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28 March 2024

Dubai International Boat show 2009

(SUPPLIED)

Published
By Primrose Skelton

What is it? Dubai International Boat Show – from Tuesday to Saturday at Dubai International Marine Club – is the largest, most important boat show in the Middle East. It showcases the best in the marine leisure industry from the latest innovations in marine accessories, products and services to dinghies, luxury liners and super yachts.

Who will be there? This year, which is the 17th event, there will be 600 local and international industry players lined up to showcase the latest developments in everything to do with marine life. There are 721 different companies exhibiting from 50 countries, including Bahrain, Cyprus, Djibouti, Latvia, Thailand and the Virgin Islands for the first time. On display will be 400 boats, yachts and super yachts – the biggest in the boat show's history, as well as experts to give advice. There will be four world exclusive premiers and more than 10 regional launches, the biggest names in the super yacht building industry, jewellery displays, fashion shows, live musical entertainment and a diving pool with a series of demonstrations by the Emirates Diving Association. More than 27,000 visitors are expected to attend.

Is it the best economic climate for such an event? Although the leisure boating industry worldwide is undergoing massive change as its major markets in the US and Europe experience a downturn in demand for new boats, there is still strong interest in the Gulf where leisure boating has witnessed rapid growth in the past five years. While every part of the world is affected by the economic recession the developing world, including the Gulf and Asia is forecast to fare the best.

Is there anything else happening? Yes, on Wednesday from 9.30am to 1pm and on Thursday, the Dive Middle East Exhibition and the Gulf Boating Conference 2009 will be held. Under the Chairmanship of Dr Mohammed Hamdan Al Shamsi, the Gulf Boating Conference seminar, entitled Where is the industry going?, will discuss the industry in the Gulf.

Can anyone go along? Admission is open to the trade and public. Visitors without an invitation must pay entry of Dh55 per day. Access to the marina area may be restricted at times. Children under the age of 12 will be admitted free but must be accompanied at all times. Trade visitors are advised to pre-register online before the show where they can qualify for free entry. Everyone else can purchase a day pass in advance by telephone on 800 4669 or online at www.timeouttickets.com

- More information is available at www.boatshowdubai.com