Dubai Boat Show returns with new venue

The Dubai International Boat Show returns this week after a two-year hiatus, at a new location in Dubai Harbour.

Running from 9-13 March, the show is the first to take place at the sprawling Dubai Harbour.

Opened in 2020, Dubai Harbour is on reclaimed land and is located between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah. Its marina can house yachts up to 160 metres in length and offers 700 berths. Now the largest marina in the Middle East, it covers an area of almost 2 million square metres.

Organisers Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) say the five-day Dubai International Boat Show will welcome over 400 boat, yacht and watercraft brands including the world premiere of Sunreef’s 80 Eco Line, the all-new Princess Y85, and a regional debut for Sanlorenzo’s SX88. A lineup of more than 50 floating stalls from brands such as Feadship, Majesty, Nomad, Cranchi and Lurssen, will also be on display.

“As Dubai International Boat Show moves into its new home, Dubai Harbour, we look forward to enhancing Dubai’s status as an internationally renowned superyachting destination,” says Trixie LohMirmand, executive vice president, events management, DWTC. 

“The challenges of the last two years have sparked a desire for a more outdoor, spatial lifestyle, which in turn promises new growth opportunities for the industry. The leisure marine industry has continued to thrive in this period, while building on its ability to attract a wider and more diverse buyer base. Dubai International Boat Show offers that pivotal platform and opportunity for buyers and enthusiasts to finally appreciate the offerings of yachts, boats and accessories in their search for a creative and empowering passion.”

Dubai ranks among the top 10 nautical capitals worldwide, with 15 marinas providing more than 3,000 berths. The emirate’s maritime sector accounts for approximately seven per cent of its GDP.

“Dubai has established itself as a globally renowned city, bringing the world’s attention to the United Arab Emirates and the entire Middle East region,” says Mohammed Hussein AlShaali, chairman of Gulf Craft. “We are witnessing significant growth and demand from the leisure maritime industry here in the region and around the world.”

In February, Marine Industry News reported how Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), the government entity responsible for organising marine sports activity in the Emirates, and P&O Marinas signed a joint agreement aimed at boosting marine activities, academies, promoting sailing as an international sport and bolstering Dubai’s watersports offerings.

Visitors to the show can pick up print copies of Marine Industry News from the World of Yachts stand, in the Marine Art Gallery Lounge.