Dubai, UAE: Dubai’s hardware and tools trade was valued at AED5.07 billion in 2016, with the USA, China, Italy, Germany, and India, the Emirate’s top five trading partner countries of construction-related equipment and machinery for the year.

According to figures released by the Dubai Customs today (22 May), Dubai imported AED3.6 billion worth of hardware and tools last year, while exports and re-exports into neighbouring countries were valued at AED1.467 billion.

The USA maintains its position as Dubai’s number one trading partner country, with hardware and tools trade between the two valued at AED808 million last year – 18 per cent of the total figure. China was next, with AED757 million worth of trade (15 per cent), followed by Italy (AED433 million), and Germany (AED357 million).

India also snuck into the top five, with the South Asian powerhouse trading AED 276 million worth of hardware and tools with Dubai in 2016. Together, the top five countries accounted for 52 per cent (AED2.631 billion) of all Dubai’s hardware and tools trade in 2016.

Plenty of manufacturers from these countries are also among the 166 exhibitors out in force at Hardware + Tools Middle 2017, which opened doors for the 18th time today at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The annual three-day event is the region’s only exhibition dedicated to tools, hardware, materials and machinery, representing a broad spectrum of segments within the construction and technical industries. It was opened by His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority.

“Hardware + Tools Middle East is an ideal interactive business development and trade platform for international brands looking to gain traction in the wider MEA region,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, the organiser of Hardware + Tools Middle East.

“A new development this year is the Tool It! Challenge, where we’ve invited contracting and fit-out firms, construction companies, or workshop owners, to nominate their most skilled technicians for an intensive test of will, as they grind, drill, and cut their way to glory among industry peers.

“The competition features 48 technicians and comprises three categories: Woodwork Routing, Screw Driving, and Metal Working. We wanted to recognise and reward the hard working men that are a crucial component of any successful project, while at the same time underline the importance of having top quality dependable tools in order to ensure the safety of the worker and the workplace,” added Pauwels.

Among the headline exhibitors this week at Hardware + Tools Middle East 2017 are Bosch Power Tools and Wiha from Germany, Hitachi Power Tools and Nitto Kohki from Japan, and US-headquartered manufacturer 3M.

Central Motors & Equipment (CC&M) is the exclusive UAE distributor of Bosch Power Tools, and is launching its latest range of German manufactured equipment aimed at contracting and fit-out firms, construction companies, or workshops across the region.

“The UAE is a global investment hub in the Middle East, with tremendous developments underway which require professional and durable tools to ensure the high standards of projects the country is undergoing is maintained,” said Ismaeel Hassen, CM&E’s General Manager.

“We bring to Hardware + Tools Middle East 2017 the expertise of Germany’s Bosch Power Tools with CM&E’s customer-focused vision and decades of experience in the market. Plus, we cater to a wide range of clients from large corporations with our professional tools to individuals with the DIY array; as a result, this platform is pivotal for us to expand our network and raise further awareness about our line of business.”

Japanese manufacturer Hitachi is one of world’s leading power tool manufacturers, and a debut Hardware + Tools Middle East exhibitor. Ichiro Komagata, General Manager of Hitachi Koki Gulf Branch, said the company is launching its Brushless Range of Demolition Hammers, Brushless Cordless Drive Drill and Brushless Rotary Hammer Drill.

“The Middle East and Africa is important to us as we’re focusing on emerging markets, where the potential opportunities for business growth and expansion is tremendous,” said Komagata.

“The GCC market is also bound to bounce back from its correction phase and we’re optimistic that the doors will soon be wide open to a world of greener pastures. We’re striving to be ready to kick off before the doors open up in future.”

Hardware + Tools Middle East 2017 returns with the Expert Zone, a one-stop destination showcasing the latest technology and solutions from the most established brands in the business. More information is available at www.hardwaretoolsme.com.