A Rough guide to

Cityscape Abu Dhabi The international property spotlight turns to the UAE capital next week for one of the biggest real estate exhibitions in the region. With one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds and long-term plans for continued property and infrastructure development, Abu Dhabi is in a strong position to capitalise on the relative weakness of other real estate markets, say organisers. "As a premier real estate investment and development showcase, Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2009 will bring together international and regional investors, innovative real estate developers, government authorities and other key stakeholders to discuss current market challenges and develop cutting edge strategies," said a spokesman. "It also provides a timely opportunity to assess where the best investment opportunities lie." When does it take place? Cityscape Abu Dhabi takes place from Sunday to Wednesday at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The event is open to everyone. How do I get involved? Standard visitor passes will be available on registration counters at the entrances to exhibition halls one to nine. VIP visitor passes will be available in limited number to purchase from the VIP Registration Desk at the entrance to the atrium. Conference passes will also be available to purchase in limited numbers from the Conference Registration Desk, also at the entrance to the atrium. Which companies will be there? Anyone who is anyone in the property and construction game will have a presence at Cityscape Abu Dhabi – including scores of complementary industries, such as 3D model-makers. More than 250 companies will be showcasing their products and projects at the event. Major firms confirmed for the four-day expo include all major UAE and international companies. Are there any speakers? Yes, many leading players in property and real estate will take to the podium to shed light on regional and international developments, with the global slowdown likely to be top of the agenda at many presentations. Speakers include, among others, Mounir Haidar, CEO of Sorouh, Andrew Chambers, Andrew Chambers, MD of Asteco, Boris Schran, Executive Director of Merrill Lynch, Binod Shankar, CFO of Meraas Investments, Sougata Nandi, Director – Sustainable Development at Tecom, and John Bullogh, CEO of Aldar. What else is going on? The development of the Middle East and North Africa's real estate sector will be on full display at the Cityscape Middle East Real Estate Awards, hosted during a gala dinner that will be attended by industry leaders on the opening night. There is also a golf tournament, to mix business and pleasure. How do I find out more? People can pre-register at www.cityscapeabudhabi.com Keep up with the latest business news from the region with the Emirates Business 24|7 daily newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, please click here .