms.
INDEX Qatar Event Director Jaafar Shubber said,"According to our exclusive research with market analysts Ventures, the fit-out and contractor market for interior designers across Qatar will be worth almost $1.5 billion next year. That is a massive amount. We are thrilled to arrive here in a period of such excitement and expansion as Qatar prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 2022."
Director of Exhibitions at QTA Ahmed al Obaidli said,"Hosting and attracting global business events is a key part of our efforts to develop the business events sector, which is considered a priority in the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy. We look forward to seeing more world-class events delivered in this growing industry."
