Emirates Boat Show International sails off to magnificent start

Displayed on the backdrop of one of the Middle East's foremost marine developments, marine businesses from around the world, along with boating aficionados visiting the event organized by Knotika Holding, a market leader in the regional leisure marine industry and organiser of prominent boat shows in Kuwait and Bahrain, witnessed one of the largest selections of boats and yachts from across the region.

Saeed Hareb, Chairman of Knotika Holding, said:

"Under the support of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and ADNEC, the marine industry in Abu Dhabi has flourished tremendously over the past several years, helped significantly by the emirate's powerful economy and established infrastructure."

"With his truly inspiring vision, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan's efforts have helped establish Abu Dhabi not only as a business hub, but also as a tourist destination that will be home to some of the region's greatest developments in both luxury and commerce," Hareb added.

Attracting a wide range of sponsors including Maserati, purveyor of luxury Italian automobiles, Dubai First, first consumer finance company of Dubai Group, a member of Dubai Holding; Zaya, a joint venture premium property developer with a combined portfolio in excess of $15bn, lead by the company's debut exclusive island community project and Falcon Aviation Services, Abu Dhabi's premier helicopter shuttle service; the Emirates Boat Show International was supported by influential brands in their respective businesses, keeping with the aspect of luxury and leadership.

Wael Juju, CEO of Knotika Holding, explained the attraction of the Emirates Boat Show International to the global boating community: "The fact that Abu Dhabi is one of the fastest developing and wealthiest cities in the world made it the perfect venue for an event that epitomises a luxurious lifestyle. The success of this event has positioned Abu Dhabi on the world's map as the master town for the Marine business."

The Emirates Boat Show International has been held at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, and has attracted more than 150 exhibitors displaying the latest leisure marine products, including motor yachts, jet skis, wakeboarding boats and equipment, sailing dinghies and diving gear, marine accessories and electronics. More than twenty world-renowned manufacturers are also on display at the show, including Aicon, Azimuth, Bayliner, Beneteau Yachts, Cabo, Carver, Doral, Elegance, Four Winns, Gulf Craft, Hatteras, Jeanneau, Larson, Mastercraft, Maxum, Palm Marine, Princess Yachts, Riva, SeaRay, Silver Craft, Tige and Wellcraft.

"Abu Dhabi's first ever participation in this international boating event has empowered business on all levels and have graced opportunities with some of the world's leading luxury brands, spanning a multitude of industries. Additionally and with his truly inspiring vision, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan's efforts have helped establish Abu Dhabi not only as a business hub, but also as a tourist destination that will be home to some of the region's greatest developments in both luxury and commerce," said Ahmed Al-Romaithi, Member of the Executive Committee of Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADMISC).