Automechanika Dubai, the largest international trade exhibition for the automotive aftermarket industry in the Middle East and Africa, is set to host its most substantial edition to date from October 2nd to 4th at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
This milestone 20th edition of Automechanika Dubai is predicted to boast a gathering of over 1,800 exhibitors representing more than 60 nations, converging to present a diverse array of aftermarket products, services, and technologies to a global audience.
Building on its reputation as a pivotal networking platform for the automotive aftersales industry, this year’s exhibition will span across 14 expansive halls at DWTC and include 20 official country pavilions, marking a substantial 63 percent net square-meter growth compared to the 2022 event.
Automechanika Dubai 2023 places a significant emphasis on sustainability, aligning with the growing awareness of electric vehicles (EVs) within the industry. This focus comes in response to the UAE government’s recently revised National Electric Vehicles Policy, which aims to increase the number of electric vehicles on the country’s roads by 50 percent by 2050.
Exciting new features at this year’s event, such as Innovation4Mobility and the Lubricants Technology Conference, will delve into the sector’s efforts to minimise its environmental footprint, exploring related market opportunities, sharing insights, and fostering new partnerships.
Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, Portfolio Director at Automechanika Dubai organisers Messe Frankfurt Middle East, stated, “Over the past two decades, Automechanika Dubai has firmly established itself as the premier networking hub for the Middle East’s automotive aftermarket community. This year, we will have a keen focus on the EV sector, where, in the UAE, demand for EVs is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 30 percent between 2022 and 2028, according to the global electric mobility readiness index published last year.”
The 20th edition of Automechanika Dubai aims to build upon the record-breaking success of the 2022 exhibition, which attracted 1,145 exhibitors and 42,937 visitors from 145 countries. The visitor profile included C-suite professionals and managing directors (32 percent), business development and sales professionals (30 percent), and procurement and purchasing personnel (8 percent).
Automechanika Dubai 2023 will introduce several new event features designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and identify new commercial prospects. On the opening day, attendees will explore emerging trends in climate-neutral, connected, and autonomous mobility as part of Innovation4Mobility, supported by Associate Sponsor HELLA. This event feature will feature expert speakers sharing insights into sustainability-related topics, including EV charging infrastructure, battery recycling, and green investment opportunities.
On the second day of Automechanika Dubai 2023, the Lubricants Technology Conference, supported by Associate Sponsor Chempol, will delve into segment-specific themes such as digitalization, cold blending technologies, and the prevention of corrosion in EV drivetrains.
Other highlights at this year’s event encompass the Automechanika Dubai Awards, recognizing excellence from across the MENA region; Automechanika Academy, an interactive learning and networking hub; AfriConnections, a platform connecting African buyers with global suppliers; Modern Workshop, a program enabling workshops, garages, and repair centers to become future-ready; and the PitStop Challenge, providing automotive professionals an opportunity to showcase their skills under pressure.
The 20th edition of Automechanika Dubai will also encompass eight specialized Product Sections, including Parts & Components, Electronics & Systems, Accessories & Customizing, Tires & Batteries, Car Wash & Care, Oils & Lubricants, Diagnostics & Repair, and Body & Paint, ensuring a tailored experience for all attendees.
“Twenty years in the making, Automechanika Dubai 2023 promises unparalleled business opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors, acting as a catalyst for new collaborations, partnerships, and market expansion within the Middle East and beyond,” added Bilikozen.