Indian information and communication technology (ICT) firms are set to showcase their new products at the GITEX technology meet in Dubai, a leading official of the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) has said.

ESC Executive Director D K Sareen said growth continues in the Middle East despite the global downturn and the need of the hour for the ICT industry is to explore and diversify into new and emerging global markets.

As part of the plan to help member exporters diversify and expand their global base, ESC is initiating several efforts globally.

IT spending in the Gulf region is expected to reach USD 16 billion by 2011.

"India has a great stake in the booming Middle East, Africa, Asia and European markets, for which Dubai is the gateway. Thus, the participating Indian ICT companies have an opportunity for scouting the expanding burgeoning entire Middle East market and the other neighbouring regions," Sareen said.

ESC has been participating at the GITEX consistently for several years and the participating Indian companies under ESC's banner have reported high satisfaction by forging significant business, joint ventures, strategic and marketing tie-ups with buyers.

The share of electronics hardware exports from India to Middle East increased from 12.53 per cent to 14.81 per cent in 2008-09, making Middle East countries, the 3rd top destination for India's electronics hardware export during the year 2008-09.

This year, 50 Indian ICT companies are exhibiting their wares at the India Pavilion of the GITEX, while 10 Indian IT companies will take part in The Internet Show to be held in Abu Dhabi.