Sharjah International Automobile Show raring to go

The 10th International Auto Show (IAS) will kick off in October with an action-packed schedule for families and car enthusiasts alike.

The exhibition, taking place at Expo Centre Sharjah between 14 and 18 October 2010, will feature leading manufacturers and distributors as well as unique interactive features. Show highlights include the first Middle East Motor Awards and a state of the art 4×4 driving course by Off-Road Zone. The track will include an extreme rock driving track, complete with artificial wadis, log drives and a RC Racer Zone.

“The show aims to complement other auto shows in the region rather than try to compete against them,” said Saif Al Midfa, Director General of Expo Centre Sharjah.

“With the latest manufacturers’ models, custom cars, SUV demonstrations and a hands-on driving experience, we want to focus on Emiratis and Arab nationals, young and old. Having said that, we also plan to have a vintage car rally with vehicles provided by the Sharjah Classic Car Museum, which will appeal to everybody,” added Al Midfa.

The show will span 58,000sq m of indoor and outdoor space and is supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Emirates Motor Sports Federation. There will be a number of visitor-focused initiatives, including safety, which will be one of this year’s main themes. Instructors will give demonstrations and offer driving tips to visitors in a purpose-built area.

“With the prevalence of accidents on the UAE’s roads, safety has become a prime concern for the authorities and drivers alike. Our experienced instructors will be on-hand to educate drivers, not only about how to drive safely, but on the importance of using safety belts for children, which will hopefully help to make our roads safer and cut down on the number of unnecessary injuries inside cars,” said Al Midfa.

The first Middle East Motor Awards 2010 will be held on the first day of the show, judged by a panel of 12 senior motoring journalists, representing 7 countries from across the Middle East. There will be 10 categories, including Best Luxury Car, Best SUV and Best Saloon Car, culminating in the prestigious Car of the Year. There will also be a special hybrid category.

As a one-off showcase, the Middle East Motor Tuning Show (MEMTS) 2010 will also run alongside the International Auto Show, featuring the Custom Design Cup, an entertainment area and an array of companies showcasing tuning and modifying equipment. In addition, MEMTS will host a business area with a full seminar and conference programme for manufacturers and regional distributors.

“The International Automobile Show is the Middle East’s most popular bi-annual auto exhibition for car lovers and enthusiasts and hosts some of the finest automakers from across the globe. The show attracts car lovers and auto enthusiasts in large numbers, not only from the UAE but from across the Middle East and with events for all ages we are looking forward to a success show this year,” said Al Midfa.