Middle East marine industry gears up for biggest ever Dubai International Boat Show

The Boat Show, organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is expected to attract over 19,000 visitors from around the world including high profile and VIP guests. The 40,000 square meter exhibition area will accommodate 440 exhibitors from 30 countries. In addition 85 berths will cater to boats ranging from 39ft to over 200ft, making it the premier networking event for buyers.

Addressing a press conference today at Dubai International Marine Club, Helal Saeed Khalfan Al Marri, Director General of Dubai World Trade Centre said, "We are proud to organise this leading event, which is the largest gathering of leisure boats, equipment and associated services the Middle East has ever seen."

"Over the years, the event has grown immensely in terms of participation, exhibitor profile, range of crafts, visitor turnout and overall recognition. The show offers exhibitors an opportunity to network with high spending consumers and trade visitors, who are driving demand for leisure boats and marine related equipment and supplies. Dubai has a long association with boating and is recognised as a centre for marine activity in the Gulf and the growing size and popularity of The Boat Show mirrors the rise in recreational boat sales in the region" he added.

The show will have a comprehensive line-up of regional and international boat manufacturers who will showcase a range of luxury yachts, watersport equipment and accessories to support the region's rapidly growing million dollar marine industry. In addition to the Gulf's existing 28,350 berth spaces, Dubai's many waterfront projects such as Dubai Maritime City, Dubai Marina, Palm projects, The World islands and Dubai Festival City will offer thousands more.

"Strong support from major waterfront developers such as Al Futtaim, Emaar and Nakheel has consolidated the Dubai International Boat Show's position as the leading event for the leisure boat industry in the Middle East. The lack of other promotional platforms in the region augments the role of the show to promote the industry as visitors can have face-to-face interaction with manufacturers and dealers," continued Al Marri.

Exciting elements at the show include the new VIP Tent, housing premier exhibitors like Dubai Maritime City, Exomos, IFA Hotels and Resorts, and Dubai Festival City who will launch their new model marina and introduce new concepts for the first time.

The show will witness the launch of several luxury boats from established regional and international players - Isora Yachts will be launching the Riva line from Italy, Sealine International from the UK and Sugarsand Boats from the USA, Azimut Yachts from Italy will be introducing the Azimut 42, 46, 50, 62 and Atlantis 42 and 47. Local manufacturers Gulf Craft will unveil their new look Majesty 118, Al Hareb Marine will bring in two new boats, a 44 feet closed cabin and a 52 feet tri-haul aluminium boat, while AS Marine will have their largest presence ever with several new models on display.

Visitors will also see new and innovative water sports equipment. Individual companies as well as national group pavilions will showcase a wide range of products from engines to diving equipment. Another exciting attraction at the show will be sailing demonstrations by Jebel Ali and DIMC Sailing Schools.

The Boat Show will open from 3.00pm to 9.30 daily - non-ticket holders must pay an admission fee of 15 dirhams per person.