Dubai: The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) is set to sail the high seas next week with a record 15 world premiers and 25 regional launches planned.
"Global launches are big news for any international boat show and to host a record 15 this year is testament to the strategic importance of the Dubai International Boat Show to the industry, especially in today's recovering economic climate," said Hilal Saeed Al Merri, chief executive at Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers of the show.
DIBS, said to be one of the world's top five international boat shows, received 25,000 visitors last year. Organisers are expecting a similar turnout this year.
Taking place at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), Mina Seyahi, from March 9 to 13 the event will display about 400 boats.
Additional interest is also expected following the Saudi Boat Show, also organised by DIBS, late last year.
"We have generated a lot of interest from the Saudi market and brought clients to this show," said Trixie Loh, senior vice-president of Exhibitions and Events Management at DWTC. She said the Saudi market was an important one for the regional marine industry.
On display will be 26 superyachts, boats of over 21 metres, up from 19 last year.
Nasser Al Sha'ali, chief executive of Gulf Craft, a major UAE boat manufacturer, said the company was seeing a similar level of interest from buyers this year as last.
However, he said that closing deals had become more difficult.
‘Critical buyers'
"We have more critical buyers. The cash though, is still there. It's going to be more difficult though to generate the same results because the market is very different," he said.
Organisers said that Emirates NBD will be present at the boat show for financing.
With around 15,000 berths constructed or under development in the GCC, and half of those in the UAE, the region is well set to absorb any growth in demand. The UAE currently has the largest density of completed and planned marina developments at 45.
More than 700 companies from 40 countries are confirmed for this year's show, which is spread over more than 85,000 square metres.
Austria, Croatia, Mald-ives, Portugal and Tunisia all make their Dubai International Boat Show debut this year.
Companies such as ART Marine, Emirates Boats, Gulf Craft, Al Hareb Marine, Sunseeker Middle East and Al Yousuf Motors will be present.
Sailing the waves of success
- 25 planned regionallaunches
- 25,000 visitors expected toattend event
- 400 boats on displayat the show
