The leather and footwear sectors in the Middle East are experiencing a massive boom and there appears to be immense potential for future growth.

In order to meet growing demand, the UAE imported leather footwear worth $7.6 million in the first six months of 2008.

Dubai is home to some of the largest superstores in the world, offering a great deal of retail space for leather and footwear. Brands such as Danier Leather, J.M Weston and Lamarthe Paris have opened retail outlets in Dubai.

Around 200 exhibitors from more than 25 countries representatives attended garment, textile and leather fair Motexha in March.