His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman of the Emirates Group and Vice Chairman of Dubai World Trade Centre inaugurated the 15th Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS). As the largest marine event in the Middle East, DIBS, organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, has attracted thousands of visitors from across the region with many travelling from Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait specifically for the event.

“To have so many trade and leisure visitors coming on the first day of the show demonstrates the significance the Dubai International Boat Show has in the marine calendar. This is a result of the huge variety of boats, equipment, attractions and accessories at the show this year, ensuring there is something to suit all tastes and budgets,” said Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, DWTC.

Following success at the DIBS 2006, a number of major Middle East companies have unveiled an enhanced presence at this year’s show including Al Hareb, Al Shaya Marine, Al Yousuf, ART Marine, Gulf Craft and Western Marine.

After officially opening the boat show in front of record first day crowds HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum and the royal party toured the exhibition in which more than 700 companies are taking part.