SIMS to exhibit world's latest car models

With less than 30 days to go until the doors officially open at the Jeddah Convention & Exhibition Centre (JCEC) for the Saudi International Motor Show (SIMS), the stage has been set for one of the biggest automobile displays in Saudi Arabia.
The SIMS, organized by Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions (ACE), is an annual venue for car buyers and enthusiasts alike to take a closer look at the latest models and significant concepts from local and international auto makers.
Aiming to assist auto lovers of the region to check out the latest vehicle models and their exclusive features, the 34th SIMS scheduled at JCEC from Dec. 24-28.
"Visitors can expect an impressive array of new convenience, connectivity and safety features from the world's top manufacturers in vehicles that range from sedans to coupes and SUVs, and hatchbacks to convertibles and mini-vans," said Zahoor Siddique, VP, ACE.
Siddique added that Saudi Arabia's auto market is large and growing toward more sophistication, and manufacturers are betting on its long-term growth. "Car sales in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf's largest automotive market, are expected to jump over 30 percent from around 676,000 in 2008 to 88,000 in 2013 as the Kingdom remains economically and commercially resilient to the global downturn," he said.
He added that over $ 1 billion cars are sold in the Kingdom every year and this figure is increasing by about 27 percent annually. This has made the Saudi government place the development of the automotive sector as one of the prime strategies in the strengthening of its industrial (non-oil) base.
During the four-day show, visitors can expect to see saloon and sedan cars, 4x4s and SUVs, quad bikes, motorbikes, spare parts, tires, lubricants, special vehicles, navigation systems, car care products, car audio and video systems, accessories, auto finance, insurance and warranties, automotive magazines and websites.