U.K. recognises potential of Dubai leisure boating market

Industry estimates show that 1500 to 2000 new marina berths will be completed in Dubai within the next 5 years. With an expanding network of superb marinas and watersports clubs under construction, the growth prospects of the marine industry in the Middle East region are excellent. The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), which will be solely organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre, is the largest marine industry exhibition in the Middle East. The exhibition is gaining increased international recognition, and organisers have announced the creation of a new plan to enhance the event, which will be held from March 19-22, 2003, marking its eleventh anniversary. The show will take place at the waterfront of the exclusive Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club Marina.

Barry Groves, International Trade Manager of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce in the UK, recognises the phenomenal growth of the marine and leisure market in Dubai, which makes it the focal point for the Middle East marine market.

With organizers aiming to implement an exciting new format to the show, the international reputation of the Gulf's marine industry is destined to broaden. 'The buoyant industry in the Gulf has tremendous potential. Dubai is recognised as the region's key trade zone for the marine industry. In this context, strengthening the boat show's image is an important factor in the continued development, growth and promotion of Dubai's marine industry,' explained Shoiab Rahimi, International Project Manager, DIBS.

'A significant number of local and international companies recommended a re-organisation of the exhibition. By developing a new style and approach we are enabling this event to serve as a launch pad for new marine products and technologies in this region,' informed Mike Derrett, Independent Consultant to DIBS. Also, holding the boat show in March will contribute to its success because 'the weather is more moderate at this time,' added Mike.

Groves shares the enthusiasm at the prospect of an even better boat show in Dubai. 'A growing infrastructure in Dubai allows opportunities for many new contracts. With more Arab families taking to the water and buying waterfront properties, there has never been a better time to exhibit at the Dubai International Boat Show,' he states.

The event will build on the success of past shows to increasing exhibitor and visitor interest and participation, while stimulating growth in related activities of the industry. Exhibitors who participated in the previous shows said the show provided an excellent platform to meet new clients from a variety of regions and they were confident that the leads generated boosted their sales and proved that the Gulf region is an important and expanding market for marine sector.

Exhibitors from the UK who will be present at DIBS 2003 will have the correct balance of quality, innovation and first class marine products. 'They are looking forward to being given the opportunity to demonstrate their goods, hopefully leading to many orders and developing partnerships in the Middle East,' claims Groves, adding that since the Dubai World Trade Centre now has sole ownership of the Dubai Boat Show, the Chamber is looking forward to working with professionals who have many proven years of experience in this arena.

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