GCC sports, fitness sector logs record growth

31/08/2016 05:18 AST

Leading international sports and fitness brands are set to dominate next month’s The Leisure Show Dubai 2016 in a clear reflection of soaring regional interest in healthy living.

More than a third of all exhibitors at the key industry event slated on Sept. 17-19, 2016 at the Dubai World Trade Centre will showcase the latest innovations in sporting technologies and equipment expected to take the exercise world by storm.

Visitors can get to grips with everything from portable surfing machines (Wavesurfer), to 21st century takes on traditional bodybuilding methods (Technogym), all the way through to underwater exercise bikes (AquaFit).

Gary Williams, Event Director of The Leisure Show Dubai 2016 at dmg events, said: “We have had a surge in stand bookings this year from brands seeking to make the most of Dubai’s booming fitness scene. Last year sports and fitness firms accounted for one in every five exhibitors at the show. This time around, 36% of those attending will be exercise and training based.

That is a massive leap. Health awareness is at an all-time high in Dubai and this is reflected in the leisure pursuits of not only those who live here, but visitors and tourists too.”

Dubai currently has more than 130 registered training facilities and fitness clubs, employing over 2,000 REPs UAE certified trainers.

Elite fitness Coach Danil Bornventure from FittGROUP Middle East, The Leisure Show’s Activations Partner for 2016, said: “Dubai is currently experiencing a real boom in not just fitness but also sports and overall health and wellness activities in general. We see it first hand in the gym and training business with people from all walks of life wanting to get fit and be fit. We also see it in the sports business with the increased numbers of highly qualified and well known professionals who are operating in the region. The public want more – whether long or short term residents or tourists.”

Exhibitors from across the world will be appearing at The Leisure Show, displaying the finest in outdoor, resort, leisure and amusement products and programs to thousands of the region’s leading buyers.

Specialist firms will showcase a host of innovative new ranges at the popular industry event – the bulk of which are from the world of sport and exercise as a direct consequence of growing local interest in staying in shape and living a healthy lifestyle.

Nasser Obeid, Managing Director at Johnson Health Tech, said: “Exhibitors such as us use The Leisure Show as a launch pad for our latest equipment.

As an example, we are this year launching the industry’s latest technology in cardiovascular machines that integrate wearable devices that track your workout, virtual active programs to keep you motivated, and even social media access, all while you train.”

Daniel Marchwinski, Fitness General Manager at popular retailer Sun & Sand Sports, added: “The Leisure Show is a great platform for brands, dealers and distributors but also for potential customers. This is the best opportunity to see different brands and try out the functionality of the different machines. There is no other show that offers you these possibilities in the Middle East.”

Saudi Gazette