Delegations from 40 countries took part in the First Jeddah International Islamic Trade Fair, which was opened by Makkah Governor Prince Abdul Majeed.

Held under the patronage of Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Premier and Commander of the National Guard, the expo aimed to boost trade between Islamic countries. It was co-sponsored by the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and held at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

JCCI secretary-general Majed Al Kasabi said the event provided unrivalled access to government officials and business houses from Muslim economies and provided information about investment opportunities in the Muslim world.

National stands showcased a range of items from traditional products to sophisticated state-of-the-art technology.

The trade fair was organised by the Jeddah Marketing Board, an organisation set up by the JCCI to promote Jeddah as a centre of trade and commerce and attract foreign investment.

"The trade fair is a unique celebration of our Muslim values. It will demonstrate the strength and range of Muslim economies and will show the world that Islamic countries are an economic force to be reckoned with," Majed Al Kasabi at its inauguration.