BY Anna Cummins on 24 Feb 2023

Over 50 global and regional launches to be announced at the show, which gets underway from 1-5 March 2023

Dubai International Boat Show 2023 DIBS marina.

Dubai International Boat Show 2023 is getting ready to welcome more than 30,000 visitors to the seafront district Dubai Harbour, when the largest marine and lifestyle event in the Middle East gets underway from 1-5 March 2023.

More than 175 yachts and watercraft from globally renowned shipyards such as Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Princess, San Lorenzo, Sunreef, and Sunseeker Gulf will sail into the shores of Dubai to put on an incredible display over the five days of the show’s 29th edition.

“We are looking forward to welcoming marine enthusiasts, maritime investors and those who are interested in all things ocean to DIBS23,” says Riju George, Group Director, Exhibitions, DWTC. “Dubai has a rich maritime heritage and over the years has created an extensive ecosystem and a sophisticated hub to nurture some of the greatest boat designers and manufacturers in the world; that’s why every year we see an influx of international visitors to the show.”

With more than 12 per cent of the world’s superyachts in the MENA region, show organisers say Dubai has rapidly grown to become one of the top 10 nautical hubs of the world within the marine industry.

Dubai International Boat Show 2023

Alongside over 50 global and regional launches to be announced at the show, DIBS23 will feature a stunning lineup of yachts, with more than 10 new brands on display, including Abeking & Rasmussen, Boutique Yachts, Finnmaster, Greenline Yachts, Nordhavn, SAY Carbon Yachts, Sirena Yachts, and Tecnomar. Gulf Craft’s new Majesty 111 will also be unveiled at the 2023 edition of the Dubai International Boat Show. 

“At Gulf Craft, we have always been a staunch supporter of our ‘home show’ since its inception; as an international manufacturer of cutting-edge yachts and boats we are proud to be part of such a prestigious event on our home ground,” says Mohammed Alshaali, Gulf Craft chairman. “At this year’s edition of Dubai International Boat Show, we are thrilled to introduce our brand-new Majesty 111 superyacht – a vessel that will redefine industry standards and set the precedent for our future Majesty models. We are committed to continuing our contribution to the region’s yachting industry and look forward to further supporting the UAE’s reputation as an exceptional global yachting destination.”

More than 12 per cent of the world’s superyachts are in the MENA region

Ocean lovers can also explore the ocean with Sunseeker Gulf at its debut as the new regional distributor of Sunseeker Yachts across the GCC; known for exceptional yacht designs and innovative technology, Sunseeker Gulf is poised to impress everyone with its latest offerings.

Explore the latest technology and design within the Equipment, Supplies and Services area, where there is plenty to discover; Elcome, will introduce the Starlink internet connection service, the revolutionary high-speed service from Space X, available worldwide, which enables boat owners to connect from the most remote waters across the world to enhance experience and productivity. On the water, solar-electric yacht specialist Silent-Yachts will be showcasing a partnership with EV Labs and demonstrating sustainable energy at sea to recharge boats entirely through the sun’s rays.

The Middle East Yachting Conference (MEYC), on 28 February, brings together senior representatives from around the industry to hear diverse perspectives from across the global landscape and discuss some of the industry’s key trends. Attendees include Thomas Weigend, Managing Director of Meyer Werft who is building the remarkable Njord yacht, a 948-foot luxury vessel, described as “the world’s largest private residence yacht” with 117 private apartments.

Dubai's Ocean construction

Premiering in Dubai, and hosted at DIBS, is the world’s second edition of the Experiential Yachting Forum from 2 to 3 March, bringing investors into the yachting world and exploring alternative uses of superyachts. 

DIBS 2023 also sees the launch of the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission, launched as a platform to support Dubai’s marine life. The show features a programme of initiatives to promote marine sustainability. 

The Leisure Marine Authority, which aims to increase recreational boat ownership in the region, will be at DIBS to give a series of informal coffee talks on budget boat owning, safe and sustainable use of watercrafts, and more.

Other attractions include dive pool shows, the kayak and stand-up paddle area, a fishing competition, watersport demos, bars and more.

Tickets for the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 are available online now.