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[Photo credit: DWTC / DIBS]

The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) has once again proven itself as a must-attend gathering for the marine industry. This year’s event brought together exhibitors and visitors from more than 60 countries, showcasing a mix of international innovation and local expertise. Beyond luxury yachts and high-end watercraft, the show highlighted homegrown brands, emerging technology, and the latest advancements in maritime security.

Innovation Hub: A Launchpad for Start-ups

The introduction of the Innovation Hub at DIBS provided a platform for start-ups in the marine industry. Supported by Yachting Ventures, this initiative helped new businesses from the UAE and beyond introduce their products and connect with investors and partners. Start-ups from Kuwait, Egypt, and France were among those exhibiting, offering solutions that tackle efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the maritime sector.

Among the featured companies:

• Airmarker, which develops signal balloons to assist vessels in distress.
• Hydroflyer, a company designing electric hydrofoil crafts.
• Waves, a mobile application that simplifies boat travel bookings.
• Mulca Technologies, which introduced a fractional ownership model for yachts.
• Yacht Coin, a cryptocurrency aimed at the luxury motor yacht market.

For many of these start-ups, Dubai served as a prime location for growth. Lionel Pean, President of Seafloatech, emphasised that DIBS provided a crucial opportunity for emerging companies to test their products and attract early adopters.

Proudly UAE: Local Expertise and Craftsmanship

The Proudly UAE segment at DIBS once again put the spotlight on local companies that have solidified their reputation in boat building, marine services, and maritime innovation. Brands such as Ocean Boats, Nomad Marine Services, and Al Fajer Marine LLC presented their latest advancements, showcasing the quality and craftsmanship that define the UAE’s marine industry.

Flavio Gatti, Manager at Al Fajer Marine, underscored the event’s importance for UAE manufacturers. Operating from Dubai Maritime City, the company displayed three vessels, including a 60-foot monohull from the Bullet series. Equipped with five engines producing 2000 HP, the vessel exemplified the high-performance design and engineering that local brands are delivering to the market.

Dubai International Marine Club also played a key role, reinforcing its status as a driving force behind marine sports and leisure activities in the UAE.

Dubai Police: Protecting UAE Waters with Cutting-Edge Technology

The Dubai Police exhibit, a highlight at DIBS each year, featured smart security services, AI-powered monitoring technologies, and environmentally friendly electric patrol boats. The introduction of the ‘Sail Safely’ service aimed to enhance emergency response efficiency and strengthen safety measures in UAE waters.

Colonel Ali Abdullah Al Qusib Al Naqbi, Deputy Director of the Ports Police Station, stated that these innovations reflected Dubai’s ongoing efforts to improve maritime security through advanced technology.

DIBS 2025: The UAE’s Maritime Ambitions in Action

DIBS 2025 reinforced the UAE’s growing influence in the marine industry. The Innovation Hub provided start-ups with a springboard for expansion, while established UAE brands strengthened their international presence. Dubai Police’s advancements in maritime security underscored the country’s commitment to innovation on all fronts. With strong local participation and a diverse global presence, this year’s event demonstrated that the UAE is not only keeping pace with industry trends but is shaping the future of maritime technology and business.

[Photo credit: DWTC / DIBS]

The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2025 set the stage for major yacht unveilings, high-stakes deals, and a growing focus on yacht brokerage. Buyers and industry leaders gathered at Dubai Harbour, exploring a mix of brand-new launches and exclusive pre-owned offerings. The energy was unmistakable as luxury vessels, both fresh from the shipyard and expertly maintained brokerage yachts, drew serious attention. With demand for ready-to-purchase yachts rising, the event reflected a shift in how buyers approach ownership in the region.

Yacht Brokerage Gains Momentum

Yacht brokerage became a key focus at this year’s show, as more buyers turn to pre-owned vessels for their next acquisition. Unlike new builds that require extensive lead times, brokerage yachts offer immediate availability, often featuring premium upgrades and a proven track record on the water. Leading brokerage firms, including Burgess and Bush & Noble, presented a diverse selection of yachts, from well-maintained cruisers at USD 160,000 to multimillion-dollar superyachts that redefine luxury.

This increased interest marks a shift in buyer priorities. Many are now favouring brokerage yachts for their faster turnaround, established reliability, and the ability to inspect a vessel in its finished state before purchase. With an expanding selection of top-tier yachts available, buyers at DIBS 2025 have more options than ever to find a vessel that aligns with their needs and lifestyle.

Key Yacht Debuts and Industry Announcements

The day also saw a string of high-profile yacht launches and industry announcements. Sunreef Yachts unveiled the Sunreef Ultima 55, the first yacht built at its UAE shipyard – a sign of the region’s growing influence in global yacht production.

Pardo Yachts made its Middle East debut with the Pardo 38 and Pardo 43, showcasing sleek Italian design and performance-driven engineering.

Meanwhile, Gulf Craft introduced eight new models as part of its 18-yacht showcase and confirmed the upcoming launch of a superyacht service centre in Ajman, strengthening the UAE’s maritime infrastructure and expanding its role in luxury yacht services.

[Photo credit: DWTC / DIBS]

Lamborghini 63 Draws Crowds

Among the more eye-catching moments of the five day show’s second day  was the Middle East debut of the Lamborghini 63, a yacht inspired by the eponymous brand’s signature speed and aerodynamic design. Blending luxury with high-performance engineering, the vessel offered visitors a rare opportunity to step aboard and experience its bold aesthetic firsthand.Nearby, Supercar Avenue attracted enthusiasts with an impressive lineup of rare and high-performance models, including the Lamborghini Revuelto and the Countach. Meanwhile, the Dubai Police exhibit turned heads with a display of customised jet skis and high-powered patrol vehicles, reinforcing the city’s reputation for combining maritime excellence with cutting-edge technology.

[Photo credit: DWTC / DIBS]

A Strengthening Market for Luxury Yachting

Dubai’s role in the global yachting industry continues to expand, with brands strengthening their presence across the region. Azimut is among those expanding its reach, with five new offices set to open across Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait – further reflecting the Middle East’s growing prominence in the luxury yacht market.With more announcements and launches expected in the coming days, DIBS 2025 continues to offer yacht buyers, investors, and enthusiasts an unparalleled look at the latest in the industry. Whether purchasing a new build or exploring the expanding brokerage market, this year’s event showcases the full spectrum of luxury yachting opportunities.

There is still time to purchase tickets before the event ends. Book now!

Noise has long been an unavoidable part of life at sea, but that’s changing fast. Yacht owners are now seeking quieter vessels, pushing shipbuilders to rethink how yachts are designed and engineered. Reducing engine noise and vibration isn’t just about comfort – it changes how people experience time on board, making it easier to relax, hold conversations, and enjoy privacy. The push for silent yacht technology is reshaping expectations, with quiet vessels becoming the new standard in luxury yachting. This article explores the growing demand for quieter yachts and the solutions making them possible.

The Unwanted Guest: How Noise Disrupts Life At Sea

Noise affects every aspect of life at sea, from relaxation to privacy. Mechanical sounds from engines, generators, and air conditioning systems can disrupt sleep and conversation, diminishing the overall experience. A quieter yacht offers a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy their surroundings without distractions. 

Effective soundproofing enhances privacy by limiting how far voices and other sounds travel throughout the yacht. Conversations held in one cabin stay within that space, without leaking into hallways or neighbouring rooms. This is especially important on luxury yachts, where guests expect discretion and a sense of personal space. By controlling noise transfer between communal areas and private quarters, soundproofing helps maintain a more intimate and secure environment. The result is an onboard experience that feels both exclusive and comfortably detached from the activities happening elsewhere on the vessel.

Innovations in Soundproofing and Materials

Advances in materials and design have led to significant improvements in yacht soundproofing solutions. Engine rooms are now equipped with multi-layered insulation to block mechanical noise from reaching living spaces. Vibration-dampening systems, including flexible engine mounts and couplings, reduce the transfer of vibrations through the hull. Hull designs have also evolved, with optimised shapes and materials that minimise hydrodynamic noise. Active noise control technology, similar to that used in high-end headphones, is being integrated into yacht interiors to neutralise ambient sounds. These innovations collectively enhance the onboard experience by reducing unwanted noise.

Rethinking Propulsion

The shift towards hybrid and electric propulsion systems has played a significant role in reducing onboard noise. Traditional diesel engines generate considerable noise and vibrations, which can disrupt the comfort of guests. In contrast, quiet propulsion systems like electric motors operate smoothly and silently, offering a more serene cruising experience. Hybrid systems allow yachts to switch between power sources, optimising performance while minimising noise. These systems not only reduce sound levels but also require less maintenance, as they exert less mechanical strain on components. As propulsion technology advances, quieter operations are becoming a standard feature in modern yachts.

The Yachts Setting The Standard

Several yacht manufacturers have successfully integrated silent yacht technology into their latest models. The Sunreef 80 Eco is a good example, featuring solar panels and electric propulsion that deliver near-silent operation. Another vessel that has demonstrated impressive noise-reduction capabilities is Feadship’s Savannah, which incorporates a hybrid propulsion system combined with advanced noise insulation to deliver a quiet voyage. These yachts demonstrate how noise-reduction technologies can directly improve the quality of life on board, making silent cruising a defining feature of modern sailing.

What’s Next For Silent Cruising?

Noise reduction in luxury yachts will advance with new materials and propulsion technologies. As lightweight, high-performance soundproofing materials improve, yachts can achieve better acoustic insulation without compromising on design or weight. Simultaneously, the development of quieter electric and hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems is redefining what owners can expect from both performance and onboard comfort. Yet, as these innovations evolve, yacht designers face the ongoing challenge of balancing silent operation with power and efficiency – a task that becomes increasingly complex with larger vessels. The future of silent cruising will depend on how well the industry integrates these advancements while meeting the growing demand for both comfort and capability at sea.

For those interested in the latest advancements in yacht engineering, the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) offers an opportunity to see these innovations firsthand.

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Some yachts never leave the marina. They sit docked in prime locations, not out of neglect, but by choice. For their owners, these vessels serve purposes beyond sailing – as investments, social spaces, or simply private retreats. This shift in use has shaped a distinct culture within the maritime world, blending financial strategy with lifestyle choices. This article explores the reasons behind static yacht ownership and its growing presence in modern marinas.

Status Symbols On The Water

For some yacht owners, vessels are statements of prestige rather than tools for seafaring. These marina-bound luxury vessels are treated as valuable assets, reflecting wealth and influence in exclusive dockside communities. In locations like Port Hercules in Monaco or Dubai Harbour, the visibility of a yacht holds as much importance as its seaworthiness. Owners use their yachts as private venues for gatherings, reinforcing their social standing within elite circles. The mere presence of these vessels in high-profile marinas speaks volumes about their owners’ positions.

Financial And Strategic Benefits

Economic considerations often underpin the decision to keep yachts stationary. Docked vessels incur lower maintenance costs since they avoid the wear and tear associated with frequent sailing. Some jurisdictions offer tax benefits or reduced fees for permanently moored yachts, creating financial advantages. Retaining a yacht in a prestigious marina can also protect its condition, ensuring it remains in prime shape for future resale or use. These financial factors influence many owners to prioritise static overactive use.

The Value Of Location

The scarcity of berths in prestigious marinas adds another layer of value to static yacht ownership. While the primary investment often lies in securing a berth, the yacht itself can benefit from being associated with a sought-after location. Yachts moored in high-profile marinas can see their market value enhanced due to the prestige of their docking location. In some cases, selling a yacht with an accompanying berth, if allowed by marina regulations, can command a premium price.

Marina Life And Social Networking

Marinas are more than just docking facilities; they foster exclusive communities where yachts serve as focal points for social interaction. Owners of marina-bound luxury vessels often participate in a lifestyle centred on dockside events and networking opportunities. The Dubai Harbour, for example, hosts a range of activities (including public events like the Dubai International Boat Show) that bring together yacht owners and enthusiasts. For many, the community aspect of marina life outweighs the desire for open-water adventures. Yachts become extensions of the owners’ social lives, offering spaces for connection and leisure without leaving the marina.

Technology And The Rise Of Floating Retreats

Advancements in technology have transformed yachts into stationary retreats equipped with modern amenities. Many vessels now feature climate control, advanced entertainment systems, and stabilisation technology, ensuring comfort even while docked. Integrated smart systems allow owners to manage onboard environments effortlessly, making static yacht ownership more appealing. These technological improvements provide the convenience of a private getaway without the demands of maritime travel. As technology continues to evolve, the appeal of keeping yachts docked is expected to grow.

The Ghost Yacht Phenomenon

Not all stationary yachts are symbols of prestige. Ghost yachts, or vessels abandoned or left to deteriorate, pose challenges for marinas worldwide. These high-value boats often become neglected due to ownership disputes, unpaid fees, or simple disregard. Ghost yachts, such as the infamous half-built superyacht Bella T in Cape Town, South Africa, illustrate the complex challenges marinas face with abandoned vessels. These yachts can remain untouched for years due to unresolved ownership disputes, financial complications, or legal entanglements. Their presence not only consumes valuable dock space but also poses safety and environmental risks as they deteriorate. Marinas often have limited legal authority to intervene, with processes to reclaim or remove such vessels being both costly and time-consuming.

Explore Yacht Culture At DIBS

Static yacht ownership highlights a shift in how vessels are valued and used. Whether as status symbols, financial assets, social hubs, or floating retreats, these marina-bound yachts reflect a distinct culture within the boating community. While some yachts fall into neglect as ghost vessels, many remain integral to the exclusive environments of prestigious marinas. 

Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show will encounter a range of yachts that illustrate these varied ownership styles, offering insight into the diverse roles vessels play beyond the open sea. This evolving culture continues to shape the modern yachting landscape, both in Dubai and globally.

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