International visitors praise organisation and range of Boat Show 2006

Exhibitors have strongly praised the development of the show and highlighted the impressive steps that the United Arab Emirates is taking on the international stage in the marine leisure industry.

"This is the second time we have exhibited at the Dubai International Boat Show, and just one year on the show has grown considerably. The Middle East leisure boat market is emerging at a rapid pace and the only way to penetrate this market is to take part in the Boat Show. We intend to exhibit here for many years to come," said Keith Cogzell, manager, Perry Catamarans, Australia.

"With Dubai's plans to develop 40,000 new marina berths, it's a region which is increasingly important within this industry," he added.

For the first time at the show there are seven national pavilions representing Australia (AIMEX & GCCC), Germany (DBSV), Italy (ICE & UCHINA), Netherlands (HISWA), New Zealand (NZ Marine), Turkey and the UK (Isle of White Chamber of Commerce).

"The Dubai International Boat Show is becoming a major meeting point for every market in the leisure boat industry. Everyone is talking about the Middle East leisure boat market, and the Dubai International Boat Show helps us to build lasting relationships with new and established customers," said Jeremy Usher, Trend Marine Products, UK - one of the world's largest marine glazing manufacturers.

Participants at the national pavilions have praised the organisation of the show, and agree that the rapid growth of the UAE's marine leisure industry creates major opportunities for international companies.

"This year's show has been a huge success for Italy, as always, and we are delighted to see the ongoing growth and development of Dubai International Boat Show," said Dr. Ferdinando Fiore, Trade Commissioner, Italian Trade Commission.

Visitors have also been delighted at the range of high-profile dignitaries and celebrities who have graced this year's event.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, paid a surprise visit on the first day, following its inauguration by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, Chairman of Emirates Group and Vice Chairman of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

In addition, dignitaries including New Zealand Trade Minister and Defence Minister Hon. Phil Goff, John Hawkins, Consul General at the British Embassy in Dubai, and Dr. Ferdinando Fiore, Trade Commissioner, Italian Trade Commission have visited.

Russell Coutts and Jes Gram-Hansen, two of the world's most influential personalities in match racing and the America's Cup, also toured the Show and took part in regattas running alongside the event.

Other celebrity figures, including Godolphin star Frankie Dettori and British comedian Jim Davidson, have been spotted at the show, which has also attracted major media outlets from around the world to its mix of sport, excitement and glamour.

Running until the 18 March 2006 at the Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi, the event is set to be the region's largest display of boats, marine supplies and services, attracting individual and trade buyers from across the world of boating and yachting.