Gadget geeks swarm on UAE's Gitex tech show

Gadget geeks descended upon Gitex Shopper searching for bargains on thousands of different electronics, tablets, laptops and smart phones.

Gitex 2011: Gadgets and gizmos galore

Look into the future Read all of The National's coverage of the huge UAE technology show. Learn more

Airport Expo centre resembled a pop up shopping mall as retailers set up hundreds of stands and hired legions of sales staff to persuade customers to part with their cash.

"We are tech geeks, of course we are going to buy something," said Elee Ednan, a shopper from Saudi Arabia. He and his friends had travelled from Riyadh especially to be at Gitex Shopper and to fly back with a bargain.

Something Mr Ednan believes is all too easy when faced with so many sales staff and so many retailers offering free accessories, add ons and financing incentives for almost purchase.

"People have to make sure they are here for something, if you are walking in looking anything, it can be dangerous for your wallet," he joked.

With any laptop over Dh2,000, Jumbo Electronics is giving away a free printer, external hard drive, office and security software and a head set.

Jacky's Electronics were offering discounts of up to Dh300 on Macbooks, as well as 12 months financing at 0 per cent.

Laurent Ginet, a tourist from France was rushing from stall to stall ahead of a flight home. He and his family had been told about the event by their hotel and bought a Macbook Pro and a new Canon camera, saving 500 euros compared to buying in France.

"It's far better than France, we are really glad our hotel told us to come down," he said.

Gitex Shopper is the retail partner to the exhibition event, Gitex Technology Week, which is being held this week at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.