The Middle East had been revealed as a priority market for UK medtech companies, a new survey has revealed.

A business survey by the Association of British Healthcare Industries (ABHI) shows that over half of UK medtech companies anticipate exports to the Middle East over the next five years.

ABHI found that 51% of those involved in the survey anticipated improved turnover in the region. ABHI’s International Policy Group have also identified the Middle East as a key global region. The association’s policy group is led by member companies and supports the industry’s access to foreign markets.

The Middle East is an attractive market for UK medtech companies as there is a big demand for products that can benefit ageing populations.

The survey’s results come as 200 British companies prepare to travel to the UAE to exhibit at Arab Health, the largest healthcare exhibition in the region.

Held in Dubai from 29 January to 1 February, the exhibition offers a global platform for the world’s leading manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to meet with the scientific community in the Middle East and subcontinent to discuss business and develop new partnerships.

Paul Benton, managing director, International at ABHI, said: “When we consider the substantial investment into public health from the government of the UAE, and wider Middle East, opportunities for UK companies providing value-based healthcare solutions are significant. With so many companies planning to increase their presence in the region, Arab Health is the ideal platform to drive this growth and the UK Pavilion promises to be a hub of activity.”