[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.
