H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum opens 19th edition of spectacular Dubai International Boat Show

H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum opens 19th edition of spectacular Dubai International Boat Show


Better Value the Key for Exhibitors and Buyers

01 March 2011

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The 19th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show was opened today (Tuesday) by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, marking the beginning of the Middle East’s most highly anticipated marine event, and a record number of global and regional premieres.

Thousands of visitors attended the first day of the show, where 425 yachts and boats are on parade, including a record 30 regional launches and 11 global premieres from some of the most prestigious names in the boating industry. Boating buyers and enthusiasts can choose from more than 750 leading companies and brands from 42 countries, presenting the very latest leisure marine products and services in a region famous for breathtaking yachts and stunning marinas.

“We are extremely grateful to H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed for his support and presence at the Dubai International Boat Show 2011,“ said Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the event. “For nearly two decades, this show has been the focus of the Middle East’s marine business and it is now one of the five largest international boat shows anywhere in the world. It is a spectacular showcase for those companies who see the enormous business potential in this region and Dubai is perfect in terms of infrastructure, geography and international trade experience to realise that potential. The Dubai International Boat Show is both an industry leader and a global attraction.”

The Dubai International Boat Show is recognised as the Middle East’s most successful marine sales event in the Middle East showcasing the widest range of boats, yachts, equipment and services. And with every item on display for sale, from dinghies to superyachts, the event caters to experts and beginners alike.

Bangladesh, Czech Republic, Monaco, Oman, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Ukraine are all taking part for the first time, and the show’s international presence and importance is growing still further. But regional marine businesses are expanding and diversifying to meet the demands of a new market.

ART Marine, a Middle East marine powerhouse, will have a total of 23 boats, including eight regional launches and Bahrain’s Al Dhaen, in its first appearance at the show will present three world premieres.

Abdulla Al Fahal, Director - Administration, Al Dhaen Group of Companies said: “Today’s industry is very much about being adaptable and presenting the customer with value, innovation, new ideas and new ranges. The Dubai International Boat Show is an excellent opportunity for us to put these concepts and ideas forward and to expand our reach. Al Dhaen is currently expanding into different sectors and there is no better way for us to illustrate that than at this show. We have excellent brands at excellent value for this week’s visitors.”

Another of the region’s leading marine companies, Gulf Craft has been supporting the event since its first edition in 1992 and will show 15 boats this year, including three global premieres. Erwin Bamps, Chief Operating Officer, said: “The Dubai International Boat Show is without doubt the most important platform for the entire leisure marine industry across the wider Middle East. There is no bigger or more relevant event for the regional industry and it consistently delivers the full range of products and services, and for us it is the key platform for our winter and spring launches. In many cases, there is a shift towards smaller and medium sized boats to making boat ownership more accessible and affordable, and with the larger yachts, although prices remain steady, there are far more value added benefits, which is ultimately good news for both the companies and the customers.”

As well as the record number of launches, the 2011 show has many other ‘firsts’, including more Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss) members than ever before in its 19 year history. World brands such as AMELS, Benetti, Burger Boat Company, Feadship, Fincantieri, Heesen Yachts, Lürssen, Oceanco, Sanlorenzo and Trinity Yachts are showcased in the Enhanced Superyacht Pavilion.

The Enhanced Superyacht Boulevard is dedicated to some of the most spectacular yachts on display and the nearby External Area will house high-speed powerboats, fishing and family leisure boats plus water sports equipment and accessories. A Luxury Supplies and Services Area includes high-end marine accessories and the finest interior designs, and an Equipment Suppliers and Services Area features deck fixtures and fittings, engines and navigation equipment.

The first ever Supercar Promenade will run alongside the show, showcasing the elite of the motoring world, including Rolls Royce, Bentley, Porsche, Brabus, Hamann and Invader, with a 436kph speed sensation and the latest model of the classic 911 Carrera on display.

The 5th Dive Middle East Exhibition (DMEX), the only dedicated diving exhibition in the region being held in association with the Emirates Diving Association has doubled in size and features live demonstrations and daily 'try-a-dive' sessions.

The Heritage Village from the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing takes visitors back in time to Dubai’s rich maritime history and music, draws and major prizes including jet skis, wakeboards, digital cameras, holiday trips, luxury charters, and scuba lessons will be running throughout the show.

Mercedes-Benz/Gargash Enterprises, Vertu, and Gulf Finance are the Official Sponsors of the 19th the Dubai International Boat Show, with Officiene Panerai acting as Official Supporting Partner. The show is open from 4pm to 9.30pm and admission is AED 55 per person. Complete event details are available at www.boatshowdubai.com, while ticket inquiries may be made at www.timeouttickets.com.

About Dubai International Boat Show:
www.boatshowdubai.com

Dubai International Boat Show, the most trusted and established marine industry exhibition in the Middle East, is a showcase of yachts and boats from both local and international builders together with the latest innovations in marine equipment and accessories.

Established in 1992, the multi-award winning show showcases the latest Leisure Boats, equipment and associated services in the Middle East:

• Exhibitors include both local and international boat manufacturers as well as the latest innovations in marine equipment and supplies

• More than 23,000 international and local visitors attend including key buyers from Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia

About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC):
www.dwtc.com

Professionally managed and hosted by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) which provides more than three decades of experience in delivering world-class events in the Middle East, featuring local, regional and international exhibitors with unmatched expertise and in-depth market knowledge. The extensive portfolio of leading trade and consumer brand events include GITEX TECHNOLOGY WEEK, Gulfood and Dubai International Motor Show. The DWTC’s commitment to ongoing innovation within the exhibition industry has supported the rapid growth and development of a wide range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer shows, and delivered consistent satisfaction to exhibitors and visitors. DWTC works with the leading trade bodies and industry associations to ensure that all exhibitions deliver full value, and are built upon the real needs of their specific sector.