Saudi Arabia gearing up for motor show

Motor show London - Arabstoday One of the biggest automobile displays in Saudi Arabia is less than a month away. Saudi International Motor Show (SIMS) at the Jeddah Convention & Exhibition Centre between December 24 and 28 will feature an array of vehicles from local and international car manufacturers. Auto enthusiasts will be able to check out the latest models and test new technologies in the industry. Zahoor Siddique, vice-president of Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions, the organisers of the event said: "Visitors can expect an impressive array of new convenience, connectivity and safety features from the world's top manufacturers in vehicles that range from sedans to coupes and SUVs, and hatchbacks to convertibles and mini-vans." Organisers are hoping to attract over 1,000 people to the 34th SIMS. Up to 150 new cars will be on display, and 200 exhibitors have already confirmed attendance. Siddique is hoping this year's motor show will help the growth of Saudi Arabia's auto market: "Car sales in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf's largest automotive market, are expected to jump over 30 percent from around 676,000 in 2008 to 88,000 in 2013 as the Kingdom remains economically and commercially resilient to the global downturn," he said. The four-day event is also open to insurance companies and automobile magazines.