19th Dubai Boat Show opens
Thousands of visitors attended the first day of the show, where 425 yachts and boats were 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.
“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”
Bangladesh, Czech Republic, Monaco, Oman, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Ukraine are all taking part for the first time and 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 of 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.”
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.
The show is open from 4pm to 9.30pm and admission is AED 55 per person.
Complete event details are available at boatshowdubai.com.