The 2024 Dubai International Boat Show Round-Up

DIBS 2024 was home to an eclectic mix of exhibitors, offering attendees the full experience of the sensational maritime industry. The prestigious show opened on the 28th of February by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, positioning DIBS as a notable event in the Dubai calendar, with 55 countries in attendance alongside over 1000 brands and 200 boats. 

Oceanco, Lürssen, Feadship, Ferretti and Gulf Craft were just five of the many shipyards on display at DIBS, with Oceanco revealing more details about its incredible Simply Custom technical platform and Ferretti’s Riva Diva 82 making her Middle Eastern debut. On top of this, Gulf Craft also unveiled the Gulf Craft Group: a new structure set to streamline the services that the Middle Eastern yard offers. 

Several significant sales were made at the show, positioning it as an important site for industry negotiations. Sanlorenzo displayed three yachts, of which all were sold, whilst Gulf Craft sold multiple of its iconic vessels, including its Nomad Yacht. 

The latest industry innovations were proudly displayed at this years DIBS, with MTM Marine launching their newest products: the Seadoo RXT 325 and the Seadoo RXP 325, heralded as the 'fastest jetski in the world'. Immersing attendees in the spectacular world of maritime toys, the world’s first-ever jet suit race also took place at the event, with competitors from eight countries using jet engines to navigate an exciting predetermined course. 

Alongside sensational superyacht offerings, DIBS once again returned with unparalleled luxury lifestyle displays, with the Hypercar Avenue displaying some of the world’s rarest cars including a Bugatti Chiron and a McLaren Speedtail. Nikki Beach and the VIP Lounge were the perfect spots for attendees to network and wind down simultaneously, all within the height of luxury, with an array of food and beverage options and music from live DJs reflecting the overall energy and vibrancy of DIBS. 

The importance of the UAE market was a common theme at this year's show. Sunreef Yachts, for example, announced its expansion into the region with a new manufacturing facility currently in development in Ras Al Khaimah, with the first manufacturing and CNC halls nearing completion. DIBS is the ultimate industry hub for the UAE, as both local and global brands gather to celebrate the yachting industry, showcasing the continuous growth of the market and its increasingly important presence in the superyacht world. 

Held in the beautiful location of Dubai Harbour, a long-term partnership between the host venue and the show was also announced, setting DIBS up with a spectacular show location for the foreseeable future. This offers the yachting community excellent opportunities for growth in the region; this world-class marina being the perfect location for a world-class boat show. 

DIBS 2024 was an undeniably sensational event, reflective of the vibrant nature of the superyacht industry and located in a sought-after superyacht hot spot. The Dubai International Boat Show will return in March 2025 at Dubai Harbour for its 31st edition, promising just as much excitement and energy as this year’s event.