VISITORS to The Big 5 show in Dubai will be able to observe and experience first-hand new developments from some of world leaders in engineering technology, when the huge German contingent showcases its high-quality products and services targeted at the construction sector.

Some 165 German companies will be exhibiting at the German Pavilion, which covers 3,500 sq m and is located in the Zabeel Hall. As in previous years, the German delegation represents one of the biggest national groups. It is sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and supported by the VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau), the German Engineering Federation.

“Trendsetting and unique construction projects like those of the Arabian Peninsula require the most advanced equipment and building materials. Key words in this context are high-capacity, reliability, efficiency, maximum availability, sustainability and green building,” says Yvonne Heidler, a spokeswoman for the VDMA.

Many high-tech machines are already in operation at local construction sites, she says, adding that The Big 5 show allows visitors to keep abreast of the latest products.

The German pavilion will be a fount of information for all who are looking for products and technologies to meet their specific requirements and/or seeking co-operation with the German industry, she adds.

“The German team is looking forward to welcoming visitors at their stand and helping them to get in touch with business partners,” says Heidler.

After the 2008 economic crisis that affected business volumes worldwide, trade between the Gulf region and Germany has been on the rise again. In 2010, Germany’s total exports to the region amounted to €17 billion ($22.73 billion), which is an increase of 24 per cent compared to 2009. Of this, machines accounted for a 19 per cent share, which translates to €3.2 billion ($4.28 billion) in value.

“After the US, Germany currently is the second largest supplier of machinery to the Gulf region,” she points out. “Construction equipment and building material machinery, in particular, is the most sought after, but so are materials handling technology, valves for domestic and industrial applications, power systems or air-conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration technology.”

With 3,000 members, the VDMA is the biggest association of an industry within Europe and supports and represents the interests of about 300 companies which manufacture machinery and plants to be used in the construction, building material, natural stone, ceramics and glass industry.