Qatar Motor Show 2017

Remarks by Ahmed Al Mulla

Chief Operating Officer of Elan Entertainment

Event:Press conference announcing the launch of Qatar Motor Show 2017

Language: English

Date: March 21, 2017

Location : Shangri-La Hotel

Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished guests,

Thank you for joining us today as we announce the 7th Edition of the Qatar Motor Show. This year’s is held under the patronage of H.E. Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister, and Minister of Interior of the State of Qatar and will be taking place from the 18th to the 22nd of March at the Doha Exhibition and convention Center. ( DECC)

Today we stand at the beginning of a journey of evolution that will see the transformation of the show under its new theme “Driving to Innovation.” Our long-term vision for the Qatar Motor is for it to become not only a platform but also a hub for industry innovation and technology. And through our theme, we aim to bring forward to enthusiasts in Qatar the technological advancements shaping the automotive industry today. The theme also follows the evolution of the show as we move away from a traditional exhibition format to a more consumer focused experiential event.

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with new ground breaking technologiesand therefore I am pleased to announce that the “Driving to Innovation” theme will guide the show’s direction for the upcoming three editions. Our commitment to innovation will play an integral role in developing the show and reinforcing its position in the GCC.

Honourable guests,

The Qatar Motor Show has a proven track record in bringing under one roof automotive industry brands, car retailers, and enthusiasts.The show is a prime event in the regional automotive industry and is expected to draw car enthusiasts from around the region.

It is with great pleasure and pride that I announce that Qatar will lead a new era of automotive innovations, with the 2017 edition featuringmodel debuts showcased for the first time in the Middle East.

To help shape the future of the Qatar Motor Show, we have been working closely with industry specialists and automotive dealers, who have expressed their trust in the show and have recogniseditas the ideal platform to host exclusive, and highly-anticipated regional brand launches.

The show dates have been shiftedconsidering a benchmark with international calendar of automotive shows, to position it avoiding overlapping and give brandsthe opportunity to showcase their latest international launches in Qatar.

This year’s Qatar Motor Show engages global automakersand brings them closer to enthusiasts, offering brands the opportunity to demonstrate their products and technologies. Over the five days of the show, more than 21 exhibitors will exhibit their top sports, luxury and mid-range cars. We will also be witnessing the launch of a new brand debuting in Qatar and a limited-edition vehicle tailor made for the show.

Ladies and gentlemen,

I cannot talk about modern cars without emphasising the significance of classical cars in the Qatari market. Balancing the past and the future, we will be hosting for the first time under the umbrella of the Qatar Motor Show a classical car exhibition showcasing someof the rarest car collectables in the world.

Building on the activities of our previous editions, the Qatar Motor Show 2017 will also feature an outdoor fan zone packed with performances and interactive activities for visitorsin addition to a parade of unique cars and the fastest race cars on the road, organised in cooperation with Mawater Motors.

Last but not least, on behalf of my colleagues at Fira Qatar, I would like to extend my gratitude to all the stakeholders who have helped realize the vision of Qatar Motor Show 2017, particularly Qatar Tourism Authority and the team lead by Mr. Ahmed Al Obaidly. Our partnership for the seventh consecutive year demonstrates the successful cooperation between the public and private sectors and the Qatar Motor Show 2017 is one of the fruits of this success.

I would also like to thank the dealers and brands for their ongoing support and for helping us make this year’s show our most unique one yet. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Mawater Motors forhelping enrich ourfan and visitors activities.

Finally, I would like to thank our host, the Shangri-La Hotel, who is the official sponsor of Qatar Motor Show 2017.

Ladies and gentlemen,

I conclude my remarks by thanking all of youfor attending this press conference. We are honoured by your support for Qatar Motor Show 2017.

Thank you.