An innovative feature of the Gitex Dubai 2000 is the Virtual Expo.

Under a deal between the DWTC and Expocentric.com the Gitex Dubai Virtual Expo will be launched using state-of-the-art 3D interactive exhibition technology. Gitex is now the first information technology exhibition in the world to be using such a technology.

Some of the leading IT companies, including Oracle, IBM, Compaq, Acer, Mindware, Etisalat, Dubai Internet City, Fujitsu, Forefront Technology, Arabia OnLine and Sony, have confirmed their participation by selecting the top of the range stands in premium sites.

"The excellent response we have got from exhibitors of the on-the-ground show for the virtual Gitex is indicative of the high propensity in the region to embrace path breaking technologies," Annie Hayes, exhibitions manager, DWTC, says.

He continues: "Dubai is surging ahead in the use of IT tools in almost all walks of life and the DWTC has been the first in the Middle East to deploy an interactive 3D technology to make Gitex go virtual in the real sense of the term."

"We are delighted with the positive reaction to the virtual exhibition and the immediate response from the Gitex 2000 exhibitors," says Stephen Moore, CEO of Expocentric.com. "DWTC have first mover position in the Middle East by launching the first 3D interactive exhibition to extend the international reach of their show. The fact that so many exhibitors have immediately signed up for upgraded stands shows how quickly they have appreciated that this technology will help reach new markets, allowing visitors from all over the world to e-ttend their exhibition stand, as well as attend on-the-ground show," Moore adds.

The Virtual Expo will be held from October 18 to December 17, 2000, extending the visiting period to nine weeks and enabling pre-viewing and post-viewing of the show - a significant business advantage for exhibitors and convenience for visitors.

The DWTC have been quick to recognise the potential of the virtual exhibition to reach wider audiences.

A large number of pre-registered visitors to the Gitex are unable to attend in person when the actual event comes around. The virtual show allows them to e-ttend over a duration of 60 days, any time of day or night - from wherever they are in the world.

The virtual show will also incorporate exhibitors from the retail event, Gitex Computer Shopper, giving visitors to the trade show an additional opportunity to purchase directly from exhibitors using the exhibitions secure e-commerce facility.