The Middle East continues to be a key market for premium cosmetics, with leading international manufacturers and suppliers pulling out the stops to make further headway into increasingly lucrative territory. This trend is expected to be reflected significantly at the upcoming edition of Beautyworld Middle East, the region’s largest international trade event serving the beauty and wellness industry.

According to analysis by Euromonitor International, per capita spend on premium cosmetics in the countries of the GCC, has been increasing at a remarkable rate. For instance, consumers in Saudi Arabia are expected to spend as much as US$ 68.20 per capita on premium cosmetics in 2017 as compared to US$ 49.20 in 2012. Similarly, the UAE consumer is estimated to spend $ 48.70 per capita on premium cosmetics in 2017 as compared to the $ 40.70 in 2012.*

These spending levels on high-end cosmetics underline the traditional preference in the region for high quality cosmetics and beauty products, while also indicating the growing spending power of the Middle Eastern consumer. They also compare favourably with spending levels in the traditionally high-spending markets of France ($ 89.60 in 2017), UK ($ 70.60 in 2017) and the US ($ 65.80 in 2017).

“The regional consumer has been known to be extremely discerning and appreciative of high quality goods and products and they have always been willing to pay premium prices for the exclusive and outstanding,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, organiser of Beautyworld Middle East. “The 2014 edition of the exhibition will feature a wide selection of premium brands and select manufacturers all looking to further engage with regional buyers.”

As one of the world’s leading international trade fairs for beauty products, hair, fragrances and wellbeing, Beautyworld Middle East 2014, which runs from May 27th to 29th at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will feature an unmatched range of international and regional exhibitors, representing a majority of the leading brands.

“The Middle East market is of big interest for us - anti- aging and whitening products are highly appreciated in this area, especially the luxury products, because people in the Middle East are interested in high quality.” said Dr. Jutta Knauer, CEO of AUDORASAN cosmetics.

Beautyworld Middle East 2014 will feature the following focus groups: Hair, Nails and Accessories, Cosmetics, Skincare and Fragrance, Machinery, Packaging and Raw Material and Professional Equipment and Spa.

Additional features at Beautyworld Middle East 2014 include: the Beautyworld ME Boutique; Walk of Beauty by Madi International; Nail It! by OPI and Nazih Group; and the Fragrance Station.