Gitex 2006 opens today at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre with more than 3,000 companies from more than 60 countries participating in the Middle East's premier information technology show.

The 26th edition of the event, collocated with the new Telecoms exhibition, Gulfcomms will reflect the latest advancements in the ICT industry including revolutionary products and innovations

Middle East is expected to spend more with the governments across the region keen to bring in the latest technology. Various government and private sector organisations have been gearing up for the advent of fresh and innovative technologies that are ushered in every year during Gitex.

Latest estimates from international market research firm IDC predict that worldwide end users will spend $1.2 trillion on information technology in 2006 and IT spending will increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6 per cent to reach $1.5 trillion in 2010. In the region, the UAE and Saudi Arabia account for 77 per cent of the Gulf's current annual IT spend of Dh18.12 billion. Industry estimates show that Middle East and North Africa (MENA) IT market is set to grow from $ 6.9 billion in 2003 to $13.4 billion by 2008.

New for this year is Gulfcomms — an exclusive event to focus on the region's burgeoning telecommunications sector. The exhibition, held in the newly built 15,000 sqm Zabeel Hall, aims to bring together some of the world's largest and most innovative companies in the telecommunications sector, including operators and specialists in mobile communications, network development, satellite applications, IP technology and infrastructure solutions.