[SatNews] CABSAT MENA, the leading digital media event in the region, and third largest on the global calendar, is expecting to draw record crowds this year as the Middle East and North Africa establishes its position as one of the most lucrative broadcast markets in the world.

Investors worldwide are eager to tap into a regional sector catering to more than 430 million media-hungry MENA residents – a figure which is set to rise to 700 million by 2050 according to the research company, Population Reference Bureau – keen to experience the latest in new technologies, such as HD and 3D. CABSAT MENA & Satellite MENA will showcase the latest innovations in digital media, including recording equipment, HD & 3D TV and cinema, IPTV/ Mobile TV, content creation, management and delivery technology for every stage of the workflow process.

Now in its 17th year, the event takes place from February 8 thru 10, 2011, at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and is expected to attract thousands of exhibitors and visitors from the US, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. With almost 90 percent of the exhibiting space already sold out, CABSAT MENA is set to welcome leading companies from around the world, including: Avid; For.A; Grass Valley; Hitachi; Panasonic; Quantel; Sony; Tek Signals; The Vitec Group; Thompson Broadcast; and twofour54.

Satellite MENA, which has now become an integral component in Dubai World Trade Centre’s extensive portfolio, caters to broadcasters, telcos, governments and military buyers looking for the world’s latest technologies from VSAT systems to uplink and downlink facilities. The satellite capacity leasing market has been growing at an annual rate of 4.2 percent globally, with annual revenues for this segment to exceed US$ 650 million by 2018, according to Northern Sky Research. The MENA region is predicted to see the largest FSS Ka-band demand in the world over the next two years. Both events will host dedicated conference sessions featuring international industry experts who will offer a unique insight into the scope of new technologies.