The Wellness and Spas Middle East exhibition is set to be firmly established as the largest exhibition of its kind in the Middle East, fueled by the upsurge of 11.2 million medical tourists expected to arrive in the UAE, generating Dhs7bn for the UAE's flourishing tourism industry by 2010, according to market research.

A report issued recently by the information centre of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce (ADCCI) predicted that the country's medical tourism will grow by 15% annually, in line with the increase of tourists' demand on this segment of the tourism industry.

'The Wellness and Spas Middle East exhibition, organized in tandem with Beautyworld Middle East will capitalize on this new development and further expand in the coming years,' said Eckhard Pruy, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, organizers of both these exhibitions. 'As the UAE becomes a leading destination for medical tourism in the Gulf, Wellness and Spas Middle East will be the ideal platform for manufacturers and suppliers of products, equipment and services wishing to tap into this growing sector of the tourism business'.

To be held from May 18 to 20 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wellness and Spas Middle East is an international trade fair for the professional spa and wellness industry, presenting exhibitors from over 25 countries showcasing the latest products, services, trends and solutions for the spa, fitness and wellness industries from all over the world.