Preparations for next year’s Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS 2007) are being finalised with the 15th annual event promising to be the biggest ever. The show is expecting to reach new levels of exhibitor bookings and visitor numbers as the world’s marine industry flock to the event, which will take place from 13 – 17 March 2007 at the Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi, Dubai.

Organiser Dubai World Trade Centre is on course to achieve a record event with over 30% growth through significant increases in the number of boats on the water, external displays and increased exhibition space for equipment manufacturers, suppliers and those servicing the leisure marine industry.

A number of factors – including the rising popularity of sailing, the growth of the leisure marine lifestyle and the fast-growing population – have created a market where demand currently outstrips supply by three to one, creating major opportunities for boat builders and suppliers.

In particular, expectations are high that increasing sales of waterfront properties across the GCC will continue to drive the expansion of the industry, as well as drawing new enthusiasts into the market.

The 2006 event saw record numbers of trade visitors from Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, in addition to high numbers from India, Russia and Pakistan, reinforcing the increasing internationalisation of the local market.

“The event is a prominent date on the global marine calendar and we are expecting the 2007 show will be the largest and most impressive yet,” said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre.

“Exhibitors continually comment that Dubai International Boat Show is an event where people come to do business – whether that’s buying a multi-million dollar super yacht or stocking up on sails and water-sports equipment,” he added.

Held alongside DIBS 2007, visitors will also have access to the 3rd Gulf Boating Conference – a keystone event for both local and international delegates in which key speakers will outline the latest developments in the Middle East.

Discussions will include plans to dramatically increase the number of available berths for boats in the GCC, as well as tackling rules and regulations surrounding leisure boating.

New for 2007, DIBS has also teamed up with the Emirates Diving Association (EDA) to present The Dive Middle East Exhibition (DMEX) 2007 alongside the event. DMEX brings together leading names from the world of dive equipment, supplies and services providing a natural meeting point for divers and marine leisure enthusiasts.

The 2006 show also broke all previous records by achieving more than 50% growth in exhibitor participation. More than 80% of exhibitors at DIBS 2006 confirmed their attendance for the 2007 show during the event itself with many companies announcing outstanding results from their participation.

“Following the success of the Dubai International Boat Show 2006, we look forward to making sure we continue to provide a truly world class event for the marine leisure industry,” concluded Mr Al Marri.