Dubai International Boat Show 2025: everything you need to know
Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) will open this week, running 19 to 23 February. The 31st edition of the show is expected to attract more than 30,000 visitors at Dubai Harbour and will showcase over 200 yachts and watercraft.
Brands featuring at Dubai International Boat Show include Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, and Yachts One.
Sanlorenzo will bring four models of its Yacht Business Unit, representing three of its most revolutionary lines: the SL90A, the SD96, the SX88 and SX112.
Wally is set to make its debut in the Middle East with the wallytender48X (below), which will be presented at the upcoming Dubai International Boat Show. The model on display in Dubai has 4 Mercury, state-of-the-art 450hp Verado R outboard engines.
Cantieri di Pisa and Pulina Exclusive Interiors will be unveiling the new interiors of the Akhir 44 during their private press conference at the show.
Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, the five-day event is taking place for a fourth consecutive year at the Dubai Harbour.
With a rise of 12.28 per cent in yachts visiting the UAE in the 2023/2024 season, organisers says DIBS underscores Dubai’s commitment to accelerating yacht tourism and furthering the city’s position as a top global destination for maritime activities.
Media registration for the boat show opened earlier this month.
Mohammed Alshaali, chairman, Gulf Craft says: “The Dubai International Boat Show has always been more than an exhibition for Gulf Craft – it is a celebration of the incredible journey Dubai has taken to become a global marine and superyacht hub. Over the years, this show has mirrored the country’s bold vision, showcasing world-class innovation and connecting us with a diverse audience of enthusiasts, investors, and pioneers. For Gulf Craft, it is an opportunity to highlight not just our achievements but our shared commitment with Dubai to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the maritime world. We are honoured to be part of this iconic event that continues to set new standards for the industry and the region.”
The Dubai International Boat Show expects to attract visitors and exhibitors from 60+ countries, including, new for 2025, Croatia, Japan, Luxembourg, Romania, Singapore, and Slovenia.
Marine startups in Dubai
With cornerstone events a significant contributor to the ongoing development of Dubai’s economy, DIBS provides not only a platform for established shipbuilders and suppliers, but also a space for startups and entrepreneurs to make their mark on the sector. An Innovation Hub, which launches at the 2025 edition of the boat show, expects to provide a platform for eight of the industry’s newest SMEs.
Dubai’s growing marine economy
“Entering its 31st edition, the Dubai International Boat Show continues to evolve in response to the shifting dynamic of the maritime industry,” says Trixie LohMirmand, executive vice president, Dubai World Trade Centre. “This year, we are introducing new avenues to expand opportunities for our audience—from a dedicated brokerage section, where buyers can explore a premium selection of pre-owned yachts through expert intermediaries, to an Innovation Zone designed to empower SMEs driving the future of marine technology. As the region’s leading platform for the yachting and maritime sector, DIBS remains at the forefront of innovation, investment, and industry collaboration.”
“As the host and long-term partner of the Dubai International Boat Show, we are proud to contribute to maritime advancements with state-of-the-art facilities and the largest marina in the region that continually sets new benchmarks for luxury and service. Welcoming the 31st edition of the iconic event, we reaffirm our commitment to enhancing Dubai’s status as a premier superyacht destination and global maritime hub, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of yachting and seafront living, ” said Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal.
Organisers say this year’s event has a growing focus on sustainability, with exhibitors showcasing ongoing efforts to promote a more environmentally friendly maritime sector and further underpinning the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030.
This year, DIBS has also evolved into a key stage for luxury real estate, showcasing waterfront projects from developers such as Damac, Sobha Realty, and Omniyat that reflect a growing demand for bespoke marina living. The new brokerage section features Burgess, Behnemar, and Royal Yachts, among others.
