As urban centres in the Middle East grow into thriving commercial hubs and play host to a large number of international events and visitors, growing demand is expected for more top class spa facilities in the region.

According to a report on the Global Wellness Tourism Economy by the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is a US$ 438.6 billion global market and is a rapidly growing niche in the US $3.2 trillion global tourism industry.

These figures are reflected in the plethora of outlets worldwide offering multi-faceted services in every major travel destination. Travellers today are increasingly conscious of health and wellness and seek out hotels and facilities that offer spa and leisure services. This is no different in the Middle East where a steady increase in spas across all the major cities in the region has been seen, many of which are world-class in terms of services and facilities.

Research analysts Euromonitor International estimate that the retail value of the spa industry in the UAE is expected to reach US$ 440.1 million in 2017, significantly more than its’ US$ 330.2 million value in 2012. Furthermore, the Saudi spa industry is expected to enjoy 11% growth by 2017.

“Luxurious spas are a high interest area in the region and as such we expect to see the best in the field showcasing their professional equipment and products at Beautyworld Middle East this year,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of organiser, Epoc Messe Frankfurt. “With more people increasingly aware of the health benefits offered by spas and what is available internationally, spa operators in the region will be expected to offer services that comply with international guidelines,” he said.

With huge international events such as the World Cup in Qatar and the World Expo in Dubai coming up, new hotels and facilities under construction are driving this growth in the regional spa industry. The dedicated Professional Equipment & Spa focus area at Beautyworld Middle East caters to this sector and will feature a range of international and regional spa operators and service providers when it takes place in Dubai in May.

Participating at the exhibition is Tania AKL the Managing Partner in Medica Group, she said: 'After many successful years, Beautyworld Middle East has become an integrated part of our international business development strategy. It offers an amazing opportunity for us to meet key players in the beauty and spa industry and is an exceptionally strategic display for our products”

The 4th Spa & Salon Management Summit will also be held alongside Beautyworld Middle East. The summit covers key insights on opening, operating and managing a profitable business in this growing and changing industry. The summit will cover key issues such as safety standards, international best practices and local legislation.

Beautyworld Middle East is considered a leading international trade fair for beauty products, hair, fragrances and wellbeing. Drawing in a widespread and varied range of international and regional exhibitors, the exhibition showcases the best of the world of beauty to one of the most exciting marketplaces.

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; the Fragrance Station; and the Spa and Salon Management Summits.