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The Dubai International Boat Show presents an excellent opportunity for exhibitors to network, gain market insights and exposure, and to strengthen their brand identity. Trade shows such as ours can be a good investment in terms of time and money, so it is in your best interest to ensure your time at one of the biggest boat shows in the world is wisely spent. We created this short guide to help exhibitors both prepare for and extract the most value from this year’s iteration of the Dubai International Boat Show.

Set Your Networking Goals

Expanding your professional network can help your business grow by strengthening your reputation and elevating brand recognition for your business. This opens up additional opportunities such as collaborations with seasoned professionals and referrals to industry specialists.

To ensure you maximise your networking potential at the event, compile a list of the exhibitors you wish to connect with and identify the reason you wish to speak to each of them. You can use the Dubai International Boat Show exhibitor list for this. It will give you important information on each attendee (including basic details about the company and their stand number) and will make it easier to navigate the event. You can also utilise our matchmaking tool (Equipment Supplies & Services / ESS) when you create or access your exhibitor profile. It will match you with other attendees and can recommend exhibits that may be beneficial to your business interests.

Remember, if you have a desire to network with other industry professionals, it is just as likely that some of them will want to network with you as well (and may even initiate it). In such instances you should show them the courtesy you would expect if you approached someone for your own networking goals.

Hone Your Pitch

Good first impressions are important, as they generate trust and will make it more likely for people to remember you in a positive way. It is a good indicator of general competence, which will make conducting business easier in the future. That is why you should never neglect your pitch, as it may be the only thing potential business connections and customers may remember you by.

Sharpening your business pitch can help increase your lead-to-customer ratio. With markets being relatively volatile, you need to adjust your pitch regularly to ensure it remains accurate and can still offer maximum business value. The easiest way to do this is to conduct market research on your target audience and estimate which segment of that audience will be in attendance.

Your pitch needs to be informative, but it also has to be stimulating enough to keep people’s attention and to make sure they remember it. Use a combination of explanatory text and supplementary visuals (like videos, posters, and scale models) and keep your target audience in mind when producing it.

Participate

The Dubai International Boat Show is known for its state-of-the-art trade show exhibits, but it is also an event where people can attend informative seminars and business forums. This year’s event will be dominated by two principal figures: the Middle East Yachting Conference (MEYC) and the Experiential Yachting Forum (EYF).

The MEYC is an annual conference that focuses on the yachting industry in the Middle East. Its main goals are to unite all levels of the yachting and boating value chain (from yacht builders and marina operators to captains) under one roof and to discuss the main challenges and opportunities in the yachting industry. Another one of the MEYC’s goals is to transform MENA into a global yachting hub and to help breathe new life into the region’s economy.

The EYF is an official supporting partner of DIBS. 2023 marks the forum’s second iteration, with the first being held in Monaco last year. The theme of this year’s symposium is “Elevating Human Potential Through Yachting”, with the goal being to “change the perception of yachting”. Topics will range from Holistic Yachting to Multifunctional Superyachts, with investment opportunities in the superyacht sector also being discussed.

Enjoy Exclusive Benefits

Attendees will be able to enjoy exclusive rates if they use one of our hotel, restaurant, or travel partners. Discounts of up to 30% for hotels and 25% for restaurants will be offered, in addition to a 20% discount when using our official taxi partner (Careem Taxi). Attendees will also receive a discount on their air tickets if they book plane tickets through Emirates between 22 February and 12 March (discounts will vary depending on booking and flight dates).

With ample networking and business opportunities, trade symposiums, and exclusive vendor discounts, the 2023 edition of the Dubai International Boat Show promises to be a highlight on this year’s calendar.

Follow this link to book your spot as exhibitor (if you haven’t already).

If you’re looking for a day of family fun, look no further than the Dubai International Boat Show! Not only is it one of the best boat shows in the world, it is also a great way for you to spend time with your loved ones. There is something for everyone, with many exciting activities for you and the kids to take part in. Get ready for an unforgettable day and use this short guide to help you choose the most exciting things for you and your family to do!

Boats Galore

The Dubai International Boat Show is a dream come true for boat enthusiasts of all ages. If you like superyachts, then Superyacht Avenue is the place to be. Little ones will enjoy checking out the big boats and there are also smaller exhibits throughout the event that allow you to get up close and personal with the displays. Perfect for a photo opportunity or two!

Thrilling Watersports

Young and old alike will get a taste of the excitement of a marine lifestyle at the Dubai International Boat Show. Enjoy a thrilling array of water sports and water-related activities, including demos of jet skis, fly boards, kite surfing and more.. At the family-friendly Lagoon, there’s the chance to try kayaking and SUP in a safe environment. If you are more interested in what goes on under the water, or if you fancy something different, take your little ones to watch the divers (and a couple of mermaids) in our state-of-the-art dive pool.

Spot Some Supercars

There will be no shortage of things to see. Some of the world’s rarest and most expensive supercars will be showcased to the public at Dubai International Boat Show, thanks to UAE car club Group 63..

Time For A Meal

When the time comes to take a break or grab a bite to eat, head to Nikki Beach. During the day, you can soak up the sun and enjoy the pleasant weather while taking a relaxing break on the beach. When evening approaches, you can sit back and marvel at the stunning beauty of the Dubai Harbour at dusk and the dozens of ships and yachts passing by on their way to unknown adventures.

For casual dining options, F&B area Eatstagram has exciting options including homegrown burger joint Pickl, and, for a sweet treat, the colourful House of Pops.

Keeping Kids Entertained

Bring your kids to our designated Kids Area for fun and educational activities. Your little ones will be immersed in nautical-themed arts and crafts (including a giant art wall), a myriad of exciting games and distractions, and even a boat-themed LEGO station!

For 2023, Dubai International Boat Show has also partnered with the GEMS Education network to showcase artworks made by kids to remind us of the importance of protecting our oceans in a sustainable way. See their handiwork in the Marine Luxury and LifeStyle area of the show. Remember to book your DIBS 2023 tickets before they are sold out. Kids under 12 may enter FREE of charge when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. See you at the show!

Diving plays an integral role in the maritime industry. It is a multifaceted discipline that includes the maintenance of ships and underwater structures, scientific research and conservation, rescue operations, and even filming. The 2023 Dive MENA Expo adds great value to the marine show by giving a platform to experts in the field, as well as people who are passionate about the happenings beneath the ocean’s surface. Conservation and sustainability will be the core focus of this year’s event, with special guest appearances by several world record holders. The expo takes place over two days (from the 3rd to 4th of March), with each day featuring a distinct theme and speakers. In this article we will dive into both days, giving insight into each theme and providing a short biography for each speaker.

Diving Heroes

The expo kicks off with the theme of Diving Heroes, which is about celebrating the incredible achievements of some of the industry’s greatest figures. These are the people who have risked everything to descend into the depths, whether for a noble, practical, or adventurous purpose. The industry would have looked very different without these people taking the plunge and setting an example of what is possible with the right preparation and mindset.

Our first hero is Ahmed Gabr, a former Egyptian Army officer and two-time world record breaker. His records include World’s Deepest Scuba Dive (332.35m on open circuit scuba) and organising and taking part in the World’s Largest Underwater Cleanup. Ahmed participated in the US Army Combat Diver course and is the only certified US Combat Diver in the Middle East.

The second hero speaker for the day is Jarrod Jablonski. Jarrod is a renowned researcher and cave explorer and is known for setting the record of longest ever cave penetration in a deep cave. Jarrod and his dive buddy Casey McKinlay reached 7900m in the Wakulla Springs cave system and their exploration of this cave system eventually led to another record being set for the longest cave diving traversal at 11km, which took more than 7 hours. Jarrod is also known for launching and operating the world’s deepest diving pool, the Deep Dive Dubai.

Our third hero is Bárbara Lang-Lenton, Director of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP). This organisation is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of sea turtles in the Middle East. DTRP has a collaborative partnership with Dubai’s Wildlife Protection Office and it is one of the first projects of its kind in the region t. Bárbara is a staunch environmentalist and enjoys sharing her passions with others.

Blue Ocean

The second day’s theme is Blue Ocean. This theme focuses on the topics of sustainability and the importance of raising awareness in the field of ocean conservation. The ocean plays a critical role in the lives and livelihoods of everyone on the planet, from serving as a source of food for billions to producing oxygen and regulating the climate. Protecting it and encouraging long-term sustainability is thus an essential component of the welfare of the human race.

The first speaker of the day is Yuriy Rakmuttlah. Yuriy is passionate about freediving and teaching the skill to others. He is a certified instructor for AIDA, PADI, EFR, Apnea Academy, and Molchanovs. Additionally, he also serves as a board member for AIDA UAE and as a B-level judge on the AIDA judging panel.

Faisal Jawad Hassan is the second Blue Ocean speaker, and perhaps one of the most inspirational speakers at the event. After being rendered paraplegic in a tragic accident at the age of 20, Faisal faced a period of severe depression. Learning to dive was part of his recovery process and he went on to break the record for fastest 10km scuba dive (at 5 hours and 24 minutes), which was previously held by an able-bodied diver.

The final set of speakers consists of Arabian Ocean Rowing Team members Fahim Al Qasimi, Toby Gregory, James Rale, and Rai Tamagnini. They were the first UAE team to row across the Atlantic Ocean completely unsupported, from La Gomera (off the coast of Africa) to the island of Antigua & Barduba, an island in the Caribbean. The team’s efforts, which were part of a grueling race across the Atlantic Ocean, raised a lot of awareness for the Clean Seas conservation campaign.

Dive With Us

Whether you are a seasoned diver or someone who has never even set foot in the water, there will be something for you to see and learn at the 2023 Dive MENA Expo. Join us at the event and discover the stories of men and women who serve as pioneers in the industry!

Don’t forget to purchase your ticket for the Dubai Boat Show 2023! Divers get FREE entry – all you need to do is click here to register and upload a copy of your diving license.

The marine industry plays an important role in economic growth across the globe, and the Middle East is no exception. The maritime sector drives economic development in the region through job creation and supporting several industries, including marine vessel building and maintenance, offshore exploration, logistics, and various other coastal construction projects and development opportunities.

The marine industry contributes a staggering US$24.5 billion to the GDP of the UAE (US$415 billion, which means the industry makes up nearly 6% of the total figure). In this perspective article, we unpack why the Middle East has become a popular investment destination and how the maritime industry contributes to its growth and development.

The Lucrative Investment Potential Of The Middle East’s Maritime Sector

The region has vast coastal areas, access to highly strategic shipping routes, and an abundance of natural resources like oil and valuable minerals. All of these factors contribute to making the Middle East a bustling maritime hub and has allowed it to emerge as a prominent figure in the industry. Each sector below contributes to economic growth, making the region more lucrative for potential investors.

• Natural resources
  The region is rich in natural resources such as petrochemicals (oil and natural gas), metals (copper), and minerals (phosphates, gypsum, and silica). These resources have a wide variety of applications and represent a prosperous industry unto themselves. Tapping into these resources requires significant domestic and foreign investment, which can help establish the Middle East as a commodity hub.
• Logistics
  The shipping and transportation of goods is a major pillar of the industry, as it supports every other aspect of the marine economy. The region has strategic access to major shipping routes and serves as a connecting point between East and West. Capturing a share of the Middle Eastern logistics market can thus be a highly profitable venture.
• Tourism
  The region attracts millions of tourists annually (8.08 million for UAE and 4.88 million for Saudi Arabia alone), all of whom are eager to spend their money on new and authentic experiences. Boating and yachting make up the most popular recreational activities, but diving and watersports are not far behind. The yachting industry in the Middle East alone will be worth more than US$1.2 billion by the year 2025. The right kind of investments will only serve to accelerate growth in this market.
• Infrastructure Development
  Dependable infrastructure is necessary for the survival of the entire industry. While new construction developments can help expand the industry by utilising the vast undeveloped areas along the coastline, it is also important to invest in the maintenance and upgrading of existing infrastructure to enhance its usability and to help meet the demands of the rapidly expanding industry. An example of this is the US$1.1 billion expansion of the Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, which will allow the port to accommodate much higher sea traffic volumes, which in turn will support all the industries mentioned above and Dubai International Boat Show’s new home of Dubai Harbour, the largest superyacht marina in the Middle East.

An Industry That Continues To Thrive

Most countries and governments in the Middle East have launched major reinvestment initiatives and infrastructure expansions to take advantage of the marine industry’s vast potential. Countries like UAE, Bahrain, and Oman have also committed to easing legislation around maritime permits and to streamline application processes. The removal of bureaucratic red tape and the complete digitisation and automation of the industry is ensuring faster turnaround times, which will ensure the longevity of the region’s economic success.

Superyachts are in high demand in the region, with exhibitors at the Dubai International Boat Show reporting that the five-day event is attracting buyers worldwide.

New launches and exciting concepts evidenced this growth period, as more than 44 global and regional launches are expected to take place throughout the week, while more than 1,000 of the biggest names and brands in the marine industry are showcasing their latest innovations.Visit the Dubai International Boat Show, the premier marine show in the Middle East, to witness the latest and greatest in the industry and seize the chance to find lucrative investment opportunities.

The 2023 iteration of the Dubai International Boat Show saw thousands of visitors flock to the five-day event to discover their world around the ocean at the region’s largest and most exciting marine and lifestyle show. Hundreds of diverse and dynamic exhibitors from the marine industry were also in attendance at the Dubai Harbour to showcase products, innovations, and experiences from more than 1,000 brands and network with other industry professionals at a range of conferences and events. One such participant was Swiss Yachts, which exhibited at DIBS for the first time this year. In the article below we will explore how Swiss Yachts managed to leverage DIBS to grow their brand.

More About Swiss Yachts

Swiss Yachts is a luxury yacht rental and charter business that specialises in high-end yachting and boating experiences. The company was founded in 2021 as a collaborative enterprise between its Swiss and German founders with a primary goal was to elevate the standard of luxury yachting in the United Arab Emirates and to establish themselves as a leading provider of luxury boating experiences in the region.

According to Ahmad Nazieh, a Sales Manager at Swiss Yachts, clients can expect an affluent adventure with an experienced captain and crew on board to take care of their every need. Trips last an average of four hours (depending on time booked) and can include a range of activities, such as sightseeing, sunset trips, and family events. Clients can also customise their nautical trip for an additional fee, from adding crystal clear sparkling beverages and fresh fruit platters to more adventurous optional activities like jet skiing, diving, or fishing.The global yacht charter market size reached US$7.9 Billion in 2022 alone. According to IMARC Group, this figure will grow to US$12.9 Billion in 2028, with an average growth rate (CAGR) of 8% expected between 2023 and 2028. Growth in the marine tourism sector and a rising demand for authentic luxury travel experiences have boosted the yacht chartering industry, with new companies like Swiss Yachts emerging to seize the exponentially increasing opportunities in the sector and to standardise a new model of renting and chartering that meets the needs of a new client generation.

How Swiss Yachts Leveraged DIBS

As a first-time exhibitor at the Dubai International Boat Show, Swiss Yachts wanted to showcase its first-class fleet of Ferretti Yachts, Pershing Yachts, and Galeon Yachts, as well as network with other professionals in the maritime sector. Not only were they able to achieve these goals, but they were also able to engage with potential clients and gain significant market exposure and insight into their target market.

As a company that prides itself in consistently updating its fleet with the latest technology, Swiss Yachts was also able to gain a lot of valuable insights from networking with other exhibitors who were showcasing new advancements in maritime technologies and cutting-edge innovations.

DIBS 2024: The Ultimate Opportunity To Showcase Your Brand

Regarding their debut at DIBS 2023 as being a resounding success, Swiss Yachts has vowed to attend the 2024 event edition of the Dubai International Boat Show. It will be an opportunity for them (and other exhibitors like them) to expand their reach, gain valuable industry insights, and network with other professionals to potentially grow and increase their market presence.We look forward to welcoming Swiss Yachts and other valued new and returning exhibitors at the 2024 edition of DIBS. Follow our home page and social media for the latest updates on the next edition, whether you are a potential client looking to book a stand or a visitor interested in visiting the region’s largest and most spectacular boat show.

The conference, seen throughout the regional maritime community as the prime meeting spot for the sector’s leaders and advocates, explores an array of topics impacting our shores, seas, and waterways.

The maritime industry’s most pressing issues were unpacked by some of the sector’s most prominent changemakers at the annual Middle East Yachting Conference, which annually acts as the forerunner for Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), the Middle East’s largest maritime show

Opening the 2023 event, His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General: Dubai Sports Council, and Adviser to the Dubai International Boat Show, described the conference as an important, unifying force that brings manufacturers, suppliers, and government authorities together to drive innovation and transformation. Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President – Events Management: Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of DIBS 2023, echoed His Excellency’s sentiments and said that the great coordination at the government level across the UAE is driving significant expansion across the leisure boating ecosystem. “Initiatives like the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda will play a transformative role in the leisure marine boating industry in the years to come. We will be building international bridges to a lot of events destination hubs as well, to make sure we increase the export and investment opportunities for all,” she said.

Tremendous Potential

In the first of the day’s in-depth panel discussions, (pictured centre) Abdulla Bin Habtoor, Chief Portfolio Officer of SHAMAL, the developers of Dubai Harbour, where DIBS took place this year, said the wide range of coastline projects taking place across the region are driving “tremendous” potential for the regional maritime industry. “Ever since we first started on the Dubai Harbour project back in 2016, our mission always revolved around how we could create an ecosystem that provided our residents and visitors with the marina lifestyle. Not only do we have a 700-berth marina, but we also have a dedicated super yacht marina,” he said. “We are really committed to rekindling the connection between residents and the sea.” Sustainability infused all discussions at the conference, which is echoed in the S.E.A (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission taking place across the DIBS event including sustainable food options and solar-powered generators on site,

According to Francis Lapp, CEO of Sunreef Yachts, sustainability touches every part of the yachting industry. “Boat owners want to see everything from solar power and electric engines to eco-friendly materials being used in boat interiors, as well as alternative green fuels,” Lapp explained Millennials and Gen Z clients, in particular, are not just interested in concepts such as electric engines, but rather a completely sustainable lifestyle. Marinas today have to reflect this transformation and shift towards sustainability.”

Industry is Responsible

The shifting demographic of boat ownership also came under focus during conference discussions, along with the impact that these High Earners Not Yet Rich (HENRYs) are having on the industry. Paris Baloumis, Group Marketing & Brand Director at Oceanco, said the responsibility lies with the industry to attract the younger market to the yachting lifestyle. “From what we’ve seen, the younger generation is still focused on building their empires, and are not necessarily ready to engage in a four or five-year-build period. We as the industry can change this by showcasing the enjoyment of yachting, and highlighting that the experience doesn’t start when the yacht is delivered; it starts during the build process.”

As the yachting industry takes strides to lessen its ecological footprint and reach out to a younger audience, the importance of collaboration was emphasised by Abeer Al Shaali, Deputy Managing Director of Gulf Craft and Chairperson of Leisure Marine Association MENA, the key that will continue to unlock opportunities for further evolution across the industry. “While it can be challenging because different cities have different maritime authorities and different rules and regulations, you have to remember that everyone is working together as part of one ecosystem,” Al Shaali said. “It is very important to keep users at the heart of the experience and really understand their needs when creating a framework for the marine sector.”

Bringing in Wealth

“Yachting has certainly proven to be very robust,” said Yerin Hobson, CEO of Arrow Monaco, in a panel that explored whether inflation, rising costs of materials, sanctions and investment trends in the region could capsize the yachting industry. “We do have issues, for example in the regional and global supply chain, as well as when it comes to negotiating with shipyards to cover risk when it comes to inflation. But, I do not think the tipping point is approaching. History has proven that it’s up to us to ensure that yachting is still attractive and that we bring wealth into yachting.”

The Middle East Yachting Conference – sponsored by Oceanco, Arrow Monaco and My World of Yachts – was followed by the Dubai International Boat Show 2023, which ran from 1 – 5 March at Dubai Harbour and featured more than 1,000 exhibiting companies and brands from over 60 countries.

The Dubai International Boat Show 2023 showcased the latest sustainable innovations and advancements in the yachting industry. The 29th edition of the show, which took place at the Dubai Harbour, saw prominent yacht manufacturers accelerate efforts to promote environmental sustainability, in line with the increasing demand for greener yachts and an industry-wide movement towards protecting our oceans.

The Middle East’s largest and most established boat show was a proud industry changemaker attracting exhibitors showcasing eco-friendly materials and electric engines, as well as other solutions aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the yachting and water sports industries. Prominent distributors and brands leading the charge include Silent Yachts, as well as the JLS Training Institute, OKTA core, Magonis, Cummins Arabia, Sunkiss, Ocean 360, and the GEMS Education network.

While some emerging energy technologies are still in various stages of development, a number of options available today can make a big difference.

Push for green energy

Silent Yachts, which exhibited at Dubai International Boat Show 2023 for the first time, produce the first ocean-going production yachts in the world powered by solar energy, which is used to charge the batteries and run the electric motor. According to General Manager Ahmed Almousawi: “This makes them carbon-free and the process is as sustainable as can be. They are called Silent Yachts because they truly are silent; you won’t hear any noises or feel any vibrations as you would from a traditional yacht fuel engine. Not only does this make the yachting experience more pleasurable, but it also protects the coral reefs and the marine life.”

As the exclusive UAE dealer for the Ferretti Group brands, including Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing and Itama; Ocean 360 has seen greater integration of green energy technologies into the full spectrum of yachting products, says Bogdan Borascu, Marketing Director of Ocean 360. To cater to this demand, Ferretti Group has allocated a significant budget towards research and development, which is mainly focused on renewable sources of energy such as solar power. New advancements in solar energy technology today have meant that it is possible to power entire yachts through renewable energy.

Ferretti Yachts’ new Infynito line is a prime example of this trend, featuring yachts that are fitted with a solar roof that generates electricity to charge the onboard lithium battery pack. Bogdan also mentioned that the industry is seeing a lot more innovation in watercraft and water toys. “Here, we see that the push for green energy is even stronger and easier to achieve, because of the smaller size of the craft,” he said at the show. “In line with this, Belassi, the ocean manufacturer of the Burrasca – a marine hypercraft – is preparing to introduce a fully electric stand-up jet ski. We also have the SEABOB brand, which, since its inception, has focused on green energy and they have electric-powered water sleds.”

New Initiatives at DIBS

To lock in its commitment to a greener way of living on and off the water, the S.E.A Mission: Sustainable, Environmental Action was introduced at Dubai International Boat Show this year. A programme of initiatives promoted the sustainability of our oceans and as the premier marine lifestyle event, visitors also found a range of solutions that cater to a sustainable way of living for consumers.

Sunkiss, a luxury sun care brand, exhibited its sustainable products, packaged in ‘forever bottles’ – refillable, reusable, and made from recyclable aluminium bottles. “We partnered with the Dubai International Boat Show because we are very much aligned with the sustainability factor. Our aim is to help encourage and educate people about the importance of not only what you put on your skin, but also what goes into the ocean,” says Joanna Barclay, Co-founder of Sunkiss. “The response to our products was fantastic. It’s all about closing this whole circular economy and minimising the use of any plastic considerably.”

Combining community, creativity, and a love for the marine world, this year’s edition also partnered with the GEMS Education network in the UAE to celebrate World Whale Day with a fun art competition. A huge 13-metre whale crafted from recyclable materials is on display, along with posters created by students to promote sustainability. Asha Alexander, Executive Leader – of Climate Change at GEMS Education and Principal of GEMS Legacy School says the institution is “delighted to have contributed to this year’s Dubai International Boat Show and to have had the opportunity to help put sustainability and the preservation of our precious oceans and marine life front and centre during such a prominent event. GEMS is proud of everyone’s contribution and we thank the Boat Show for their partnership and support.”

Highlighting Industry Commitment

By bringing together industry leaders and innovators, the Dubai International Boat Show continues to offer a vital stage for the maritime industry to showcase its efforts towards accelerating sustainability and adapting to the evolving needs of customers. With a focus on showcasing the latest advancements in sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices, the show is a testament to the industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Dubai International Boat Show 2023 ran from 1 – 5 March at the Dubai Harbour.

A Round-Up of Marine Innovation and Technology That Was Unveiled at the Show

Dubai International Boat Show 2023 showcased the most cutting-edge technologies in the marine industry at the Middle East’s largest superyacht marina, Dubai Harbour. As one of the most prestigious events in the global boating calendar, the show attracted leading brands and industry leaders from around the world to unveil the latest products, designs, and technological advancements that are driving the industry forward.

From smart shipping, autonomous technology, advanced materials and more; the show provides a platform for global industry leaders to present the most inventive breakthroughs to the local and regional market. With over 1,000 brands presenting the latest in marine excellence to over 30,000 ocean lovers and industry insiders, the show is annually the ideal platform to witness first-hand the integration of next-generation technologies and how they are being applied across the marine industry.

Largest marine equipment event

Many of these technological innovations were found at the show’s Equipment, Supplies and Services (ESS) exhibition, the largest marine equipment event in the Middle East, which serves as a platform for consumers and buyers from all over the world to find all of the marine essentials and specialised equipment needed to keep their boats afloat. More than 200 brands representing 51 countries demonstrated the future of marine living in real-time, including Cummins Arabia, Cobham, Elcome, Finixa, Garmin, Seakeeper, Sontara and many more.

Cummins Arabia, a leading manufacturer of engines and generators, used the event to exhibit its 45KW hydrogen fuel cell model, which can be used to generate clean power for stationary and mobile applications.

Although still at the prototype stage for use in the recreational yachting industry, once it reaches the market, Vivek Vincent, Engine Sales Manager for UAE, Cummins Arabia, said the latter would successfully reduce operating costs by reducing or removing the need for fossil fuels completely, which is also extremely beneficial for the environment.

The game-changing product attracted the attention of Dubai Boat Show visitors, with Vivek adding: “This is our second year exhibiting at the boat show and the experience so far has been fantastic; the turnout has been amazing and we are seeing a lot of footfall even on the weekdays.”

Presenting passenger safety solutions

As well as seeing trade visitors expressing interest in sustainable tech, the 29 th edition of the show, which took place in March 2023, also saw demand for the latest technological innovations for security, safety, and passenger experience.

Elcome, a provider of technology solutions for yachts and sports fishing boats, displayed its range of solutions for making operating boats safer, more entertaining, and more efficient. The company has become one of the first global partners for SpaceX, for its Starlink high-speed Internet service, which provides high-speed Internet with low latency on boats of all types anywhere in the world. Jimmy Grewal, Executive Director, Elcome, described Starlink as a “revolutionary service” and said that Elcome is “very pleased with the response that we are getting from our global customers at the show, and we are working hard to ensure that they are able to take full advantage of the capabilities of the system.”

Dubai-based MPE presented a range of brands at the show that includes the latest colour management systems. Cromax uses a next-generation web- and cloud-based technology that helps body shops and boat refinishers improve productivity and achieve a perfect colour match quickly, reliably and efficiently. Gulfam Mirza, Technical Manager for MPE praised his experiences at the show, adding “the response from our customers has been great and we have received some fantastic feedback.”

For the 2024 instalment of the Dubai International Boat Show, even industry players are expected to showcase their latest innovations and technological advancements, driving the industry forward. With a growing demand for sustainable and efficient solutions in the marine industry, we can anticipate welcoming even more exciting breakthroughs.