We first visited the Dubai Boat Show back in 2010. Back then the distinctive spiral shape of the Cayan tower was still under construction behind the marina. It’s not really a ‘boat’ show – more of a ‘superyacht’ and ‘luxury’ show, set against the soaring glass skyscrapers of Dubai that have replaced the more traditional relationship that the city had with the sea.
With more than 12% of the world’s superyachts in the MENA region, it’s no surprise that Dubai has become one the top-10 nautical hubs of the world within the marine industry – home to several world-class waterfront property developments and many exquisite marinas. Such infrastructure has made DIBS the perfect platform for the more than 1,000 global brands to showcase their wares and launch their latest innovations this year.
With more than 12% of the world’s superyachts in the MENA region, it’s no surprise that Dubai has become one the top-10 nautical hubs of the world within the marine industry – home to several world-class waterfront property developments and many exquisite marinas. Such infrastructure has made DIBS the perfect platform for the more than 1,000 global brands to showcase their wares and launch their latest innovations this year.
Show organisers say that more than 12% of the world’s superyachts are in the MENA region and until now Dubai has not had a lot of competition, supported by access via DXB and Emirates Airlines. But that may soon change with large investments being made by Saudi Arabia to attract superyachts to its shores.
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In 2023, back at Dubai Harbour, more than 175 yachts and watercraft from shipyards such as Azimut, Ferretti, Princess, San Lorenzo, Sunreef will be on display for those with the bank balance to play at the top end of the market. Sunseeker Gulf will make its debut as the new regional distributor of Sunseeker Yachts across the GCC.
Riju George, Group Director, Exhibitions, DWTC says
“We are looking forward to welcoming marine enthusiasts, maritime investors and those who are interested in all things ocean to DIBS23. Dubai has a rich maritime heritage and over the years has created an extensive ecosystem and a sophisticated hub to nurture some of the greatest boat designers and manufacturers in the world; that’s why every year we see an influx of international visitors to the show.”
Newer brands will also be on display including Abeking & Rasmussen, Boutique Yachts, Finnmaster, Greenline Yachts, Nordhavn, SAY Carbon Yachts, Sirena Yachts, and Tecnomar.
The Dubai Boat Show is also a ‘home game’ for the local manufacturer – Gulfcraft. The company will unveil the Majesty 111 – marketed as ‘anything but an average superyacht’.
Mohammed Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman says,
“At Gulf Craft, we have always been a staunch supporter of our ‘home show’ since its inception; as an international manufacturer of cutting-edge yachts and boats we are proud to be part of such a prestigious event on our home ground. We are committed to continue our contribution to the region’s yachting industry and look forward to further supporting the UAE’s reputation as an exceptional global yachting destination.”
It’s rare to see masts or sailboats of any kind at the Dubai Boat Show. Unfortunately most of the focus is on yachts that burn huge amounts of fuel to get from one anchorage to the next.
Elsewhere in the market though, there is a big focus on sustainability and it’s good to see that companies like Silent-Yachts, will be present. These boats are powered solely by clean energy, with solar panels and batteries feeding electric motors.
In the year of sustainability and in the approach to COP28 the Dubai Boat Show is looking at sustainability promoting the launch of the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission to support Dubai’s marine life. The show will a feature programme of initiatives to ‘promote sustainability of our oceans – combining community, creativity, and a love for the marine world.’ It remains to be seen how many single-use plastic bottles end up in the bins around the event.
Book your tickets here: Dubai International Boat Show 2023 tickets
