Spending in the Gulf's construction sector rose from $40.5 billion in 2000 to about $45 billion last year, according to industry estimates.

One of the key factors behind the splurge is the growth of the office interior sector, a report said.

Imports of interior products in the local market is estimated to be over $2.8 billion in 2000. This includes $856 million in general furniture, $1.25 billion in fabrics and floor coverings, $289 million in lighting and $414 in ceramics import in 2000.

This includes imports into the UAE worth $300 million in general furniture, $326 million in fabrics and floor coverings, $179 million in lighting and $178 million in ceramics products. In total, the UAE's furniture, office and interior sector witnessed a $983 million worth of imports in 2000.

Import figures in all the four categories indicate that the UAE is the highest importer of goods in the furnishing sector. Total imports by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar stood at $710 million, $393 million, $281 million, $273 million and $174 million, respectively.