Presenting the region’s largest showcase of machinery, equipment, tools and accessories for the metal working and forming industry, the 16th SteelFab 2020 has got under way at Expo Centre Sharjah on Monday (Jan 13).

Serving as a one-stop sourcing and reference point for the entire spectrum of products and services relating to welding and cutting technology, machine tools, fasteners and allied industries, SteelFab was inaugurated by Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Seaports and Customs. The event will run until January 16.

More than 300 manufacturers, distributors and 700 brands from 35 countries from across the world are displaying products and solutions ranging from the requirements of the smallest of the fabrication works to everything that a large project would require. Every international brand worth its name is available at the stalls that are spread across nearly 20,000 sq m.

The opening ceremony  was attended by H.E. Abdalla Sultan Mohamed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry & Expo Centre Sharjah.,  HE Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, SCCI’s Director General,  HE Saif Mohammad Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, HE Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF ZONE), and Sultan Shattaf, Sales and Marketing Director, Expo Centre Sharjah and as well as other board members from SCCI and Expo Centre.

Also present were members of diplomatic corps, dignitaries and representatives of the manufacturing sector, as well as a large crowd of businessmen and investors.

After cutting the ribbon, which marked the official opening of the show, Sheikh Khalid toured the show, and was briefed by exhibiters about their latest their latest products, technologies and innovative solutions in the metal working industry.

Sheikh Khalid affirmed that SteelFab offers something new every edition, which explains the growing number of participants and its increasing importance for local, regional and international companies looking forward to expanding their business and enhancing their presence in the UAE’s and region’s markets.

“It is especially important as it gives a unique access to the latest innovations, advanced techniques and high-end products in the steel and metal industry. This event does indeed reflect Sharjah’s great interest in promoting its reputation, competitive edge and status being a leading hub for business and investments,” he further said.

Sheikh Khalid added: “Thanks to the wise vision of H.H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sharjah has become a top regional destination for investors interested in the advanced steel and metal industry,”.

A number of officials from participating companies praised Expo Centre’s support and well organization of the event, stressing their keenness to attend such an annual event, which is one of the most important trade gatherings for the steel and metal industry in the region.

“SteelFab has been the flagbearer of the manufacturing industry for the past one and a half decades. Underpinned by bold reforms and stimulus measures, the manufacturing industry in the country has been expanding fast, and has become the base for the push to diversify the UAE economy. With every key regional player set to take advantage of the show, I am sure that SteelFab will continue to play a key role in strengthening the industrial base of the country,” said H.E. Al Owais

The presence of a large number of prominent local and international companies and brands who are leaders in their fields of expertise would also help establish crucial connections in supply chain across various segments of the manufacturing industry in the country, added Al Owais.

The regional manufacturing industry has always been on the leading edge of technology and innovation, and as the world moves into the fourth industrial revolution, the industry, of which metal fabrication is an integral part, is changing fast.

“The push is for faster machines, but the focus is also on connectivity and automation. And, new trends, including additive manufacturing, tube laser technology and artificial intelligence, will be the focus across the stalls at SteelFab, its special focus areas, national pavilions, live displays, and technical seminars,” said H.E. Al Midfa.

From fibre laser cutting machine to magnetic drilling and robotic assembling lines to abrasives, visitors can find everything, including machines, laser, automation, and software & services, from a single or multiple sources.

Since SteelFab is the largest showcase of welding and cutting in the region, and welding and cutting products account for nearly one-third of all the exhibits, a competition aiming to promote excellence in workmanship has been launched during the 16th SteelFab 2020. The Best Welder competition, held in association with Lincoln Electric and Middle East Industrial Training Institute, will be held during the show and winners awarded a slew of prizes, including a portable welding machine and full Lincoln Electric safety gear.

National Pavilions are a regular feature at SteelFab and this year exhibitors who represent Italy, China, India and Turkey have put up an impressive display. The 5th Fasteners World Middle East, held concurrently with SteelFab, is featuring companies such as SJS, Bolt Master, Petrofast, Technical Metal etc, providing visitors with fastener and fixing systems and related products and services.

Besides being a supportive partner to the event, the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) is also participating in SteelFab with a full-fledged pavilion. The authority is showcasing its unique services and investment opportunities as well as the advantages of setting up businesses at Hamriyah Free Zone.

The pavilion has also been dedicated to promote HFZA’s position, being an ideal hub for steel fabrication and metal companies and to attract major regional and international companies operating in this field through highlighting its unparalleled services, which were carefully developed to meet the needs of all investors, add value to their business and enhance their efficiency. Currently, more than 180 regional and international steel fabrication and metal companies are now operating at HFZA

Scores of industry executives and professionals have already signed up for technical seminars that will be organised in multiple sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday and will take up topics like material handling, welding, grinding and metal cutting by industry leaders.

The show will be open from 10 am to 7 pm daily only for trade and professional visitors. Entry and parking are free.