Having first set sail over three decades ago, the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) has come of age. Having served its apprenticeship, it is now regarded as one of the region’s most unmissable marine events. Taking place between 19 – 23 February 2025, the show is recognised as the largest boat show in the UAE, GCC and Middle East.
Considered to be the wealthiest Middle Eastern city, Dubai is one of the best destinations for partaking in the very best of everything life has to offer. Government initiatives in recent years have propelled the region into a global yachting paradise. The crown jewel Dubai Reef, the world’s largest artificial reef, stands as a beacon of sustainability. Powered by 100% renewable energy, it is drawing sailors and divers alike with its promise of eco-friendly cruising.
Marine tourism
Improved yachting facilities and eased regulations have made Dubai, and its surrounding waters, an enticing choice for marine tourism. This is a US$5.7bn market that is expected to reach almost US$12.3bn by 2027. Driven by increased demand from better-informed and a more tech-savvy younger generation. Inbound tourism has been boosted by leisure, international brands with dedicated offerings and the development of new luxury malls. Therein lies the opportunity and perhaps the reason why Dubai’s boat show has become so successful.
The city state’s strategic location offers access to other major events, the likes of the Grand Prix and the Dubai Sail GP. These, along with other high-profile, attractions are defining new standards of boating luxury and leisure and reinforce the importance of the Dubai boat show.
Visitors to the show can spend 5 days exploring superyachts exhibited by the world’s premier boatbuilders experiencing first-hand. The epitome of the marine luxury lifestyle and technological sophistication. Superyacht Avenue is set to present an impressive collection showcasing the latest in luxury maritime design.
More than just superyachts
The show features more than just superyachts. Dive MENA Expo is a knowledge-sharing platform for diving enthusiasts. While the Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference offers networking opportunities for maritime industry experts to discuss superyachts, marine equipment and technology.
The Marine Luxury Lifestyle exhibition highlights high-end maritime living. Visitors can immerse themselves in luxury, with displays showcasing nautical opulence and marine technology and innovation. It will showcase carefully curated selected fashion and lifestyle brands, from luxury contemporary fashion to custom-made mattresses for yachts.
Complementing the maritime focus with a touch of high-octane glamour, ‘Hypercar Avenue’ is an exhibition within the show showcasing the world’s rarest and most coveted cars. This extraordinary exhibition offers car enthusiasts and collectors an exclusive glimpse into the pinnacle of automotive excellence.
The adrenaline-pumping water sports display will highlight a wide array of activities, from jet skiing to kite surfing, catering to all water sports enthusiasts. Testament to the diverse and exciting world of maritime activities it is designed to be a fun event for people of all ages. The show will also host the Marine Art Gallery, while the Marina Display, will showcase indispensable ESS (Equipment, Supplies, and Services).
Captains’ Night
The rather exclusive Captains’ Night event is reserved for captains and crew only. But VIPs will receive an invitation to the World of Yachts Lounge in partnership with Feadship Yachts. The space will showcase the latest yachting innovations and seafront development projects, alongside food and beverages.
Yachting Conference
Just before the show opens the Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference will see more than 200 leaders from the global maritime industry gather. They convene primarily for the networking opportunities and the ability to discuss topics. These include innovation, regulation, sustainability, and the future of our seas.
While in Dubai for the show, take the time to explore one of the UAE’s most popular destinations in more detail. The 830m tall Burj Khalifa dominates the skyline, and a host of cosmopolitan retail malls provides great shopping opportunities with some of the most prestigious brands on the high-end market. Pair that with a relaxing beverage while watching the Dubai Fountain, which is choreographed to music, and you will have a Dubai Yacht Show to remember.