Major international interest in the Middle East’s marine leisure industry is encouraging Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) to “think big” for 2007.
Figures released today show that a total of 22,418 visitors passed through the gates of the Boat Show last month, an increase of nearly 10 percent on visitors who attended in 2005.
Most encouragingly, the show attracted its highest proportion of regional visitors in its history, with significant increases from Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi in addition to many international visitors from as far afield as America and Australia.
DWTC is currently in discussions with Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) on show development plans to serve the ongoing rise in interest, and particularly on ways to facilitate the demand for additional space from exhibitors, including national pavilions and regional manufacturers and dealers who are looking to return in 2007.
Indeed, over 80% of this year’s exhibitors have confirmed their attendance for next year.
“Many exhibitors have commented that 2006 was the year that the Boat Show stepped up another gear in terms of international status and visitor profile, and we’re keen to keep this positive momentum going into 2007 and beyond,” said Trixee Loh, General Manager – Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre.
“We are currently examining a number of options which will enable us to welcome even higher numbers of visitors and exhibitors in 2007, and to ensure we continue to provide a truly world class event for the region’s marine leisure industry,” added Loh.
Among the ideas under consideration are an extended “on-water” area to accommodate more boats in the marina, and greater capacity to host marine equipment manufacturers and display their products.
A number of Middle East companies saw record results at the 2006 Boat Show, particularly those from the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait who all registered significant sales.
The next Dubai International Boat Show, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, will take place from 13-17 March 2007 at the Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi. For details on how you can take part please call Helen Wynd (+971) 4 308 6042/ Nadya Khan (+971) 4 308 6069 or email [email protected] / [email protected].
About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
Website: www.dwtc.com
As the organiser of Dubai International Boat Show, Dubai World Trade Centre offers over 25 years’ experience of delivering world-class events in the Middle East, providing local, regional and international exhibitors with unmatched expertise and in-depth market knowledge. Our team organises 12 of the largest and most successful international and regional shows in Middle East, providing an ideal platform for business development in the region.
Our commitment to ongoing innovation within the exhibition industry has supported the rapid growth and development of a wide range of business-to-business and business-to-consumer shows, and delivered consistent satisfaction to exhibitors and visitors. DWTC works with the leading trade bodies and industry associations to ensure that all exhibitions deliver full value and are built upon the real needs of their specific sector.
About Dubai International Boat Show
Website: www.boatshow.dwtc.com
Dubai International Boat Show, the largest marine industry exhibition in the Middle East, is a classic showcase of yachts and boats from both local and international builders together with the latest innovations in marine equipment and accessories.
• Established in 1992, 2006 saw the 14th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show. A tremendous growth in both local and international exhibitors combined with an increased number of high profile visitors, has developed the show to become the most significant event of its kind in the region.
• With in excess of 250 companies participating in 2006, there were over 120 on water berths, as well as internal and external exhibition area adjacent to the marina.
• Over 22,000 visitors attended the 2006 event from around the region including key buyers from Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia
