JEDDAH, 6 December 2004 — Live action and family zones featuring radio controlled car-racing displays by Jeddah Aviation Hobby Club, off-road test-drives and driving displays by a stunt team stole the limelight of the six-day Saudi International Motor Show, which ended over the weekend.
Transport Minister Dr. Jabarah Al-Suraisry toured the show and described it as one comparable to the best worldwide.
Hummer, Lamborghini, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen and Yamaha launched their 2005 models at the show in a “launch and reveal” event on the opening day.
Kept under wraps until the launch, covers were ceremoniously drawn back to reveal new models to rapturous applause. In a first ever for Saudi Arabia, Mitsubishi used computer controlled lasers, lights, multimedia and electronic hoists to reveal their completely new Grandis model, and repeated the display for visitors many times each day.
The six-day event attracted around 110,000 visitors. Many exhibitors said that the attendance was more than they had anticipated — and in some cases more than they had planned for. “The upgrades to the layout which was much more open this year, contributed to the free movement of visitors. The atmosphere and appearance was on a par with motor shows worldwide,” said Nikitas Daskatakis, director — premium brands for importer Al-Jomaih Automotive Company.
“Such was the success of the show that several regular participants were unable to take part this year because there just wasn’t any spare space,” said Ian Bennett, director of operations for Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions, the organizers of the show. “To avoid a repeat in 2005, the organizers met with members of the Automotive Liaison Group and participants during the show, resulting in many agreements and an almost full hall for next year even before the 2004 show had closed its doors,” he added. The 27th edition of the Saudi International Motor Show will be held from Nov. 13 to 18, 2005.
