Author: Priya

The 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) will be a major highlight in the calendars of water sports enthusiasts in 2024. It’s not just an event dedicated to boats and yachts (although those are the main attraction) – it will also serve as a vibrant showcase for a range of water sports. From adrenaline-fuelled jet skiing to the more gentle pace of kayaking, there will be something for everyone to see at the show’s next iteration, held from 28 February – 3 March at the luxury maritime hub, Dubai Harbour.

Jet Skiing: Speed And Freedom

Jet skiing is a unique blend of speed and exhilaration, offering an immediate adrenaline rush as you glide over the water. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of hopping on and feeling the power beneath you, combined with the thrill of cutting through waves at high speeds. For those new to the sport, it’s an accessible entry into watersports, requiring minimal training to start enjoying the ride. Jet skiing attracts thrill-seekers and those curious about experiencing the freedom and excitement of navigating the open waters. 

Parasailing: Gliding Over The Waves

Parasailing offers an unparalleled view of the magnificent skyline from a bird’s-eye perspective. The feeling of freedom and peace is incomparable as you glide through the air, towed by a boat. This activity not only delivers awe-inspiring vistas but also an exciting sensation of flying, ideal for anyone seeking a novel way to explore the harbour’s beauty. Adding to the thrill, the gentle lift-off and smooth gliding heighten the overall experience, making it a must-try for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Kayaking: A Gentler Adventure

Kayaking is another popular activity, enjoyed and appreciated for its versatility. It offers a peaceful way to explore scenic routes and an effective full-body exercise. People enjoy kayaking for the opportunity to explore the coast or simply to unwind on the water. It’s also a great way to improve cardiovascular health and build muscle, appealing to fitness enthusiasts. Whether it’s a gentle paddle in calm waters or a more active session, kayaking caters to various interests and fitness levels.

You can book a kayaking tour at the Dubai Marina to explore the city’s iconic skyline from a unique vantage point, led by professional instructors and equipped with safety gear.

Diving: When You Want To Explore Beneath The Waves

Diving is an almost surreal experience. Free from gravity’s grasp, you can gently float through the water and see things few people get to see (unless they take a dip beneath the waves themselves). This activity offers a unique perspective of the ocean’s depths, revealing a world rich in colour and life.

At the Dive MENA Expo (co-located at DIBS), diving enthusiasts can expect a showcase of the latest equipment and technology in the diving world. The event presents opportunities to connect with fellow divers, share experiences, and learn about new gear and safety advancements. DIBS provides a platform for seasoned divers and newcomers to the sport, highlighting the essentials for a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

DIBS: Aquatic Thrills For The Whole Family

The Dubai International Boat Show encapsulates the excitement and variety of water sports, catering to enthusiasts of all levels. From the speed of jet skiing to the exploration offered by diving, the event showcases the best of each sport, with fast-paced demos on the open water. The show is an ideal setting for those exploring new water activities or enhancing their existing skills with cutting-edge equipment.Interested in bringing your watersports equipment brand to DIBS 2024? Register your details here.

Boating photography is a popular activity in Dubai, as it allows photographers to capture images of yachts and other maritime vessels set against the backdrop of Dubai’s stunning cityscape. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned capturer of the seas, the Dubai International Boat Show is a visual voyage like no other. Here’s how to ensure the perfect capture of the crafts on display.

Understanding Photo Composition

With their dynamic and unpredictable nature, boating environments pose a unique challenge to photographers. The constantly changing light and motion of the sea demand a keen eye for detail and a flexible approach to composition. Understanding the interplay of these elements is crucial in capturing the essence of the marine world.

The rule of thirds (whereby the image is divided into nine equal segments by two vertical and two horizontal lines) is a fundamental concept in marine photo composition. By positioning key elements of the scene off-centre, photographers can create a more balanced and engaging frame. This technique allows for a more natural flow within the image, guiding the viewer’s gaze across the photograph.

Another important aspect of composition is the use of leading lines. In a maritime setting, elements like a yacht’s railing can draw the viewer’s eye through the image, adding depth and perspective. Additionally, maintaining a straight and level horizon line is essential for avoiding disorientation and preserving the photo’s visual integrity.

Achieving Stability In Yacht Photography

Capturing yachts in motion, such as aboard a moving boat, requires specific photographic techniques. A fast shutter speed is paramount in these situations, as it freezes the action, ensuring that each image remains sharp and clear. Stabilising equipment, like tripods or monopods, becomes essential here, particularly for longer exposures where even slight movements can blur the details.

Photographing static yachts, like those showcased at the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), requires a different approach. Here, the photographer’s movement is minimal, allowing for more flexibility with camera settings. ISO, the camera’s sensitivity to light, becomes a key factor. In well-lit environments, a lower ISO preserves quality without adding grain. In lower light, such as evening displays or under soft exhibition lighting, a higher ISO helps capture the intricate details of the yachts. The balance between ISO and lighting conditions is crucial, especially when aiming to highlight the elegance and design of static yachts with precision.

Photographing Boats Against the Skyline 

When capturing images of boats, particularly against a spectacular skyline (like the one offered by Dubai Harbour), perspective is key. A lower angle can dramatise the boat’s features against the skyline, creating a sense of scale and grandeur. Focusing on contrasts, such as a sea-bound yacht against the land-based backdrop of Dubai’s architecture, adds depth to the image’s narrative. Additionally, experimenting with different focal lengths allows for various compositions, from wide-angle shots encompassing the skyline to telephoto zooms highlighting specific details of the boat.

Responsible Photography

It is important to note that you need permission from the UAE’s Ministry Of Culture And Youth to undertake professional photography in Dubai, especially at high-profile venues like DIBS 2024. This ensures respect for local regulations and contributes to a responsible and enjoyable photography experience. With the necessary permissions, DIBS 2024 stands as a prime occasion for photographing some of the world’s most magnificent maritime vessels. 

Even if you are an amateur photographer, it is essential to be mindful of the local culture and customs, particularly regarding privacy and public decency laws. Being informed and respectful can prevent unintentional offences and enhance your photographic journey at DIBS.

DIBS Is The Perfect Photo Opportunity

Boating life offers a rich tapestry of experiences, extending beyond the vessels to the stories they create. Photographing these elements requires a keen eye for unique perspectives that capture the narrative of the sea. What better venue to capture the essence of maritime life than the stunning and photogenic Dubai Harbour, a seafront district renowned globally for its impressive skyline and architectural beauty?See some of the best efforts by the show’s photography team by following us on Instagram @dibshow and be sure to tag us in your top shots.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a nexus for leisure boating connoisseurs and a gateway to some of the world’s most frequented yachting destinations. Boating enthusiasts from across the globe visit the country, drawn by a blend of historical seafaring traditions and luxurious modern marinas.

Marina infrastructure expansion and a focus on tourism in the past few years have seen the wider region emerge as a foremost centre for leisure boating and a flourishing market for boats and yachts. Across the Middle East, the leisure boats market is expected to grow to US$ 2,947.1 million by 2027 from US$ 1,840.0 million in 2017, growing at a CAGR of 4.9%, predicts Business Markets Insights.

This growth and resilience are encapsulated in the annual Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), which underscores the region’s prominence on the global nautical stage. Each edition of the show sets new benchmarks for boating shows worldwide by showcasing remarkable consumer trends that create new standards for the whole industry. 

As the marinas of Dubai prepare for an influx ahead of the landmark 30th DIBS outing from 28 February – 3 March, we showcase some of the UAE’s top marine destinations, with a few hidden gems beyond the emirates’ borders.

Dubai

Home of DIBS, Dubai stands as a pinnacle of maritime sophistication. The man-made Dubai Marina offers a combination of top-tier facilities and services that set benchmarks in maritime luxury. Home to Dubai Marina Yacht Club, and stunning seafront destination Dubai Harbour, by day, it’s a boaters’ haven and by night a vibrant bustling nightlife waterfront.

Abu Dhabi

A stunning archipelago with over 200 islands, the UAE capital boasts a sailing legacy that stretches back centuries while enjoying state-of-the-art marinas and yacht clubs that offer modern amenities and sociable atmospheres. 

Ras Al Khaimah

The Al Hamra Marina in RAK is a bustling hub where one can appreciate both the beauty of the ocean and the unique coastal topography. Historically, one of RAK’s most celebrated sons, Aḥmad ibn Mājid, was a famous seaman and navigator and the city’s maritime influence extends to the present day; in 2023, long-term DIBS exhibitor Sunreef Yachts Middle East entered into a cooperation with RAK Maritime City for the development of a new facility there.

Sharjah

The Khalid Lagoon offers a maritime locale where typically natural serenity and urban architectural splendour coalesce. Each December, crowds gather for the noise and excitement of the grand prix F1H20 – single-seater inshore circuit Formula 1 Powerboat and Aqua Bike racing.

Fujairah

Aside from its impressive commercial maritime capabilities, Fujairah is a haven for yachting enthusiasts. Deep-sea fishing and coral reef diving here offer more excitement for adventurous souls. Using a yacht as a launchpad for these activities is the perfect way to experience them, whether you opt for a luxury charter service or navigating the waters of the region aboard your own vessel.

Ajman

With its natural port and creek, Ajman’s unspoiled marine environment is ideal for a more tranquil boating experience. It is also the headquarters for one of the world’s leading shipwards and DIBS stalwarts, Gulf Craft, highlighting the emirate’s commercial maritime significance. 

Celebrating The Maritime Potential Of The UAE

At the 2023 edition of DIBS, AED 2.5 billion worth of boats and yachts were on display, with over 1,000 companies and brands from 60 countries, attracting thousands of visitors to explore a diverse range of boats, along with the latest maritime accessories, and technologies.

In 2024, DIBS will again bring the best of the Middle East’s maritime industry together to celebrate the boundless potential of the ocean, expand the frontiers of nautical innovation, and strengthen the communal bond between passionate seafarers.  

We look forward to seeing you at the event! Follow us on Instagram for regular updates: @dibshow