The Arabian Gulf’s first Super- and Mega-yacht spectacle, the Abu Dhabi Yacht Show (ADYS), which ran for three days this month produced major sales and quickly positioned itself as one of the world’s most luxurious industry events.

In an awe-inspiring display of sea-faring luxury, the event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) featured a flotilla of 21 Super- and Mega-Yachts – some coming with price tags in excess of 200 million dollars – ranging in length from 30 metres to 90 metres and several ranking among the world’s 100 largest yachts.

Over 100 exhibitors representing the world’s leading companies exhibited in the elitist event, which attracted a high net worth audience including members of the UAE, Kuwaiti and Qatari ruling families amid a host of yachting enthusiasts.

Exhibitors too were effusive. Anne Blythe, Senior Registrar at Isle of Man Registry said: “Many people are unaware of the advantages which we can offer for them. ADYS represented a great platform for us to meet with other industry partners, shipbuilders, yacht brokers, designers and project managers as well as the owners.”

The glittering show’s success has been attributed to strong government support, its excellent location – at the heart of a buoyant economy and mid way between the SuperYacht hubs of Europe and Asia – great features, layout and services as well as the diverse exhibitor range. These included yacht builders, yacht brokers, interior designers, naval architects, consultants, marina developers, marine suppliers and private jet operators, who together created a full industry spectrum.

The show also saw millions of dollars-worth of vessels sold. Many negotiations are still under process as sea trials have been taking place in Abu Dhabi since the end of the show. Ron Cleveringa from the Burger Boat Company said that the company has received good quality enquiries, which was very encouraging. “The Abu Dhabi Yacht Show is a unique show in a key market that we could not afford to miss. It helped us promote our brand to the market place especially in this new and exciting market which holds so much potential.”

Exhibitors have reported more interest and business than expected, with the majority cautiously optimistic about the results achieved. “Over the past three days, we have enjoyed plentiful media interest, positive feedback from both our visitors and exhibitors and a healthy flow of visitors,” he said. “And yet, we promise to hold a breathtaking show next year in March 2010 with more exhibitors, more yachts and more luxury.”