Core77

Index 2007 (the Middle East's largest interiors show) will open this Thursday in Dubai, that bastion of frugal, understated design for people of modest means. Or is it a showcase for the super-rich, we always get those two confused. In any case Index will feature 1,500 exhibitors from Dubai and 55 other countries that have way less money.

As the fast pace of construction continues in the region and new hotels and residential complexes open on a regular basis, demand for interior products and services has never been higher. This, coupled with the region's rapidly growing population and ever evolving lifestyles, has led to increased demand for high quality, exciting and innovative designs for both commercial properties and private homes.

"Index continues to meet the challenges of the market and new ideas and innovations are always a key feature of the show," [says Kim Willis, Exhibition Development Director.] "This year, for the first time, we are delighted to welcome exhibitors from Afghanistan, Bulgaria, Laos, the Republic of San Marino, Monaco and Finland."

Finland! They're really stooping. The faucets aren't even made of gold there--they use regular metal!

The Index 2007 website is live but there aren't any images up yet, just some shots from last year (like the one above). Hopefully we'll have something to see by Friday.