With world-class marinas and a dynamic yachting infrastructure, the yachting hub of Dubai attracts not only the superyacht class but an elite circle of high net worth individuals.
Author: Mark Oliver
Gulf Craft’s New-Look Majesty Superyacht
The first Gulf Craft model to feature both exterior and interior design by Phathom, the muscular Majesty 111 includes shipyard firsts like a master suite with jacuzzi view, feature staircases topped by a skylounge skylight, and a remarkable six cabins in a 34m flybridge.
Port of Call
Maritime experts address current yachting topics around sustainability in boating, adventure tourism, dive talks more in intimate sessions.
PRESSR: Gulf Craft Group celebrates one of its most successful years yet at the 30th Edition of the Dubai International Boat Show
Gulf Craft Group has made waves at the Dubai International Boat Show by securing the sale of over 1,100 footage overall during the 5-day event. This achievement marks one of the most successful boat shows in the company’s recent history.
Dubai International Boat Show teases new format following agreement with Dubai Harbour
The yachting industry is set to witness a significant boost in the Middle East following a fresh pact between the esteemed Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) and Dubai Harbour. This collaboration ushers in a new era for the yachting community, positioning the premium marina as an ideal ongoing backdrop for a top-tier boat show.
Dubai International Boat Show announces long-term partnership with host venue Dubai Harbour
- New agreement offers Dubai International Boat Show and the global yachting community great opportunities for growth
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.
L to R – H.E. Saeed Hareb, Abdulla Binhabtoor, Mohammed Al Shaali, Trixie LohMirmand
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Opens 30th Anniversary Edition of Dubai International Boat Show
- Running until March 3, the MENA region’s largest and most established marine lifestyle show will unite the global nautical industry at Dubai Harbour
- Five-day anniversary show brings together more than 1,000 brands and 200-plus crafts from 55 countries – including major yacht launches
Dubai, UAE – 28th February 2024: His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), and Chairman of Dubai Airports today openedthe 30th anniversary edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, the largest and most established marine lifestyle show in the MENA region, which is organised by Dubai World Trade Centre.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum toured the five-day event at Dubai Harbour accompanied by numerous dignitaries, including His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, and His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General at Dubai Sports Council, and Senior Advisor to Dubai International Boat Show.
The Middle East’s premier marine lifestyle showpiece, which features more than 1000 brands from 55 countries, is attracting the global nautical industry in the emirate, with more than 200-plus crafts making up the water and land display. The first day of the show saw 46 launches including new yachts from Behnemar, Sunseeker and Azimut.
During the opening tour H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum visited the event’s iconic Superyacht Avenue, stopping to speak with various international sector leaders and several UAE-based boat builders, including Lürssen Yachts, Azimut and Benetti. The homegrown contingent on the VIP tour included Gulf Craft, the legacy Dubai International Boat Show partner, which is presenting 11 vessels at this year’s show.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum also stopped to engage with various local, regional and international companies specialising in marine-based equipment, supplies and services across the luxury lifestyle marine sector including Carter & White, as well as speaking with Al Yousuf Motors, the exclusive distributor of Yamaha in the UAE.
In addition to the impressive display on water and land, Dubai International Boat Show is home to an array of family-friendly activities for visitors to enjoy, including Hypercar Avenue, which is home to rare and exceptional automobiles, a Watersports zone featuring jet skis, fly boards, eFoils and more for adrenaline lovers, as well as a fishing competition and kid’s area. Visitors can also experience the dedicated Dive MENA area and ‘Proudly UAE’ zone, which spotlights manufacturers and products championing the UAE’s maritime diversity.
The world’s first ever jet suit race also took place at Dubai Harbour today, seeing competitors from eight countries, including the UAE’s Ahmed Al Shehhi race using jet engines to navigate a predetermined course.
Running from February 28 – March 3, boat owners, captains, divers, and trade visitors can enjoy complimentary entry on registration, while individual tickets start from AED 60. Kids under 12 go free.
To purchase tickets for Dubai International Boat Show, please click here.
Beneath The Waves: Highlighting Dive MENA And The DIBS Dive Pool
The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) is about much more than only boats and yachts. It is also the only event of its kind for the UAE and GCC diving communities. This article will provide a short overview of the diving (and related) activities at DIBS 2024, giving a clear view of what dive lovers can expect at the show.
Dive MENA
The Dive MENA event at DIBS is a prominent gathering for diving aficionados, where the latest advancements in underwater exploration are on display. Participants can engage with professional divers, marine biologists, and underwater photographers, all sharing their experiences and knowledge. The event emphasises the importance of oceanic conservation and sustainability, presenting innovative solutions and practices that aim to protect our aquatic ecosystems. Dive MENA offers a comprehensive platform for networking, learning, and discovering the newest technologies and techniques in the world of diving.
The Dive Pool
The DIBS Dive Pool offers a family-friendly array of demonstrations and opportunities for attendees to safely immerse themselves in the world of diving. It features an engaging lineup for both diving enthusiasts and newcomers. The schedule boasts interactive sessions such as bubble making and underwater games, alongside practical demonstrations on the nuanced use of diving gear, including techniques for using gear with a single breath and exchanging equipment between divers.
Entertainment at the dive pool includes divers performing underwater, with activities such as dancing and engaging in a series of choreographed movements. These performances provide a unique backdrop for attendees, who can enjoy watching these displays while relaxing and having a coffee. A segment dedicated to exhibitors showcases diving trials for those interested in experiencing scuba diving firsthand, covering everything from initial training to the dive itself. The event rounds off with competitions in equipment assembly and underwater gear-up, highlighting speed and proficiency.
Meet The Speakers
Diving experts from around the world come together at the Dive MENA Expo to show off their knowledge and research about what’s in the deep blue sea.
Hear about marine conservation and tourism, and celebrate 20 years of sea turtle rehabilitation with the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project founder Barbara Lang-Lenton. Hear about the history and achievements of the project, which is the first of its kind in the region and running since 2004. We will also hear Fahim Sultan Al Qasimi, an advocate for ocean conservation, to discuss sustainable seafood sourcing.
Other speakers include Nico de Corato, ultra-marathon runner and heli rescue diver; and Toby Gregory, who will speak on the challenges and triumphs of navigating the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
Get Your Tickets!
Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to dive into the event itself. DIBS promises an engaging and informative experience for all its visitors, with the Dive Pool positioned strategically within the Food & Beverage area to offer both refreshment and entertainment. The show serves as a beacon for the maritime community, drawing together enthusiasts from across the globe to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the underwater world. This year’s lineup, from the insightful Dive MENA sessions to the interactive dive pool activities, underscores DIBS’s commitment to the diving community.
With so much to see and do, securing your tickets to DIBS becomes essential for anyone passionate about maritime adventures and underwater exploration.
Dubai International Boat Show Set To Begin Its Maritime Showcase With Raft of Exciting Activities for Visitors
- Middle East’s largest marine lifestyle show celebrates three decades of global seafaring success at iconic Dubai Harbour
- His Excellency Saeed Hareb: “It has been incredible to witness the show’s growth and enduring power to unite the global maritime industry in Dubai”
Dubai, UAE – 26 February 2024: The highly anticipated 2024 Dubai International Boat Show, the region’s largest and most established marine lifestyle show, is embarking on its historic 30th edition at the Dubai Harbour, planning to bring together the entire maritime community from enthusiasts to experts and everyone in between.
Taking place from 28th February – 3rd March, the nautical show is set to display an extensive array of international marine attractions from over 1,000 different brands, including 400 new companies, from leading yachting companies including Ferretti, Azimut, Sunreef and Cranchi Yachts. With 200-plus crafts expected to be berthed at the event, Dubai International Boat Show continues to underline its commitment to supporting leading superyacht manufacturers with nine Super Yacht Builders Association Members (SYBAss) in attendance.
Global launches and unique yachts
UAE-based super yacht builder Gulf Craft is set to present more than 10 vessels, ranging from leisure boats to award-winning super yachts, including a global first reveal.
In addition to the impressive array of launches brought by leading yacht builders, the popular annual Dubai event promises to mesmerise visitors with events and activities that will take place across the five days.
Visitors can also enjoy the Hypercar Avenue, designed for car enthusiasts and collectors to see rare and exceptional automobiles at the show. The multi-million-dirham exhibition provides a unique glimpse into automotive magnificence, blending luxury with innovative design. Some of the rarest cars in the world will come together in one location including a Bugatti Chiron, McLaren Speedtail and Pagani Huayra.
Adrenaline lovers can get their fix of thrills at the Watersports area with a variety of displays including jet skiing and fly boarding, with professionals ready to demonstrate their talents.
Dubai’s International Marine Club holds the finale of its hotly contested fishing competition at the show, while mini maritime fans can enjoy the designated Kids’ Area with fun and educational activities themed around the love of the ocean, including face painting.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the show offers numerous culinary options catering to all cravings. Taste buds can be satisfied with an array of options from food trucks available ranging from refreshing poke bowls to savoury pizzas, with a selection of vegetarian and vegan offerings, as well as premium coffee for caffeine lovers.
A welcome return for 2024
This edition will once again, welcome the Nikki Beach Resort Lounge to wow visitors with its delectable and diverse menu of ocean inspired meals, healthy salads, creative sushi rolls, appetisers, and variety of refreshing cocktails, alongside a lively atmosphere with the renowned beach club’s resident DJs.
‘Proudly UAE’ will celebrate local boatbuilders and supply companies while Dive MENA will showcase the cutting-edge underwater technology and equipment, and discuss and innovations in diving tech. It will entail an exciting agenda of entertaining activities such as underwater games, exciting scuba diving experiences, and fun water-based competitions, offering the only event of its kind for UAE and GCC diving communities, both professional and keen amateurs alike.
Both local visitors and international tourists will find something to enjoy at the Dubai International Boat Show. From boating enthusiasts to families seeking entertainment, or those appetite for marine-related activities, Dubai International Boat Show 2024 aims to create an inclusive and engaging environment that transcends expectations.
Visitors can purchase tickets here.
