The first natural health industry show in the Middle East has been scheduled for October this year.
Natural Products Expo, Arabia, not related to Penton Media's Expo shows, will take place in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and is aiming to attract suppliers, manufacturers, policy makers, practitioners of alternative medicine and a number of international visitors.
The UAE seems to be making moves to develop the natural health industry with the Government, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, recently setting up the Zayed Complex for Herbal Research and Traditional Medicine, recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO). Dubai has also unveiled plans for a $1.8 billion 'Health City', which will incorporate natural spas, health resorts and a centre integrating eastern medicines and alternative health programmes.
Show organisers Apex Media have received patronage from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health of UAE, and participation of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) and International Alliance of Dietary Food Supplement Associations (IADSA).
Different sections will cater for natural cosmetics, food supplements, organic foods and herbs and spices. There will also be interactive sessions and events on ayurveda and healthy living.
Natural Products Expo, Arabia runs from 13-15 October 2003 at the "Al Boom Tourist Village" in Dubai.