Month: March 2024

• Dubai International Boat Show Draws to a Close Amidst Bustling Crowds and Tales of Exhibitor Success On a Global Scale After Casting Spotlight Once More on International Yachting Industry
• As the 30th edition comes to a close, key exhibitors at Dubai International Boat Show are celebrating deals made during successful five-day event

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Dubai, UAE – 3 March 2024: Dubai International Boat Show, the Middle East, Africa and Asia’s largest and most established maritime show, has wrapped up following a hugely successful week of high value boat sales, important discussions addressing industry developments, groundbreaking agreements and partnerships set to shape the future of the yachting world.

The exhibition is recognised as one of the most influential boat shows in the world and has accelerated the international yachting industry during its five-day run, proving why Dubai has fast become one of the most sought-after marine leisure tourism hubs.

We look at some of the biggest developments throughout the five-day celebration of all things maritime:

Top sales

Evidencing the Dubai International Boat Show as a platform to connect major boat builders with HNWI and UHNWI, major sales were made by Athaus Yachts, who sold their Lamborghini 63 built by Tecnomar Yachts, hull #19 to a UAE expat. Upon sharing this exciting news Beatrice Chiardi said: “It has been an exciting show with really strong negotiations nearly closed from day two onwards. We’ve welcomed younger visitors from different countries at our stand this year, with the potential to buy. This show is the place to be in terms of meeting people from the industry and it really is the best place in the world to be, to work together.

SanLorenzo, which also sold three yachts at the exhibition, highlighted the show as a platform to reach new potential buyers and long-standing clients alike for impactful sales. “We are extremely happy this year, as we have welcomed more people than last. And we are happy that this is the first time we have three SanLorenzo boats represented at the show, as compared to last year, and all three of them were sold. Next time we hope to bring even more,” said a representative of SanLorenzo.

Abeer AlShaali, Deputy Managing Director at Gulf Craft Group, commented: “Gulf Craft Group has sold multiple of its iconic vessels during the show, from its award-winning Majesty Yachts, renowned Nomad Yacht, and sleek Silvercraft and SilverCAT brands with many more deals in the pipeline. Furthermore, we proudly unveiled our latest advancements, staying attuned to international trends and demonstrating our commitment to evolving alongside the industry.

MTM Group, which is participating at the show for the 18th time, sold over 10 jet skis, and have promised to return again next year upon seeing the incredible response that has been increasing annually. Bassem Wazafi, General Manager of MTM Group, said: “The sales we‘ve seen this year at the show have been a result of the incredible organisation of the show itself. It was the best I think, so far. We’re going to continue next year as well and we’re going to rebook.

Varied visitors and buyers were welcomed by exhibitors with multiple yacht builders recognising the diversification in this year’s edition, seeing an increase in European and Arab prospective buyers.Sustainability continued to be in focus for the Dubai International Boat Show with exhibitor Sunreef presenting two fully electric yachts – electric sail and electric power. Demonstrating its commitment to providing excellence with safety for the environment, the yachts follow an energy efficient concept with sustainable air energy saving air conditioning and elements of the yacht made from plant-based composites. Artur Poloczanski, Public Relations Director At Sunreef Yachts, said: “I’m most excited about announcing our Ras Al Khaimah shipyard at the Dubai International Boat Show. We started out over 20 years ago in Poland and now we’re branching out into the UAE. This follows our news from last year when we announced the opening of our Dubai office.

Azimut’s ‘green path’ already includes the first fuel cell tested on board, the first hybrid yacht and a fleet of Low Emission Yachts, as well as the alliance with Eni Live (Eni Sustainable Mobility) for the decarbonisation of yachting to supply HVOlution. Enrico Chiaussa – Azimut Chief Commercial Officer EMEA APAC, said, “The yachting industry is undergoing a revolution in terms of sustainability, a topic which is increasingly important to clients all over the world, and we have been leading the way in this direction for years. Sustainability is inherent in Azimut’s DNA: for more than two decades we have been investing towards this goal and developing the best available technologies to make a real difference.

Landmark agreements

The decision to host Dubai International Boat Show at Dubai Harbour for its 31st edition was agreed on site with Trixie LohMirmand, EVP – Dubai World Trade Centre, and Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Shamal Holding, the owner and curator of Dubai Harbour, confirming a long-term partnership that provides the global yachting community with further opportunities for growth.

Members-only boat club, The Captain’s Club, announced its plans to expand from Dubai into Kuwait, evidencing the development of the regional maritime sector and the impact the Dubai International Boat Show has on professionals in the maritime sector. Zaid Shouly said: “As CEO of The Captain’s Club, I am thrilled to unveil our groundbreaking franchise partnership with Al Boom Marine, heralding the launch of our prestigious annual membership services in Kuwait. This exciting collaboration represents a monumental leap forward in our mission to extend our maritime excellence beyond the UAE’s shores. Together with Al Boom Marine, we are empowering enthusiasts in Kuwait to embark on unforgettable boating adventures, delivering the same unrivalled standard of excellence and dedication to quality that defines The Captain’s Club.

Marine Services One, a leading UAE provider of yacht repairs, refits, and marine equipment distribution for leisure yachting, announced the addition of three new partners to its portfolio during the annual event: Italvipla, Osmosea, and Tikal Marine Systems. The announcement expands the company’s capabilities to deliver for its clients and offer more comprehensive solutions, superior quality and value for money.

Ali Khreis, Promotion Manager at Al Fajer Marine, said: “Through this boat show we have been able to initiate talks and negotiations to have representatives and ambassadors for Al Fajer Marine in Australia, Maldives and the UK. If these negotiations get confirmed in the future, they would be the first of its kind for Al Fajer Marine – a result of this incredible boat show.

The 31st edition of Dubai International Boat Show will take place at Dubai Harbour in February 2025 – further details will be announced in due course.

• New agreement offers Dubai International Boat Show and the global yachting community great opportunities for growth

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Dubai, UAE – 3 March 2024: The Dubai International Boat Show is extending its long-term partnership with host venue Dubai Harbour to accelerate the global yachting community’s international growth missions in the world’s most sought-after marine leisure tourism hub.

The agreement provides Dubai International Boat Show with a dedicated infrastructure and location in Dubai Harbour in the immediate and foreseeable future, offering generous opportunities for expansion.

After four days of palpable buzz, excitement, energy, buoyant boat sales, and curiosity from around the world this week in its 30th edition, securing a long-term home for the largest boat show in the Middle East, Africa and Asia will fast-track the unstoppable momentum of Dubai as one of the world’s most attractive yachting destinations.

“Dubai represents the new world and a new era in leisure yachting,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of Dubai International Boat Show.

“Everyone speaks of the soaring energy in the city and in the boat show. We’ve been called many times this week as the most beautiful boat show in the world. It’s easy when the Dubai Boat Show is set in a world class marina against the most glorious skyline of any yachting destinations.

“Dubai Boat Show and our host venue Dubai Harbour are committed to accelerate this unstoppable momentum of partnership with our international community, to build the next most outstanding and sought-after yachting hub in the world. We are proud to secure a long-term home for Dubai Boat Show here at Dubai Harbour. This shall give investors the confidence and trust to fast forward their long-term development plans in the region.”

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Senior Advisor of the Dubai International Boat Show and Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council said: “Dubai Harbour is a fitting venue for a city that is increasingly making its mark in the global maritime space.

“The continued collaboration of Dubai International Boat Show and Dubai Harbour is great for the international yachting community, inspiring confidence to grow boldly with energy and enthusiasm. “Having been part of the show since its inception, it is incredible to see its growth and dedication to uniting the entire maritime industry – I’m greatly looking forward to seeing how the show will continue to develop in 2025, and beyond,” His Excellency added.

A vibrant waterfront community befitting of a world-class global boat show

Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Shamal Holding, the owner and curator of Dubai Harbour, said: “The Dubai International Boat Show is not only the biggest marine show in the region it has grown to become a major catalyst to the wider advancement of the maritime industry and a testament to Dubai’s growing status as one of the world’s maritime hubs.

“As host venue for the third year, we greatly value the partnership between the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Boat Show, as well as the support of our partners and stakeholders as Dubai Harbour continues to grow and evolve as a seafront destination for residents and tourists.

“As the region’s largest marina located right the heart of Dubai we consider Dubai Harbour the natural home for the Dubai International Boat Show and we are committed to continuing to strengthen our partnership, contributing to Dubai’s thriving leisure maritime sector for many years to come,” added Binhabtoor.

Long-standing partners laud partnership as pivotal for continued growth

The Dubai International Boat Show’s partnership with Dubai Harbour was greeted with enthusiasm by long-standing local and global partners, exhibitors, shipyards and yacht brokers, all of whom have positioned Dubai as the focal point of long-term business growth.

Abeer Al Shaali, Deputy Managing Director at Gulf Craft, a UAE-based yacht manufacturer that has participated at the Dubai International Boat Show since its inaugural show in 1992, said: “We love that the Dubai International Boat Show is continuing its strong partnership with Dubai Harbour.

“This event has been growing and welcoming more and more visitors every year, and the
world-class infrastructure at Dubai Harbour, with its iconic landscape, will allow for continued growth and space to welcome even more visitors, boats, clients, suppliers, and international
organisations in the maritime industry from across the world.”

New engaging format in 2025

The 31st Dubai International Boat Show will return to Dubai Harbour in February 2025, promising a
new concept manifesting innovative and creative formats with higher international participation that
captures the energy of one of the world’s most influential yachting events.

• From VR tours and Gen Z command centres to the need for patience with hydrogen, this year’s Dubai International Boat Show is progressing the nautical narrative   

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Dubai, UAE – 1 March 2024: Over the past three decades, Dubai International Boat Show has evolved into the Middle East’s most renowned yachting event, setting trends, driving change, and heightening focus on underrepresented issues and themes. This week, the region’s largest and most established marine lifestyle show is celebrating its 30^th anniversary until March 3, with the show once again setting the agenda for the region’s maritime industry.

Whether it is virtual tours of private superyachts or engaging live demonstrations of new tech, insights into generational differences in boatbuilding or spotting modern Italian style on the show floor, we look at some of the key trends, themes, and things to see at Dubai International Boat Show 2024 that make it such a must-attend event for maritime enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the curious public.

Livin’ La Vida Luxuriously

The co-located Marine Luxury Lifestyle exhibition is a celebration of high-end maritime living, showcasing everything from regional destinations such as Yas Marina and Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, to Maui Jim sunglasses and Middle Eastern clothing brand Carter & White, which specialises in Egyptian cotton. Visitors can immerse themselves in opulence, with displays showcasing the best in nautical affluence and marine technology. At the Seakeeper stand, guests can view engaging live demonstrations of the company’s innovations, designed to ensure stability in the water by reducing boat roll and pitch. As Ryan Albers, Director of Sales & Support at Seakeeper Ride, said: “The most obnoxious part of boating is the rolling or the slam of the bow as the waves come. If you could eliminate 70-80 per cent of the violence occurring, it makes boating more pleasurable and keeps you and your guests on the boat for longer.”

The Generation Game

Forget Hemingway and his Old Man and the Sea, this year’s Dubai International Boat Show is all about appealing to younger generations. In the air-conditioned main tent, amid the Formula One cars and strutting influencers, Australia’s Echo Yachts is allowing visitors to strap on a Meta Quest 3 headset, virtually step aboard its 84m White Rabbit superyacht, and explore every inch of the largest trimaran the world has ever seen. Down on the show’s impressive Superyacht Avenue, Feadship’s Chief Marketing Officer Farouk Nefzi gives another insight into the preferences of the younger generation. Feadship’s concept yacht Pure features a windowless command centre filled entirely with screens. “When we unveiled this, older captains said: ‘No windows; no way!’” said Nefzi. “But the younger generations were the opposite. They were like: ‘Yes! It’s the ultimate gaming console, I love it!”

Translucent with a Tint of Green

Whether it is a trimaran that uses 40 per cent less power than a similarly sized monohull to achieve the same top speed or a vessel with a solar panelled roof that generates the energy to run its interior electrics, the focus more than ever is on the environment. Like many manufacturers, Dubai-owned Gulf Craft Group is experimenting with the use of hydrogen propulsion, but Mohammed Alshaali, chairman of Gulf Craft, says it will take time. “This is a process not a decision,” he said. “You cannot just decide to move from diesel or gasoline to electric or hydrogen overnight, but the damage to the environment done by the yard is something like 0.002 per cent, so it’s very minimal compared to other sources of threat to the environment. That said, we hope to launch something soon.”

International Interest

From St Kitts & Nevis to Bulgaria, a host of national flags are fluttering in Dubai Harbour this week while exhibitors have travelled in from more than 55 countries, including four debut nations in the form of Austria, Finland, South Korea, and Sweden. Yet for those walking through the tented area, visitors can be forgiven for thinking they have been transported to Italy. The central walkway features brand representatives from more than a dozen Italian companies such as Zar Formenti, Fidema Group, and the Italian Trade Agency. Italia Yachts’ Fabio Pignatelli attended last year’s DIBS and says this year he has noted a jump in the number of people with genuine interest in learning about boats from other parts of the world. “Here in Dubai, I can see there is a real passion and curiosity to understand the boats and the industry in general. This is different from Italy and it is very nice – to see, to discuss, to share information,” he added.

Room with a View

While the show has more than 200 boats on display this week, exhibitor and show partner Sobha Real Estate is grabbing with both hands the opportunity to put its latest marine-based project in front of ultra-high net worth individuals and show that terra firma can still hold appeal. Located at Dubai Harbour and set for completion in 2026, Sobha Seahaven will be a premium sea-facing destination with ultra-luxury 1-4-bedroom apartments and exclusive amenities. With prices starting from Dh3.2m and rising to as high as Dh135m for one of its three penthouses, the Sobha sales team are in high demand this week. Curiously, Sobha staff said Arabs are not among the top three nationalities purchasing the apartments – instead, Russians, Indians, and Chinese are the three moving quickest to snap up their latest investments off-plan.  

Taking place until March 3 at Dubai Harbour, the Dubai International Boat Show is showcasing an extensive array of international marine attractions from more than 1,000 different brands, including 400 new companies.

To purchase tickets for Dubai International Boat Show, please click here.

• Exhibitors from the UAE shine as visitors from all around the world marvel at yachts and product displays by Gulf Craft, Dubai Police, Al Fajer and Dubai International Marine Club

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Dubai, UAE – 2 March 2024: After three decades as a strategic platform enhancing the global appeal of the UAE’s homegrown marine sector, a host of the country’s most innovative brands are proudly showcasing their latest luxury lifestyle products at the 30^th anniversary edition of Dubai International Boat Show – the region’s largest and most established marine lifestyle event – which runs until Sunday 3 March at Dubai Harbour.

Loud and proud

Nestled between Hypercar Avenue and the event’s dedicated Fishing Village, the Proudly UAE section of the 30^th Dubai International Boat Show is amplifying the country’s maritime heritage and showcasing its best locally made vessels, nautical products, and innovations.

Dubai-based Al Suwaidi Marine (ASM) has launched two new fishing boat vessels: a 36-foot craft and a smaller 31-foot sport craft. For Mohammed Al Suwaidi, ASM’s Chairman, leveraging this year’s event to unveil the two boats was a straight-forward decision.

“This is the biggest boat show in the region, so for me, every boatbuilder should participate,” said Al Suwaidi. “The title ‘Proudly UAE’ is very nice because we are indeed proud to be from the Emirates, and we’re also proud to introduce our products here for the first time. Launching our new vessels at Dubai International Boat Show ensures we attract more attention, which they deserve because they’re very good quality craft made right here in the UAE.”  

Racing excellence

Visitors have flocked to see two spectacular racing boats designed and manufactured by the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) in collaboration with Dubai’s world-famous Victory Team. Doubling up as both exhibitors and activation leaders, DIMC is leading the Dubai Fishing Competition for Kingfish and Cobia, as well as the event’s dedicated freestyle and HydroFly competitions.

Dubai Police

Synonymous with its fleet of eye-popping supercars, the prestigious Dubai Police has wowed local and international visitors with its fleet of premium sea-based vessels. Showcasing excellence in law enforcement, the fleet includes the award-winning racing Jetski which has participated in world championships, a pioneering Jet Car capable of speeds of up to 80 km an hour on water that is a favourite in UAE National Day celebrations, as well as the official patrol boat.

UAE boat builders in the spotlight

Al Fajer Marine, one of the UAE’s largest boat builders, has reported a host of global interest in its vessels including European buyers hailing from Germany and Spain, as well as GCC-based client prospects. The company has launched at the show the S-Class 90, and the Sunrise 60.  The former measures in at 92 feet and can go up to 45 knots, while the latter is 61.5 feet and can get up to speeds of 27 knots.

Legacy show partner, Gulf Craft, which has 15 vessels at this year’s event, reiterated the significance of Dubai International Boat Show reaching its 30^th anniversary milestone at a time when population and infrastructure growth have established Dubai as an essential sales point for superyacht manufacturers all over the world.

Abeer AlShaali, Deputy Managing Director of Gulf Craft, said: “For Gulf Craft, Dubai International Boat Show is our home show. We feel a strong connection to the event – we believe in it, and we believe in the power it has for the entire industry. I have been personally having meetings since the day before the show with different stakeholders around the world, talking about the importance of this show. It brings together clients, boat builders, suppliers, associations, like SYBAss. I think it’s a great opportunity for us in the MENA region to really discuss what’s going on in our industry. This is where we get to display our boats and impress our clients and the wider city of Dubai which has really opened its arms to the marine industry.”

Taking place until March 3 at Dubai Harbour, Dubai International Boat Show is showcasing an extensive array of international marine attractions from more than 1,000 different brands, including 400 new companies. And over 200-plus crafts by the world’s leading yachting companies.