Dubai International Boat Show expanded footprint and key stage for stunning waterfront real estate developments

The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) successfully wrapped up its 31st edition, having welcomed over 30,000 visitors to Dubai Harbour for an exciting maritime lifestyle event at one of the region’s most sophisticated marinas. Taking place from 19-23 February, the event showcased over 200 yachts and watercraft, featuring world-renowned brands such as Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, and Yachts One. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, DIBS expanded opportunities for the maritime community—not only presenting the finest in yacht and boat craftsmanship but also introducing a dedicated brokerage section for premium pre-owned yachts, highlighting luxury waterfront real estate, unveiling the latest in marine technology, and fostering new business connections within a reimagined hospitality experience.

Focus on Sustainability

The much-anticipated five-day event was hosted for a fourth consecutive year at Dubai Harbour. With an ever-growing focus on sustainability across both the industry and the emirate, the show served as the ideal stage to demonstrate exhibitors’ ongoing efforts to promote a more environmentally friendly maritime sector and further underpin the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030.

“Entering its 31st edition, the Dubai International Boat Show continued to evolve in response to the shifting dynamics of the maritime industry,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre. “This year, we introduced new avenues to expand opportunities for our audience—from a dedicated brokerage section, where buyers could explore a premium selection of pre-owned yachts through expert intermediaries, to an Innovation Zone designed to empower SMEs driving the future of marine technology. As the region’s leading platform for the yachting and maritime sector, DIBS remains at the forefront of innovation, investment, and industry collaboration.”

“As the host and long-term partner of the Dubai International Boat Show, we were proud to contribute to maritime advancements with state-of-the-art facilities and the largest marina in the region that continually set new benchmarks for luxury and service. Welcoming the 31st edition of the iconic event, we reaffirmed our commitment to enhancing Dubai's status as a premier superyacht destination and global maritime hub, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of yachting and seafront living," said Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal.

Industry Significance and International Reach

With a rise of 12.28 percent in yachts visiting the UAE in the 2023/2024 season, DIBS underscored Dubai’s commitment to accelerating yacht tourism and furthering the city’s position as a top global destination for maritime activities.

Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman, Gulf Craft, said: “The Dubai International Boat Show has always been more than an exhibition for Gulf Craft – it has been a celebration of the incredible journey Dubai has taken to become a global marine and superyacht hub. Over the years, this show has mirrored the country’s bold vision, showcasing world-class innovation and connecting us with a diverse audience of enthusiasts, investors, and pioneers. For Gulf Craft, it was an opportunity to highlight not just our achievements but our shared commitment with Dubai to push the boundaries of what is possible in the maritime world. We were honoured to be part of this iconic event that continues to set new standards for the industry and the region."

With Dubai on track for another record-breaking year in tourism figures, DIBS welcomed a significant percentage of visitors from around the world, with exhibitors from over 60 countries, including newcomers for 2025 such as Croatia, Japan, Luxembourg, Romania, Singapore, and Slovenia.

Innovation Hub

As a cornerstone event significantly contributing to the ongoing development of Dubai’s economy, DIBS provided not only a platform for established shipbuilders and suppliers but also a space for startups and entrepreneurs to make their mark on the sector. The Innovation Hub, which launched at the 2025 edition, provided a platform for eight of the industry’s newest SMEs.

This year, DIBS also evolved into a key stage for luxury real estate, showcasing stunning waterfront projects from developers such as Damac, Sobha Realty, and Omniyat, reflecting a growing demand for bespoke marina living. A new brokerage section featured industry leaders, including Burgess, Behnemar, and Royal Yachts. Additionally, a wellbeing lounge was introduced for boat crews and captains to relax, unwind, and learn how to ensure their physical and mental health is maintained during long voyages.

Beloved Returning Features

DIVE MENA, the only dedicated show for the UAE and GCC diving community, returned to DIBS, bringing an expanded dive tank to wow visitors with demonstrations and fun activities.

Back for 2025, the Proudly UAE initiative honoured the country’s rich maritime heritage with locally-made vessels. Supercar Avenue displayed 25 of the rarest and most coveted high-performance cars in the world. Specialised trade expos for Equipment Supplies & Services and Marine Luxury & Lifestyle were also confirmed for the show, ensuring visitors had access to all elements of maritime life in one space.

Acting as a curtain raiser to the dynamic showcase, the Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference took place on 18 February with 200 experts lined up to discuss the most pressing and exciting developments in the sector, under the theme of ‘The New Nautical Code: Innovation, Influence, and Experience.’