DIBS REVIEW 2023

We all know about the ‘Dubai Bubble’; the imaginary cocoon that we live in, that supports our economy and keeps us sheltered from many of the world’s problems. Currently the real estate boom is producing some massive numbers and for the UAE’s marine industry, it’s no different on the water.

The Dubai International Boat Show, held back in early March was the biggest for many years and the feeling around the marina and in the exhibition halls was one of expectation and opportunity. A large increase in exhibitors (both local and international) over previous years led to a boat show that for 2023, with all its problems, steered the way in terms of atmosphere and positivity.

THE SHOW

In a change from last year, visitors entered the show from a side entrance, before heading to the ticket lanes, or the exclusive VIP welcoming area. There was no obvious footfall funneling like the Cannes Yachting Festival’s ‘one way system’ and this ‘open world’ layout allowed showgoers to choose exactly what they wanted to see; head left to the exhibition halls; head right to the UAE pavilion and food stalls, or go straight ahead to the marina display.

As to be expected, Gulf Craft had the biggest showing in the marina, showcasing its new Majesty 111 and Nomad 101 superyachts. Also on show was the Majesty 120, the Majesty 100, Majesty 72 and Majesty 62, along with a number of other boats from the Umm Al Quwain shipyard’s Nomad, Oryx and Silvercraft brands. Mohamed Hussein Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman, commented: “As the leading yacht manufacturer in the region, we are proud to be part of the Dubai International Boat Show. We are grateful to the team in bringing this event to life yet again that celebrates the UAE’s vibrant yachting sector while paying tribute to our country’s rich maritime heritage. As in previous years, we will leverage the show to showcase our industry-leading yachts. This year we debut the Majesty 111, our superyacht anchored in our company’s proud legacy while guided by our vision of the future that prioritizes nature-inspired aesthetics built around sustainability.”

Joining Gulf Craft in the marina were many of the yachting world’s most respected brands, with Azimut Benetti, the Ferretti Group, Sunreef Yachts, Sunseeker, Princess Yachts, Cranchi and Say Yachts all having a large presence at the show. Local shipyards were also well represented with Al Rubban Marine, IMG Boats, Invincible Boats, Ocean Boats, and Riviera all having craft on show.

As for the exhibition halls, these were not only hugely supported, but also the quality of the stands and the exhibitors was much improved over previous years. Whether you were interested in a new outboard motor, teak decking or the latest fish finder, the likes of Exalto Emirates, Navi Safe Engineering, Elcome, Al Yousef, Delma and Xtreme Marine had you covered.

From an educational perspective, DIBS also had numerous forums including the Middle East Yachting Conference, the Experiential Yachting Forum, Dive Talks and the Coffee Talks, which featured well-known speakers from the local industry.

At the conclusion of the show, it was estimated that over 30,000 visitors enjoyed the event, making the most of the five days of of demonstrations, displays, seminars, launches, workshops and of course, the boats, motor yachts and superyachts.