Dubai International Boat Show grows by 51 per cent to be the 'largest-ever' event for region's marine industry

The show, to take place from 14 - 18 March 2006 at the Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi, is clearly positioned to build on the rapidly growing multi-million dollar Middle East marine industry.

In total, an unprecedented 427 companies will be represented at the show (an increase of 7%) with 123 yachts (an increase of 56%) and motor driven boats on the water including "super yachts" - measuring over 24 metres in length - on display.

Companies offering a diverse range of products - including fishing equipment, navigation systems and computer equipment, water sports clothing and marina equipment - will be promoting their wares across the show, in the external areas and inside the equipment and luxury supplies covered sections.

Visitors will also be able to watch one of the key sailing events of the year whilst exploring DIBS The Dubai Match Race Challenge. The race runs alongside DIBS at the Dubai International Marine Club on the 16 and 17 March.

Visitors to DIBS can also attend the 2nd Gulf Boating Conference, which takes place on the mornings of the 15 and 16 March. The conference, entitled "Vision for the Future" covers topics such as new marina and waterside developments, the potential for imported and locally manufactured boat sales as well as regulations for leisure boating in the Gulf and setting up a business amongst others. Participants must be pre-registered in order to attend; registration can be completed online (www.boatshow.dwtc.com).

Interest in boats and sailing is at an all-time high in the Middle East, driven in particular by a range of new developments with waterfront properties and adjoining marinas. In Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, KSA, Lebanon, Oman and the United Arab Emirates in particular, new projects with waterside facilities are increasing the attractiveness and potential for people to own and use boats.

"It is a time of great opportunity for manufacturers and service providers in the marine leisure industry, as the Middle East sees a wave of potential new business through the creation of spectacular waterside developments,"

said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General - DWTC, organiser of Dubai International Boat Show 2006.

"As the premier marine leisure event in the region, Dubai International Boat Show 2006 is expected to reflect this expanse of opportunity, with the highest number of visitors and exhibitors since its inception," he added.

With the rapid and dedicated growth of waterside developments, exhibitors and other marine industry spokespersons claim that the show will act as a platform from which to manage and drive demand from a new breed of yachting and boating enthusiasts.

New home owners and companies buying property in waterside developers are seen as prime potential customers for leisure marine products and services in 2006.

DWTC confirmed that companies from the major exporting nations of Australia, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UK and the USA have booked their places at DIBS 2006, which will ensure local and regional buyers have access to the widest selection of products.

Reports indicate that well over 30,000 leisure craft are currently used in the Gulf and, increasingly, residents and commercial organisations are looking at ways to enjoy boating and marine related activities on the region's warm waters.

The Dubai International Boat Show, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and will take place from 14 - 18 March 2006 at the Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi from 3pm to 9.30pm daily. The show is open free of charge to Trade and to the General Public, at a nominal cost of AED25 per person. Access to the On-Water Marina Area may be restricted at times. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied at all times.