DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW VIBRANCY
The Dubai International Boat exhibition is the largest and most spectacular boat exhibition in the region, showcased more than 150 boats to over 30,000 people from March 1-5, 2023 at Dubai Harbour.
The 29th edition Dubai International Boat Show 2023 (DIBS2023) set a new standard for boating exhibits throughout the world by presenting extraordinary consumer trends that have redefined the boating sector. The exhibition had AED 2.5 billion in boats and yachts on show, with over 1,000 firms and brands from 60 countries, enticing guests to discover a varied selection of boats, from little dinghies to opulent superyachts, as well as the newest nautical accessories and technology and featured 200 superyachts and vessels, along with maritime experts from across the world.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, kicked off the Dubai Boat Show at Dubai Harbour today. The event is one of the world’s most prominent boat shows.
His Highness toured the event with various dignitaries. Those in attendance included His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, as well as His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council.
His Highness stopped by the exhibits of Dubai Police and Gulfcraft to see the much-anticipated Majesty 111, which is being unveiled at the Dubai International Boat Show. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed also visited the Al Rayyan Marine stand.
During the visit, His Highness saw the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation pavilion and was briefed on the Marine Craft Smart Inspection Project. The initiative enables clients to have their maritime crafts examined and checked online, with Dubai Maritime City Authority inspectors able to check them at the client’s location rather than bringing them to the Authority’s headquarters. To guarantee client safety while in use, important components of the marine boat are photographed and evaluated for conformity with safety and security requirements via virtual contact between the client and inspector.
The 29th edition of the event, held in the picturesque coastal neighbourhood of Dubai Harbour, featured over 50 worldwide and regional debuts, as well as some exciting industry trends reflecting the sector’s changing tastes and expectations in 2023 and beyond.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the 29th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, the Middle East’s largest maritime event.
His Highness inspected the exhibition and learned about the latest and most renowned boats, yachts, and vessels on display. He was also briefed on the many aspects of this year’s event, which is projected to attract over 30,000 guests over five days.
During his visit, His Highness observed numerous boats making their premiere at the show, including Princess boats’ flagship, the X95 Super Flybridge Yacht. The X95’s flybridge and main deck span nearly the entire length of the yacht, with elegantly carved surfaces and long flowing lines.
The worldwide boatbuilding industry is anticipated to exceed $47 billion by 2027. The worldwide electric boat industry is forecast to reach $16.6 billion by 2031, while the global luxury yacht market is also expected to rise, reaching $12.8 billion by 2031. In keeping with this growing trend, exhibitors at the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 reported good lead generation and sales over the five-day event.
The Dubai International Boat exhibition is the largest and most well-established boat exhibition in the UAE, GCC, and the Middle East. Whether you want to buy a boat, look into luxury boats and superyachts. However, you may also experience the most recent diving and aquatic inventions, as well as surf the glittering waves. It is the premier event for luxury and leisure. Co-located with Dive MENA Expo, the only expo devoted to the UAE and GCC diving communities.
The 29th edition of the event saw notable yacht manufacturers step up efforts to promote environmental sustainability, in line with rising demand for greener boats and an industry-wide push to safeguard our seas.
The Middle East’s largest and most established boat show was a proud industry changemaker, drawing exhibitors displaying eco-friendly materials, electric motors, and other ways to reduce the environmental effect of the yachting and water sports sectors. Silent Yachts, the JLS Training Institute, OKTA core, Magonis, Cummins Arabia, Sunkiss, Ocean 360, and the GEMS Education network are among the top distributors and brands.
With the world’s attention focused on the UAE and its role in the climate crisis and subsequent solutions, DIBS announced that it will keep its sustainability promise, and the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission will be launched at the 2023 show to support Dubai’s marine life.With the world’s attention focused on the UAE and its role in the climate crisis and subsequent solutions, DIBS announced that it will keep its sustainability promise, and the DIBS S.E.A. (Sustainable Environmental Action) Mission will be launched at the 2023 show to support Dubai’s marine life.
“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.” said Riju George, Group Director, Exhibitions, DWTC. “That’s why every year we see an influx of international visitors to the show.”
The Aeolus (above) by Shipbuilder: Oceanco, the idea gigayacht was practically presented at the boat exhibition, lenght of 430 feet (131 meters), with a sheet taken off the scale model of the boat with considerable fanfare. Former Rolls Royce lead designer Giles Taylor, who created the Phantom and Cullinan, designed the watercraft. The vessel’s smooth, rounded decks float over its long hull. Taylor makes it a point to point out that “her curves do not make her overly feminine because there is a masculine quality to her bold, forthright architecture.” Aeolus, a boat named after the Greek god of wind that can be changed for alternative fuels or future energy technologies.
Price approx. €300 million ($318 million), according to the company.
“Aeolus’s design sculpture is harmonious and borne of the function and flow envisaged for her future owner. Her curves do not make her overly feminine because there is a masculine quality to her bold, forthright architecture. Apart from the deck surfaces themselves, not one surface is flat or brutally geometric, which provides a unique aesthetic that sets Aeolus apart,” says Taylor.
Oceanco NXT is a collaborative commitment to the future, bringing together specialists from several sectors to provide yacht owners with a better way to live while simultaneously protecting the oceans.
“The collaboration and innovation resulting in the Aeolus design has been remarkable,” comments Marcel Onkenhout, Oceanco’s CEO. “As our newest Oceanco NXT design, she is an example of how we envisage the evolution of yachting, from the perspectives of both her design and technology. To build the yachts of tomorrow, we need to leave behind the preconceptions of yesterday. With Aeolus, I think we have achieved that.”
Her interior (above & below) has a strong language of incorporating totally sustainable and traceable elements, including biomaterials, at its heart.
“Organic nature, sensual being and playfulness played a big part of Aeolus’s design, bringing that exterior language to her interior for a soft and cocooning feeling. Every element has been rigorously considered, including sourcing and traceability of materials and working with some of the world’s most innovative artisans in biomaterials and sustainable development such as Desserto, a premium vegan leather alternative that is made from climate-positive cactus plants and Oliveri Homes, which exclusively works with Global Organic Textile Standard cottons and uses non-toxic processes and dyes to create its materials.,” explains Sarah Colbon, Co-founder of Njord.
With over 12% of the world’s superyachts in the MENA area, it’s no wonder that Dubai has emerged as one of the world’s top ten nautical hubs in the marine sector, home to multiple world-class waterfront residential complexes and numerous magnificent marinas. This infrastructure has given DIBS the ideal venue for over 1,000 worldwide firms to demonstrate their products and introduce their latest developments this year.
DIBS23 showcased an impressive roster of boats, with over ten new manufacturers on exhibit, including Abeking & Rasmussen, Boutique boats, Finnmaster, Greenline Yachts, Nordhavn, SAY Carbon Yachts, Sirena Yachts, and Tecnomar.
Beneteau, BehneMar Yachting, De Antonio, Ferreti, Gulf Craft, Lagoon, Ocean Independence, Riva, Sanlorenzo, Silent Yachts, Sunreef, and Sunseeker Gulf, among others, are launching new and innovative yachts. Among the spectacular lineup, the Ocean Independence’s 68m Soaring, worth at AED 350 million, is the longest and most expensive.
Dubai Harbour is located in the middle of the district designated as the worldwide tourist and leisure hub under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. This makes it an especially appealing and strategically unifying location for the Dubai International Boat Show, which is a significant contributor to recreational maritime tourism.
In addition to keeping up with current buying patterns, the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 surely established a new standard for the industry, breaking new ground in boat design and sustainability. The event’s success for exhibitors proved the yachting industry’s capacity to fulfil the rising need for eco-friendly and sustainable solutions while still delivering high-performance and comfortable designs.
Another debut at the five-day event came from BehneMar Yachting, the superyacht consultancy and official dealer for Cigarette boats in the Middle East, which introduced the region’s first Cigarette power performance boat, a move that Tim Trenker, Chief Executive Officer of BehneMar Yachting, predicts will “rock the market in the weeks, months, and years to come.”
Tim said: “We are very pleased with Dubai International Boat Show. I see a lot of further growth potential, and I forecast that we’ll soon be using both sides of the marina – one just for superyachts and one for yachts under 34 or 40 metres.”
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President – Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre said, “We will continue to build on the momentum established at Dubai Harbour, with a focus on bringing together global boating professionals and stakeholders to explore innovative opportunities in positive ecological actions, socioeconomic stimulation of sector growth, and leveraging Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.”
The Dubai International Boat Show showcased technologies and features that support sustainable yachting. More than half of the visitors to Sunreef Yachts’ display indicated an interest in eco-friendly yachts, indicating an increase in demand for them. According to Marta Sledziewska, Head of Marketing and Public Relations at Sunreef Yachts, clients are concerned about the environmental effect of their lifestyle and are seeking for a different type of boat that provides perfect silence on the water.
The 2022 Global Order Book showed an astounding 1,024 projects under construction or on order, a 24.7 percent increase over last year’s 821. Between now and 2026, almost 40 miles of superyachts will be built, launched, and delivered due to record demand on shipyards. According to interviews with builders, dealers, and brokers, the fourth quarter of 2020 proved to be a watershed moment for the sector, with orders increasing dramatically. Smaller semi-custom ranges absorbed a major portion of the increased demand, with inventories fast selling out.
SAY Yachts Dubai’s Head of Marketing and Sales, Lena Dobschall, stated that their boats employed carbon fibre technology, making them 50% lighter, 50% more efficient, and using 50% less fuel. SAY Yachts is introducing the SAY 52, which will include a hybrid engine, reflecting the increasing demand for electric motors in the yachting sector.
Recreational boating is experiencing a new wave of purchasers, who are on average 15 years younger than they were 20 years ago and less likely to come from boat-owning households. This data was supported by the experiences of companies at the Dubai International Boat Show.
SF Yachts’ Francesco Pitea said: “I’m pleased to say that this has been our best participation yet at the boat show. We have seen a lot of new, younger customers compared to previous editions, which is a very important thing for the whole industry.”
Another prominent theme during the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 was innovation. Companies demonstrated their most recent technological advancements, such as advanced navigation systems that can withstand harsh conditions while also assisting clients in delivering improvements in efficiency, safety, and a lower carbon footprint, as well as cutting-edge propulsion systems such as the end-to-end hybrid MTU Yacht Propulsion Solution distributed by Al Masaood.
According to Michel Torbey of Sanlorenzo Yachts, the brand’s target audience is primarily searching for configurable and high-end yachts and boats that they can use on a daily basis, since the vessel becomes the destination and a younger audience demands a new style for their craft. Sanlorenzo Middle East, the shipyard’s dealer, showed one of its most appreciated models, the SX88 crossover, which takes satisfaction in delivering a new form of boat to the market.
“Some of them want owner-friendly boats, and others want vessels with a captain and crew. No two yachts can look the same; they all depend on the owner,” he added.
The industry’s future appears promising, with a rising client base looking for novel solutions to their yachting demands, which fuel sales growth and inspire research and development to push new boundaries.
Beyond the breathtaking display of luxury boats and yachts, the Dubai International Boat Show provides guests with a world of unique experiences. The VIP Lounge, Captains Night, and Middle East Yachting Conference are just a few of the outstanding options offered. Immerse yourself in the UAE pavilion, which showcases the region’s top enterprises and innovations. Indulge in exquisite meals and beverages while taking in the breathtaking views of superyachts against the gorgeous backdrop of the Dubai skyline and Ain Dubai. Thewas ‘Captain’s Night’ for senior crew and industry professionals to network.
The new Majesty 111 (above) and Nomad 101 superyachts were unveiled in front of yachting aficionados. Two stunning yachts that showcase the renowned yacht manufacturer’s new vision for the future. The two superyachts, which made their global debut at DIBS 2023, represent Gulf Craft’s new era of dynamic growth under the strategic theme ‘Legacy in Motion’, which is driving the company to push boundaries through four core focus areas: Technology & Innovation, Path to Sustainability, Global Expansion, and Next Generation.
“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,” said 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 continue our contribution to the region’s yachting industry and look forward to further supporting the UAE’s reputation as an exceptional global yachting destination.”
EMEA Managing Director Alejandro Hahn attended the Dubai International Boat Show 2023, where Gulf Craft Majesty 111 was dressed for exhibition by Dahlgren Duck.
Dahlgren Duck fulfills OS&E and FF&E for destination clubs and boutique hotels, to outfitting private planes and yachts, to sourcing bespoke dining services and, our passion is providing unmatched service for the world’s most discerning clientele. We guide designers and clients through each one. Curators of #luxury style for over 35 years.
Gulf Craft showcased a fleet of 15 yachts and watercraft, including the DIBS 2023 debuts, the Majesty 111 (above) and Nomad 101 superyachts, the two stunning yachts that showcased the renowned yacht manufacturer’s new vision for the future. The two superyachts will make their global debut at DIBS 2023, representing Gulf Craft’s new age of dynamic expansion under the strategic theme ‘Legacy in Motion’.
Gulf Craft collaborated with Phathom Studio, located in the Netherlands, to create this trideck yacht of the Majesty 111 (above). A tiny pool with a glass bottom stands immediately above the master bedroom, and the skylight may be covered for privacy. According to the shipyard, there is 40% more glazed glass than a conventional yacht under 101 feet long, which creates a stronger link between inside and outdoors. The interior features six staterooms, a salon, dining space, and galley, as well as an upper deck plunge pool.
Gulf Craft integrates sustainable solutions into their builds. Abeer Al Shaali, Deputy Managing Director of Gulf Craft, said: “At Gulf Craft, we understand that clients prioritise sustainability and durability, and we are committed to supporting the path towards a sustainable future. We are committed to making our yachts more efficient, lightweight, and practical, always with the user’s perspective in mind. Our latest yacht, the Majesty 111, showcases the latest trends in boat building, bringing the outside inside and creating a natural flow from exterior to interior. We believe that by incorporating nature and light into our designs, we are creating a truly unique and luxurious experience for our clients.”
The SUNREEF 80 ECO was exhibited, the perfect symbiosis of beauty, luxury, design, sustainability, innovation, elegance, and architecture expertise. Sunreef has certainly pioneered the craftsmanship of the luxury SUNREEF ECO 80 with their unique innovative technology, fully-autonomous craft, and revolutionary green tech for fuel-free cruising into the tranquility of your sea journey.
Read the review – THE SERENE HIGH SEAS PICNIC ABOARD THE SUNREEF 80 ECO
THE SERENE HIGH SEAS PICNIC ABOARD THE SUNREEF 80 ECO
Car lovers were ecstatic to find the Supercar Avenue by VIP MOTORS, which featured some of the world’s most unusual and unique vehicles.
VIP MOTORS is the UAE’s largest luxury auto shop, and they showcased a total of 23 of the greatest range of supercars and hypercars at the Dubai Bat Show 2023. Koenigsegg, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Mclarens, limited and special editions, were all there.
Their showroom collections include both old and new automobiles that are designed to meet expectations, and their crew manages the entire process from registration to delivery with ease and efficiency.
VIP Motors is a one-of-a-kind vehicle showroom that focuses on market distinctiveness and rapid response to new developments. The firm specializes in hosting very rare, costly, and limited-edition vehicles.
Centaurus Charter – Yachts & Boat Rental Dubai offers luxury yacht rentals in Dubai, the UAE’s premier yacht cruise, boat rental, and fishing charter available on an hourly basis.
CENTAURUS CHARTER provides leisure boat and yacht rental services in Dubai. The fully-crewed luxury boat charters and full-service event planning are conveniently accessible in Dubai Marina.
Yas Marina, the UAE’s finest superyacht marina showcased its offerings as part of the Dubai International Boat Show 2023 from 1st – 5th March at Dubai Harbour.
All that walking about in the heat, touring yachts, made me want for some gelato, and I did, some nice yummy chocolate gelato from GELATO DIVINO.
Gelato Divino is the finest Italian-style gelato, delivering a quality product that melts in your tongue. Gelato Divino’s original gelato is made fresh everyday in its own completely HACCP-certified production plant. This is why our gelato is the greatest! We provide a variety of product lines, including gelato, cakes, shakes, and sundaes.
SAY Yachts launched the SAY 42, a yacht with a hybrid engine, at the 2023 Dubai International Boat Show. The SAY 42 is a part of SAY Carbon Yachts’ product range.
SAY Yachts launched the SAY 42, a yacht with a hybrid engine, at the 2023 Dubai International Boat Show. The SAY 42 is a part of SAY Carbon Yachts’ product range.
Yacht aficionados will be able to have a closer look at SAY Carbon Yacht’s unique carbon fibre production and luxurious embellishments, as well as hear from the experienced crew how the boat’s technical improvements enable zero emission yachting as compared to its competitors.
SAY Yachts Dubai’s Head of Marketing and Sales, Lena Dobschall, stated that their boats employed carbon fibre technology, making them 50% lighter, 50% more efficient, and using 50% less fuel. SAY Yachts is introducing the SAY 52, which will include a hybrid engine, reflecting the increasing demand for electric motors in the yachting sector.
All this walking, touring, sight seeing, made me reallll hungry. Lucky me, I was nearby Blak Tap craft burgers. Ordered the chicken burger, very juicy, mouthwateringly delicious and succulent chicken. Best with the chocolate shake. They’re more than just delectable; they’re also iconic. With awards from NYCWFF’s Burger Bash, Time Out, Zagat, and even Dan’s GrillHampton, it’s safe to say our burgers are creating quite a buzz.
Our CRAZYSHAKE® inventions are so ridiculous that they shatter the internet. We take them to the next level and beyond. Imagine a milkshake topped with a large slice of birthday cake. A fanciful cloud of cotton candy floats on top. Cookies appear “glued” to the glass. Our shakes aren’t simply spectacular; they’re pieces of confectionary art.
On the north side of the venue, superyacht exhibitors with booths included Lürssen were present, close to the hypercars.
Amongst the yacht designs on display, were the Amels 60 and Amels 80 Limited Editions. Our development of these yachts is aimed at carrying the spirit and philosophy of the Amels Limited Editions into a new generation. The Amels 60 and Amels 80 both sport an exterior design from Espen Øino and feature cutting-edge technology, including hybrid power and propulsion. At the same time, they retain the build process that has made the Amels Limited Editions a success. The yachts offer optimal customisation potential, combined with fast delivery of a proven platform that features tried and tested naval architecture and seakeeping characteristics.
The Marine Art Gallery at the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2024 presented works by world-renowned painters and sculptors. The exhibition is a celebration of the water and provides a journey through marine arts.
For thousands of years, a subfossil oak tree has been awaiting discovery. Despite his age, he kept the qualities of wood and developed a distinct colour and drawing. Each piece is an unusual blend of dark brown, gray-silver, and blue-black zones, which makes its colour unique and attractive. This wood is resistant to decay and has great endurance due to its antiquity and mineral content. It may be utilised up to 100%, including chips and shavings, leaving no waste.
The jan frydrych yacht chronometer royal blue m85 was created by Cezch artist Jan Frydrych and is one-of-a-kind. Made of the same optical glass used on the Hubble telescope.
Shaping stone into a product or a work of art is a difficult undertaking that only professional stonecutters can do. Marmor Hotavlje artists skillfully carve them into shapes, enticing us with the mystery of their substance and breathtaking beauty. As part of our positioning, and precisely because it corresponds to our raison d’être, we have a long and sustained history of close collaboration with both Interior Designers and Master Artisans from a wide range of sectors, in order to ensure that when we complete a joint project, we can honestly declare that we have achieved the same standards in terms of style, beauty, and craftsmanship as we would have in a non-collaborative endeavour.