With less than two months until opening day, the 16th Edition of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) has registered an overall 20 percent growth, making it the largest edition in its history and one of the most internationally-significant marine leisure industry events of the year.

Running from 11-15 March 2008 at Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi, DIBS has firmly established its position as the number one event in the region. In recent years, it has grown into one of the most important marine leisure events in the world, propelled by the major growth of the Middle East market across all sectors.

Up to 400 boats will be on display at this year’s event, the highest number since the show was launched in 1992. Companies from every part of the industry, from boat-builders through to marine equipment, suppliers and service providers, are set to exhibit.

To reflect the increasing sophistication of the marine leisure industry, as well as the evolving opportunities in niche and specialist areas, this year’s show has both expanded its overall size and increased the number of dedicated sector areas.

Organiser of the event, Mr Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General from Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), said: “Dubai International Boat Show increasingly appeals to a global audience, and is particularly relevant for marine leisure enthusiasts from a territory that ranges from across the Middle East, through to India and the CIS. These territories are among the fastest-growing globally, so the potential for business development is huge for companies across all sectors and areas of specialisation.”

DIBS 2008 will see the launch of a new section for Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), Inflatables and Tenders, one of the fastest-growing sectors in the marine leisure industry. In addition, new for this year is the inaugural DIBS Fashion Show with companies presenting the latest marine clothing and accessories. It will also feature an increased Equipment Supplies and Services Area.

On the Luxury, Supplies and Services side of the show, superyacht and luxury custom boat builders from around the globe, as well as their suppliers and service providers will exhibit with interior designers, charter, brokerage and waterfront developers detailing new marina projects.

The key to the growing popularity of marine activity in the Gulf region in particular is due to massive growth in the number of reclaimed island sites and waterside developments. 2008 is set to see a major boost in people having access to waterside developments across the region, from the local opening of Palm Jumeirah’s first marina project – Anchor Marina, to the launch of marina berths in the first phase of the US$2.5 billion Pearl-Qatar.

DWTC will be making use of the space available in Dubai International Marine Club – Mina Seyahi to display a wide range of craft from world-renowned super yachts to portable local craft.

Another important event is the Dive Middle East Exhibition (DMEX) 2008, which is held alongside DIBS. The number of companies registered to exhibit this year has grown by over 100 percent with the synergy of the two events, making it a natural meeting point for all those with an interest in the diving sector. The event this year will be complemented by the presentation of trial dives in the new diving demonstration pool and a series of live demonstrations and by the Emirates Diving Association and DMEX exhibitors.

The 4th Gulf Boating Conference entitled 'Dubai as a Gateway to the Middle East Region' is this year exclusively supported by International Council of Marine Industry Associations as industry leaders gather to present key issues and discuss both UAE and Regional development plans for the marine industry.