What started as the Watersports & Powerboat Show, an indoor event launched in 1992 to cater to a specialized market, the Dubai International Boat Show has developed into a not to be missed, world-class event tailored for yacht, boat and water sports enthusiasts in the region. Now in its 25th edition, the event will take place on Feb. 28-March 4, 2017 at its much expanded home in the Dubai International Marine Club, supporting the growth of the region's boat and yachting industry and attracting visitors and businesses from all sectors of maritime trade. "The UAE and Dubai have witnessed massive developments to their maritime infrastructure over the past 25 years, and the Dubai International Boat Show continues to grow in tandem, standing as a testament to the country's thriving marine industry," said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Events Management, DWTC. "In the past, we have seen some amazing projects and the growth of the show have helped inspire a community interested in discovery and exploration, and visitors of the show look to it as weather vane for the industry; to measure the current climate of regional market." Growing from an indoor show with 55 exhibitors and 3,000 visitors in its first edition, to a world-class event that welcomed 26,000 visitors from 120 countries in 2016, this year's edition of Dubai International Boat Show will provide experiences to both buyers of boats and yachts as well as to visitors with a variety of water sport interests. With a total of 41 registered launches this year and more expected confirmations in the coming weeks, the exclusive reveals will take place on the marina among the over 800 companies and brands showing off the latest in marine design and technology. Now with more choices of small to mid-sized boats on offer than ever before, the Dubai International Boat Show has opened up the market to affordable boating, offering visitors an array of vessels that target all price points and budgets. Added LohMirmand: "When the event launched, we brought together a niche selection of specialized exhibitors who provided services for their specific target audience. Now, after two name and venue changes, the Dubai International Boat Show hosts a diverse pool of exhibitors encompassing all aspects of the marine industry, offering a platform for companies to do business as well as educate visitors." UAE-based Gulf Craft, an exhibitor since the inception of the show and an internationally respected brand, sees the event as a key date in its calendar. Erwin Bamps, CEO of Gulf Craft, said: "The Dubai International Boat Show has grown significantly in size and scale, reaching both a regional and an international audience. It is also well positioned in terms of both time and geography, taking place in a global business hub that is home to a rich sea-faring heritage. "Dubai and the wider region are witnessing a rapid waterfront transformation, and there will undoubtedly be a growing interest in the yachting and boating lifestyle. The possibilities of water leisure are changing every day, and through this extensive range of onsite activities, the show allows guests with varying interests to both explore and experience these possibilities in one location. Recording $22million of sales off the back of 2016's show, the home-grown brand has a positive outlook the Dubai International Boat Show's 25th edition. Added Bamps: "As this is our home event, we look forward to participating in it year after year The show serves as not only a key international platform for showcasing our latest creations, but also as an opportunity to represent the UAE as a global player in the leisure marine industry." Gulf Craft will return to the Dubai International Boat Show for the 25th time and are one of many international brands ready to take advantage of the unique opportunity to mix with the world's biggest players in the industry. Among the global brands on display are a number of veteran exhibitors which include decking manufacturers Wilks and SYBAss member Oceanco who have participated in the show since the first edition; and superyacht manufacturers Sunseeker Middle East, exhibiting for their 11th year. Local supplier and long-standing supporter of the show, ART MARINE view the event as a strategic approach to target the Middle Eastern market, and have forecasted another positive year in showcasing their collection. Gregor Stinner, CEO of ART MARINE, said: "Our presence at the 25th edition of Dubai International Boat Show is a continuation of the momentum that we have gained from our support over the past 12 years. This year, as official dealers we are proud to host the Ferretti Group corporate pavilion, showcasing a wide range of luxurious yachts from the group's brands that have made headlines across the world. "As the most important sales platform in the Middle East, the Dubai International Boat Show has proved an excellent event for us and we again present an exciting mix of new designs for clients of all styles of luxury yachting." In addition to seasoned participants, the event welcomes a host of first-time exhibitors eager to establish themselves in the UAE. Aiming to capitalize on a globally recognized boat show positioned in an expanding market are Chinese superyacht manufacturer, Heysea Yachts; Emirates-based marine service provider, DP World and spare parts supplier, Yamamotor International; and Ortega Submarines from The Netherlands. — SG
