Dubai Airshow organiser F&E Aerospace is expecting to attract more business aviation service providers and manufacturers than ever before to the Middle East Business Aviation exhibition and conference, from 7 to 9 December 2010.

Organised on behalf of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), the last MEBA show in 2008 attracted some 250 exhibitors from 30 countries and over 5,500 visitors, with more than US$1.5billion worth of deals struck.

The fourth running of the series in December promises an increase in exhibitor numbers to some 350, judging by a strong interest in the event among business aviation companies, and commitments to date.

First-time exhibitors include Honeywell, AN Aviation and Rizon Jet, which are joining returning organisations such as Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), Jet Aviation, Sikorsky, and Al Jaber Aviation.

Up to 85 business aircraft will be displayed on the outdoor static aircraft park, which will also feature more company pavilions than in previous shows.

Alison Weller, Managing Director of F&E Aerospace, commented: “With a recent report predicting an annual growth rate for the Middle East business aviation market of more than 6% over the next 10 years, the region will surely see an increase in business aviation service providers to cater to this demand".

A report from Frost & Sullivan said that Saudi Arabia holds some 37% of the market potential, in the long-run, followed by the UAE, with nearly 24%.

The expected number of business aircraft to be delivered in the Middle East will be approximately 458 by 2018, and the number of aircraft expected to be delivered in Saudi Arabia alone will be about 154, the report added.