CIUK Successful UK Mission at INDEX Dubai: Building Global Connections
Commercial Interiors UK had the pleasure of attending INDEX Dubai from 4th to 6th June 2024, a premier event for the interior design and fit-out industry in the MENA region, taking 7 UK companies to exhibit as part of their trade mission.
Celebrating over 30 years, INDEX has become a global hub for connecting with the latest innovations and leading brands. The event offers a unique opportunity for buyers to network with top manufacturers and explore cutting-edge products in furniture, flooring, lighting, and more.
The Middle East’s interior design market, valued at $80.6 billion, is thriving and hungry for the latest trends and solutions. At INDEX, professionals from around the world meet with key buyers, including interior designers, architects, and retailers, all seeking new products and partnerships. Beyond a trade exhibition, INDEX features award ceremonies, conferences, and networking events, making it the ultimate destination for learning and discovering new opportunities.
INDEX is largest trade event for the hotel & hospitality sector in the Middle East, occupying eleven vast halls hosting five different shows: INDEX, Workspace, The Hotel Show, The Leisure Show, and Kidspace. Despite the 40-degree heat outside, the air-conditioned venue offered a refreshing escape, sometimes necessitating a jumper due to the chill!
Commercial Interiors UK are committed to supporting UK companies in expanding their global presence. Their participation in INDEX Dubai exemplifies their efforts to create international business opportunities, aiding both their members and non-members in thriving globally.
Their UK Business Lounge at Stand 4F161 hosted seven of the UK’s leading companies, each showcasing their cutting-edge interior furnishings and power solutions. The stand, painted black to highlight the products, provided an excellent platform for these companies to connect with potential clients across the hospitality, leisure, commercial, and residential sectors. Here’s a glimpse at the participating companies:
UK Business Lounge
- Amtico International: Renowned manufacturer of luxury vinyl tiles for both commercial and residential environments. Explore their innovative designs at
- Broad Power Solutions: Providers of innovative office power and ergonomic solutions, enhancing workplace efficiency. Discover more at Broad Power Solutions.
- Burgess Furniture Ltd: Specialists in designing and manufacturing banquet and meeting room furniture that combines functionality with elegance. Learn more at Burgess Furniture.
- Burmatex Ltd: Leading UK manufacturer of sustainable commercial carpet and flooring solutions, committed to quality and environmental responsibility. Visit Burmatex for more information.
- Craven Dunnill Jackfield: A global leader in the production of traditionally styled decorative ceramic tiles, known for their craftsmanship and heritage. Find out more at Craven Dunnill Jackfield.
- Mistry Designs: A design studio specializing in exclusive wallpapers and fabrics for high-end clients, blending artistry with luxury. Explore their creations at Mistry Designs.
- One-LUX Ltd: Experts in the manufacturing of emergency lighting and lighting controls, ensuring safety and reliability. Learn about their products at One-LUX.
For more details on these companies, check out their brochure.
UK Business Lounge
INDEX also featured a comprehensive talks programme, with one standout session for Commercial Interiors UK titled “Achieving Sustainable Development Goals through Responsible Design.” Moderated by Esra Lemmens, the discussion included insights from Carlos Mello, Dr. Albert S. Fakhoury, Will Plowman, Elie N. Skaff, and Richard Wilson.
They emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and showcased innovative materials which offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional products. These included a skateboard made from melted bottle caps.
KARL LAGERFELD collaborated with sustainable skate brand WasteBoards
‘Leukeather’ which is an innovative natural textile alternative to exotic leather made from discarded dried pods. It is a vegetal, sustainable and ethical material alternative and a by-product of existing agriculture.
Leukeather
‘Palmade’ which tackles global plastic consumption because it is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic made from date palm biowaste.
Palmade
Key Takeaway: Buildings are more than just structures; they impact entire communities. Designers must lead the way in educating and changing consumer mindsets towards more responsible and sustainable practices.
Commercial Interiors UK’s mission to INDEX Dubai was a tremendous success. The seven UK companies they supported not only showcased their innovative products but also engaged in numerous fruitful conversations and built strong relationships with visitors from across the globe. Their collective effort and collaboration highlighted the strength and synergy of the UK interior design and furnishing sector on an international stage.
UK Business Lounge
This mission underscores the importance of the associations continued efforts to promote UK trade and expand your global reach. As they look ahead, they are excited to announce their next mission: INDEX Saudi Arabia, taking place in Riyadh from 17th to 19th September 2024.
If you’re interested in participating or learning more, they encourage you to get in touch with Sue Graves at sue@commercial-interiorsuk.com and join them in driving UK excellence forward.