JEDDAH, 15 March 2004 — COMDEX, the computer fair currently at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Center, saw a large turnout of IT professionals and businessmen on its second day yesterday.
The interest was on accessories, software, audiovisual equipment, software books, and communication equipment.
Internet provider as well as dealers in everything from legal software to memory cards, modems, monitors and multiprocessors were all seen busy explaining the technical side of their products to visitors.
Samir Photographic Supplies (SPS), the sole distributor of Kodak and many other multinational company products in the Kingdom, has showcased consumer imaging products and services, professional imaging products, office and medical imaging products and document management products and services. “Our latest products used in presentations at seminars and conferences are being increasingly sought after,” said Waddah El Rayyes, national manager, presentation technologies and projects division, SPS.
Modern Electronics (ME) is showcasing Sony products and brands like Wega, Handycam, PlayStation, Cybershot, VAIO, Xplod and Walkman, said Marwan Zamkah, general manager of Modern Electronics-Sony. Saudi youths were seen trying their hand at the latest PlayStation equipment provided at the Sony stand. With its four branches, 16 service centers and 19 showrooms aimed at reinforcing the presence of the Japanese electronics giant across the Kingdom, ME is part of Al Faisaliah Group.
Microsoft wants at a 30 percent annual growth in the Kingdom, Khaled W. Al-Dhaher, who recently assumed charge as general manager of Microsoft Arabia, told reporters.
The company has drawn up a plan of reinvesting SR20 million to SR25 million in community welfare and charity organizations. Training of young Saudi women and serving the interests of those with special needs in a bid to make them self-dependent are included in its plan.
The company has been involved in many programs and projects that support disability organizations, a hospital for the treatment and rehabilitation of narcotics addicts and an organization that cares for gifted persons. “We’ve achieved a high percentage of Saudization in our 75-member work force across the Kingdom,” he said.