The 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) will take place from 28 February to 3 March 2024 and will focus on the sustainability of marine life and the emergence of disruptive technologies.
Hosted by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), this global event will be held at Dubai Harbour, which has the capacity to accommodate yachts up to 160 metres in length. Up to 1,000 brands and 200 boats are expected to participate, including companies such as Azimut, Cranchi, Gulf Craft, Ferretti, Princess, Sanlorenzo, Sunreef and Sunseeker.
Mohamed Alshaali, Chairman of Gulf Craft UAE, excitedly announced: "We are very honored to participate in the 30th Dubai International Boat Show. We look forward to showcasing our latest yachts and innovative maritime technology. This exhibition is a reflection of the evolution of Gulf Craft and our determination to push the boundaries of yachting luxury. ”
Francis Lapp, Founder and President of Sunreef Yachts, also said: "Driving the transition to electrification is critical. With this exhibition, we hope to bring a cleaner yachting experience to our visitors. We want all participants to witness the perfect combination of luxury and sustainability. ”
The exhibition will also feature the Middle East and North Africa Diving Festival, the only dedicated event for the diving community in the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). At the same time, the captain's party will also be held at the same time. In addition, Supercar Avenue will showcase some of the world's rarest and most unique cars, while the Ocean Art Museum will showcase ocean-inspired works by international artists.
The Middle East and North Africa region has the second highest ratio of global fleets to billionaires, currently home to 12.6% of the world's superyacht fleet. According to Knight Frank, the luxury yacht market is expected to grow from $306 million in 2022 to $481 million in 2028. By 2026, the number of high-net-worth individuals in the UAE is expected to exceed 228,000, an increase of 39%.
Trixie Loh Mirmand, Executive Vice President, Event Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, said: "As Dubai continues to grow its marine industry through a growing fleet of yachting facilities, products and facilities, more and more international investors and yachting enthusiasts are drawn to the city to form a comprehensive nautical ecosystem. In addition, the UAE's emphasis on sustainability, including ocean sustainability, has attracted further global attention, which is in line with the country's vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. ”
It is worth mentioning that Dubai has just hosted the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28, which concluded with an agreement that all industries, including the maritime industry, will be free of fossil fuels. This commitment is exemplified by the recently announced Dubai Coral Reef Project, which was launched during COP28 by Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Committee. This is one of the largest coral reef developments in the world, designed to ensure the sustainability of the UAE's fishing industry and support the city's reputation as a responsible tourism destination.
Trixie LohMirmand concluded: "The Dubai International Boat Show is a testament to the region's passion for the maritime sector and Dubai's ability to host internationally renowned events. Since its inception in 1992, DIBS has developed into an international event that is not to be reckoned with, showcasing Dubai's history. ”