Dubai International Boat Show sees spectacular growth in international companies and brands with 40% increase in superyachts

Dubai gathers the world’s major marine players, widest range of water crafts and latest innovations

As the regional marine market experiences strong growth, the Dubai International Boat Show has confirmed to date that 19 of the world’s most luxurious superyachts will be showcased. This represents a 40% increase from last year with the figure expected to grow in the coming weeks. In addition, the newly established Super Yacht Experience, which falls under the umbrella of the prestigious global Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss), confirmed 11 members are already committed to the Dubai International Boat Show.

The 21st Dubai International Boat Show will provide a platform for the widest range of boats in the GCC, latest innovations, world premieres and regional launches. The event kicks off from March 5-9, 2013 at Dubai International Marine Club – Mina Seyahi, attracting over 750 companies and brands. More than 26,000 visitors, 5,000 VIPs and high net worth individuals are expected to flock to the event.

Strong international participation – Turkey grows eight times larger than 2012

Exhibitors from more than 49 countries will take part including debut appearances from Malta, Armenia and Malaysia. Eight country pavilions are confirmed this year while Turkey returns to the Dubai International Boat Show with the biggest confirmed floor space of 800sqm – eight times larger than 2012. The state of Florida (US) will have a new dedicated pavilion due to strong demand from the United States.

A new feature enhancing this year’s show includes multiple industry-leading educational and experiential sessions are taking place over three days. During the Seminars and Workshops, experts will address the latest industry trends, technologies and regulations. Exhibitors will also have an exclusive opportunity to meet, network and develop new business opportunities and relationships with key buyers in an interactive environment.

Major marine industry players confirmed

On water the Dubai International Boat Show will host the biggest superyachts available in the region. Among the major superyacht players displaying their latest models and designs are AMELS, ART Marine, Benetti, Fincantieri, Gulf Craft, Heesen Yachts, KaiserWerft, Lürssen, Mondo Marine, Oceanco, Palmer Johnson, Sanlorenzo, Sea Pros, Sunseeker, Trinity Yachts and Westport.

Erwin Bamps, Chief Operating Officer at Gulf Craft said: “The Dubai International Boat Show continues to be one of the most important showcases of our capabilities – especially in the luxury superyacht category – within one of the most significant global markets for larger-scaled yachts. We have a number of exciting concepts to debut across our entire product range. With encouraging signs of recovery across the luxury industry in the past year we are very positive about the potential the boat show presents this year.”

“BehneMar as one of the region's leading yacht consultancy is thrilled to showcase its state-of-the art yachts to this affluent market. With this strong presence BehneMar is contributing to the array of the world’s largest and most luxurious superyachts at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show as a testament to the growing market and the increasing demand for boats and yachts,” said Hisham Abu Shakra, Executive Director, BehneMar Middle East LLC.

Key exhibitors returning to the show include Al Shaali Marine, ART Marine, Aquaspeed, Azimut Yachts, Emirates Boats, Exalto, Elcome, Gulf Craft, Gulf Development Systems, Heinen & Hopman, IMG Boats, Japan Marine, Luxury Sea Boats, Macky Marine, MTU, Princess Yachts, Sunseeker and Al Yousuf Yamaha. Many companies and brands have a larger presence this year such as Japan Marine and specialists in GPS technologies Abdulla Mohammad Ibrahim General Trading representing Garmin. Newcomers this year include Omani yacht interior company, Gumwood Yacht Interiors, and National Paints among others.

Rapidly-growing marine market

“Considering Dubai is a gateway to the affluent Middle East and Asian luxury buyers’ market, in which one third of the world’s largest superyachts are owned by GCC nationals, the Dubai International Boat Show has cemented its position as the region’s largest and most preferred sales platform. The Middle East has established itself as one of the fastest growing leisure marine markets in the world and the show continues to be a major factor in driving the marine industry’s business in terms of research, product sourcing and networking opportunities,” said Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the event.

The Dive Middle East Exhibition (DMEX) segment of the show has seen a 35% expansion this year with new international exhibitors from France, Germany, Oman, USA and more.

Key segments of the show also include the Marina Display area, comprising the largest on-water display in the Middle East; Luxury Supplies & Services housing the finest luxury fixtures and fittings from around the world; and Equipment Supplies & Services, an indoor area filled with exhibitors specialising in products essential to the supply and servicing of the leisure marine industry.

The Supercar Promenade complements the strong line-up of segments at the Dubai International Boat Show. Now in its third year, the Supercar Promenade showcases the world's most exclusive vehicles on four wheels alongside high-end marine crafts. Manufacturers and dealers will be situated within the purpose-built promenade at the Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi.

Among the prestigious key sponsors that are welcomed back to Dubai International Boat Show again this year is luxury watch brand Officine Panerai as a Supporting Partner. Mercedes Benz is supporting the event as the official car while the official footwear partner is Crocs. Leading private jet manufacturer Bombardier joins the show as a major supporter for the second year.

The 21st Dubai International Boat Show will be held at the Dubai International Marine Club – Mina Seyahi from March 5-9, 2012 and will be open to trade visitors and the general public from 3pm – 9.30pm daily.