World’s Yachting Industry Sets Sail for Dubai International Boat Show

Dubai International Boat Show is getting ready to welcome more than 30,000 visitors to the seafront district Dubai Harbour, when the region’s largest, and most established marine and lifestyle event in the Middle East will get underway from 1-5 March.

More than 175 yachts and watercraft from globally renowned shipyards such as Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Princess, San Lorenzo, Sunreef, and Sunseeker Gulf will sail into the shores of Dubai to put on an incredible display over the five days of the show’s 29^th edition.

“We are looking forward to welcoming marine enthusiasts, maritime investors and those who are interested in all things ocean to DIBS23,” says Riju George, Group Director, Exhibitions, DWTC. “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.”

With more than 12 per cent 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.

Alongside over 50 global and regional launches to be announced at the show, DIBS23 will feature a stunning lineup of yachts, with more than 10 new brands on display including Abeking & Rasmussen, Boutique Yachts, Finnmaster, Greenline Yachts, Nordhavn, SAY Carbon Yachts, Sirena Yachts, and Tecnomar. And that’s not all - for those that enjoy life on the waves and who are looking for a luxury vessel for their next adventure; due to be unveiled at the 2023 edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, is Gulfcraft’s the Majesty 111 – described as ‘anything but an average superyacht’ and will set a design precedent, offering more than ever before in terms of its design, engineering, architecture, and technical features.

“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,” said Mohammed Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman. “At this year’s edition of Dubai International Boat Show, we are thrilled to introduce our brand-new Majesty 111 superyacht – a vessel that will redefine industry standards and set the precedent for our future Majesty models. 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.”

Ocean lovers can also explore the ocean with Sunseeker Gulf at its debut as the new regional distributor of Sunseeker Yachts across the GCC; known for exceptional yacht designs and innovative technology, Sunseeker Gulf is poised to impress everyone with its latest offerings.

Explore the latest technology and design within the Equipment, Supplies and Services area, where there is plenty to discover; Elcome, will introduce the Starlink internet connection service, the revolutionary high speed service from Space X, available worldwide, which enables boat owners to connect from the most remote waters across the world to enhance experience and productivity. On the water make sure to stop by Silent-Yachts, the premier ocean-going production yachts in the world which are powered solely by clean energy, with solar panels and batteries feeding electric motors, which will be showcasing a partnership with EV Labs and demonstrating sustainable energy at sea to recharge boats entirely through the sun’s rays.  

The Middle East Yachting Conference (MEYC), 28 February brings together senior representatives from around the industry to hear diverse perspectives from across the global landscape, discuss some of the industry’s key trends around technology, geo-politics, investments and debate the industries strategy and policies of the future in a challenging yet optimistic market; DIBS looks forward to welcoming a diverse panel of speakers from across the seas. Make sure you don’t miss Thomas Weigend, Managing Director of Meyer Werft who are building the remarkable Njord yacht, a 948-foot luxury vessel, described as “the world’s largest private residence yacht” with 117 private apartments, who will take about the ambition of scale and elegance – a fitting tribute to the city of Dubai. A full speaker list and agenda can be found here.

Premiering in Dubai, and hosted at DIBS, is the world’s second edition of the Experiential Yachting Forum from 2 to 3 March, bringing investors into the yachting world and exploring alternative uses of superyachts. Investors, industry leads, and marine enthusiasts will gather to tackle pressing concerns like the alternative use of superyachts and yachting to make a positive impact for the communities at sea and on land. Other topics will grapple with the future of yachts beyond relaxation and exploration, including the possibility of medical tourism at sea. Many prominent personalities from the community will give their views. Find an agenda and speaker list here.

In the year of sustainability and in the approach to COP28 DIBS pushes forward with their sustainability promise and 2023 will see the launch of the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission to support Dubai’s marine life. The show features a programme of initiatives to promote sustainability of our oceans - combining community, creativity, and a love for the marine world. Event partners include Dubai Can, Dubai Harbour, trust your Water, GEMS Schools, Ethical Yacht Wear, and the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team, who in January completed the record-breaking Atlantic Row Mission, raising awareness about ocean pollution – look out for the S.E.A logo around the show for more sustainable initiatives and exhibitors.  

The Dubai International Boat Show is about bringing the community together, because everyone’s world is around the ocean, so even those who like to keep their feet dry should call in for some family fun.

The Leisure Marine Authority, which aims to increase recreational boat ownership in the region, will be at DIBS to give a series of informal coffee talks on budget boat owning, safe and sustainable use of watercrafts, and more. Check out the Dive Pool Shows, test your balance in the kayak and stand up paddle area, join the fishing competition, take in the adrenaline-filled watersport demos, sip a sundowner in Nikki Beach, indulge in tasty treats at Buddha Bar, and soak in the incredible atmosphere at the ultimate event to live a little more.

So, boat owners, adventurers, families, and watchers of the seas and shores, head to DIBS 2023 – a fun-filled nautical showcase that knows no rivals.