SteelFab registers 16% rise in visitor turnout

Underscoring the strong momentum sweeping the regional metal fabrication industry, the just-concluded SteelFab 2024 recorded double-digit growth in its visitor count.

The 19th SteelFab 2024 international trade fair was held at Expo Centre Sharjah from January 8 to 11, strengthening its position as the dedicated regional platform that delivers cutting-edge technology, products and knowhow to the regional metal working industry. The event was opened by H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry & Expo Centre Sharjah.

Organised by Expo Centre Sharjah in association with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), SteelFab 2024 hosted more than 300 exhibitors from over 35 countries and displayed nearly 600 brands at 18,000 square metres of exhibition space. During its four-day schedule, the event attracted 6,500 trade visitors, registering a 16 per cent rise in the number of visitors compared to the previous show in 2023.

“The 19th SteelFab 2024 has once again demonstrated the crucial role it plays in driving the region's manufacturing and industrial growth and continues to remain a flagbearer of the country's economic diversification programmes. SteelFab has also underscored the fact that robotics, automation and machine learning are some of the major forces that are driving the evolution of the metal fabrication industry through its comprehensive lineup of latest machinery and the interest it has generated within the regional industry and beyond,” said H.E. Saif Mohamed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah.

For its 19th edition, SteelFab brought together 300 major global manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing equipment, machinery and innovative solutions from 35 countries across the globe, including the US, China, India, the UK, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Visitors had an opportunity to look for their specific requirements in special focus areas such as Welding & Cutting, Power Tools, Machine Tools, Pipe & Tube Machinery, and 3D, AI & Robotics.

"SteelFab is the most comprehensive event for the regional industry since it features a slew of activities and events that perfectly complement its exclusive showcase of products and solutions. Apart from the Special Focus Areas, the event gave visitors an opportunity to explore the concurrent 8th Fasteners World Middle East, Best Welder Competition, Hosted Buyers Program, Onsite B2B Matchmaking, live display of machinery and equipment and largest display of laser machines in the region,” said Mr. Sultan Shattaf, Commercial Director, Expo Centre Sharjah.

Among the footfalls, 39% were first-time visitors, and the industry profile of the visitors included steel fabrication, welding & cutting, steel & steel products, tools & accessories, packaging & containers, aerospace, automobile, machining / job shop, coating / paintings, MEP, oil & gas, construction, ship building, machinery and blasting, among others.