The annual Saudi International Motor Show (SIMS) will be held under the auspices of Dr. Jobarah Al-Suraisry, Minister of Transport, at the Jeddah Center for Forums and Events, from Dec. 27-31. The formal inauguration is set at 5 P.M. on the opening day. Organized by the Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions Ltd., SIMS'08 is the 30th edition, or Pearl Anniversary, that covers vehicles, motorcycles, auto parts, accessories and garage equipment. “For 30 years, SIMS has been at the pinnacle and consistently led the way in exhibition innovation for the automotive sector,” Zahoor Siddique, Exhibitions Director, said. The motor show is being held at a time when the Kingdom with its buoyant economy and strong purchasing power is enabling car buffs to purchase the vehicles of their choice – from sedans to vans and from sport utility vehicles and 4X4s to some of the most luxurious models. This year, there will be extensive celebrations to mark SIMS's 30th year, while next year, ATA, SIMS and Premium Marques will see the Saudi International Motor Show develop into three separate events. Closing to great accolades from both exhibitors and visitors, in excess of 130,000 car enthusiasts attended the 29th Motor Show in 2007 when they were presented with one of the widest and most comprehensive collection of motor vehicles as well as every type of automotive accessory and service. The 30 years since 1978 have been characterized mainly by stylistic changes driven by fashion, also evident in the way that cars were marketed 30 years ago. Buying a car in 2008 is no longer a simple choice between a comfortable yet big heavy monster that guzzles fuel like there is no tomorrow and a small FWD box on wheels that jars the spine with every bump and jolt. Even the lowest priced new car is now better equipped than most of the super luxury cars in 1978. Airconditioning, electronic engine management, power steering, integrated audio systems and supple responsive suspensions are all pretty much standard across the board, which means that today's luxury cars have had to move even more up market to retain their position. Thirty years of technological development have resulted in efficient, reliable, comfortable cars and there is only one word to describe buying a car in Saudi Arabia today – “Brilliant.” This year, too, SIMS will be treated to the launch of new car models. In 2007, no fewer than 15 models made their debut. As a first time visitor to the exhibition commented, “This is absolutely fantastic, I'm looking for a new car and here at SIMS I can see every make and all brands under one roof.” He was especially delighted to see the complete range of accessories and financial services on show. All exhibitors were pleased with their participation and the level of business conducted. For them, the 2007 show was the best to date with many achieving record deals. “Where else can you see tens of thousands of potential customers each day. The annual motor show is the place and it has made all the difference for car buffs,” said Khalid Al-Harithy, Marketing Manager, Alhamrani, Nissan. “Each year, SIMS just gets better. It provides a great platform for participation and interaction with our customers in the rapidly growing Saudi market,” said Sultan Salman, Retail Marketing Coordinator for General Motors Middle East. “For us business was outstanding and we are delighted with both our participation and our decision to sponsor SIMS'07,” said a spokesman for Al-Rajhi Bank, which had a gong sounding for each new finance deal that was concluded. The show will be open daily from 5
