Dubai is set to host the 2024 edition of Breakbulk Middle East (BBME), following the success of this year’s event. Under the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, BBME 2023 attracted 6496 attendees, representing a 93% increase in visitors compared to the previous year.
The event brought together professionals from across the industrial supply chain, including freight forwarding, maritime transport, ports and terminals, equipment, air, and road transport. Organizers are expecting an even more successful event in 2024, with dates set for 12-13 February. BBME 2024 aims to unite the sector, reinforce its growth, and promote economic development in the Middle East. The event will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre and is expected to attract professionals from across the industry, offering opportunities for knowledge exchange, high-value collaborations, and networking.
The conference will feature insightful sessions covering business outlook, rates, capacity, and sustainability, and will highlight the role of mega-projects in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and beyond. Attendees can also expect key initiatives such as the Women in Breakbulk Networking Breakfast and Education Day.
H.E. Eng Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed the government’s commitment to supporting the project cargo sector. She emphasized the need to ensure the development of the industry, which has undergone several changes in recent years due to advancements in oil and gas, construction, and renewables, among other sectors. Digitalization and the deployment of the latest technologies have also enhanced the value chain of companies in the UAE and beyond, making it essential to provide the best ports and shipping infrastructure for the sector’s smooth functioning.
Al Malek added that the government’s aim is to transform the UAE into a nerve center for global logistics. She believes that BBME has played a strategic role in bringing together governments and industry experts for knowledge exchange and high-value collaborations, thereby contributing significantly to the region’s economy. She is confident that the 2024 edition will help realize the government’s aspirations for the sector and the country.
Ben Blamire, Event Director for Breakbulk Middle East, highlighted that the response to this year’s event was outstanding. With participation from 98 countries, the top few being the UAE, India, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Singapore, and the United States, among others. A remarkable 32% of attendees held key roles with the final purchasing authority, making them the movers and shakers in the industry. More than 90% of exhibitors have already rebooked for BBME 2024, taking more space than in 2023. In response to market demand, organizers have added a third hall for next year’s event.
BBME 2023 was a landmark event, setting the benchmark quite higher for next year’s edition. For the first time in history, a networking reception was held on the Day 1 of the event, and an inaugural Golf Day took place at the Dubai Hills Golf Club. Due to their success, both activities will return in 2024.
In conclusion, BBME has established itself as a great niche event that focuses on project cargo and the break bulk sector. It has become an essential platform for professionals in the industry to exchange ideas and collaborate, contributing to the growth of economies in the Middle East. BBME 2024 promises to offer more insightful sessions, networking opportunities, and high-value collaborations, bringing together the movers and shakers in the industry.
