The countdown has begun for the inaugural Automechanika 2016, described as Saudi Arabia’s only dedicated automotive aftermarket trade show.

With more than 150 exhibitors signing on, Automechanika Jeddah will span 7,100 sqm of exhibition space when it opens on Jan. 26, at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events.

The three-day exhibition is organised by Messe Frankfurt Middle East in partnership with Saudi-based Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions (ACE), and is the 15th global instalment of Automechanika, a major international automotive trade show brand.

The exhibition is fully booked, the organizers said, adding that rush to participate by international and regional manufacturers is a testament to the positive sentiment that exists in Saudi Arabia’s vast automotive aftermarket.

Research from analysts Frost & Sullivan indicates the Kingdom's demand for commercial vehicle spare parts alone is expected to reach $3.65 billion by 2020, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 10 percent, and comprising 66 percent of the Gulf’s total demand.

With more than 10 million passenger vehicles expected to ply the Kingdom’s roads by 2020, up from the seven million in 2013, the opportunities are plenty for manufacturers of aftermarket spare parts, accessories, components, tires, batteries, systems and electronics.

“It gives us great pleasure to bring Automechanika — the world's premier automotive aftermarket trade event to Saudi Arabia,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East.

“The robust response from international, local and regional exhibitors to this inaugural edition confirms the tremendous potential that exists in the Saudi market, and the need that was felt by the industry for a truly representative trade and networking platform,” Pauwels added.

Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Secretary General Adnan H. Mandourah said hosting the highly recognized trade show brand for the global automotive aftermarket community is indicative of Saudi Arabia’s standing in the auto industry.