Boat show sets sail for UAE capital

Abu Dhabi will be showcased as an emerging centre for leisure as the capital hosts the first Emirates Boat Show International.

The exhibition, which will run from November 25 to 27, is being hosted by Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADMISC).

The boat show will attract more than 150 exhibitors, and 200 boats will be on display in the water and onshore at ADIMSC.

Visitors will be able to view a range of the latest leisure marine products, from multi-million dollar motor yachts to jet skis, wakeboarding boats and equipment, sailing dinghies and diving gear, marine accessories and electronics. The show will be open to trade and the public.

The boat show has also secured bookings from some of the best known international brands include Aicon, Azimuth, Bayliner, Beneteau Yachts, Cabo, Carver, Doral, Elegance, Four Winns, Gulf Craft, Hatteras, Jeanneau, Larson, Mastercraft, Maxum, Palm Marine, Princess Yachts, SeaRay, Silver Craft, Tige and Wellcraft.

Ahmed Al Romaithi, Member of the Executive Committee of ADMISC, said the show would reflect the vast amount of marine-related development and infrastructure planned or under construction for the emirate.

Saeed Hareb, Chairman of organiser Knotika Holding, said: "Abu Dhabi is an obvious choice for a boat show as it is the richest of the oil-laden United Arab Emirates, has a large expatriate population and is aiming to transform itself into a global tourist destination.

"Abu Dhabi benefits from a cosmopolitan outlook in a politically stable country with a liberal economy.

"Diverse sports and leisure pursuits are part of the active lifestyle residents enjoy in Abu Dhabi and the recently announced 2009 Formula 1, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari Theme Park and Warner Brothers Theme Park are all situated on the Yas Island, a 2,500 hectare development.

Forbes magazine recently reported Abu Dhabi as the world's richest city. Responsible for more than 90 per cent of the UAE's oil production, Abu Dhabi possesses the fourth largest oil reserves in the world. According to media reports, Abu Dhabi has an investment fund exceeding $800 billion (Dh2.9 trillion) with more than $140bn in government and privately-funded development projects under way in Abu Dhabi.

Dubai International Boat Show will take place between March 3 and 7 at Dubai International Marine Club at Mina Seyahi.