31st Dubai International Boat Show opens to queues of eager visitors

February 20, 2025
6:04 pm

The annual show, taking place until February 23, presents an exciting array of new and recent yacht models, future concepts and a plethora of lifestyle exhibits.

Words Andrew Dembina; photos Yacht Style and Shipyards

The annual Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) in its 31st edition was abuzz from yesterday afternoon, when it opened to visitors

New features in the 2025 edition see an increased focus on luxury real estate reflecting demand for bespoke marina living, support for start-ups with the launch of an Innovation Hub which provides a platform for eight of the industry’s newest SMEs, a brand new brokerage section featuring industry leaders including Bush & Noble, as well as a wellbeing lounge where boat crew and captains can network and discuss techniques to prioritise physical and mental health.

DIBS has grown exponentially since its inaugural event and continues to serve as an important platform, connecting industry leaders, innovators, and maritime experts, all the while further positioning Dubai as an international yachting and maritime hub. And growth-wise, the same is true of some of its UAE exhibitors.

The 2025 show is full of attractions from the yachting and superyacht segment, as well as watersports, a growing luxury and lifestyle sector, seafaring gadgets and equipment.

With 1,000-plus brands attending, visitors can browse first-class products on display from leading yacht-industry names such as the Ferretti Group, Sanlorenzo, Gulf Craft, Benetti, Feadship, and Lürssen, among others.

Trixie Lohmirmand, Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) the show organiser, and Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer, Shamal Holding, which owns and provides the event space Dubai Harbour venue, both spoke of the growth in exhibitors this year.

Global and regional launches

Emirati brand and superyacht manufacturer Gulf Craft, presents 18 luxury vessels, 8 for the first time, debuting vessels from Majesty Yachts, Oryx, and Silvercat ranges. Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman of Emirati yacht manufacturer Gulf Craft said the year’s highlights since DIBS 2024 include the company’s new tagline, “Built for Life” – which plays on Gulf Craft’s focus on durable vessels that aim to bring extraordinary experiences to owners.

Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman of Gulf Craft, informed on exhibits and developments at an opening-day press conference; photo: Gulf Craft

Its Majesty 100 Terrace makes its global debut, featuring a glass-fronted owner’s suite with panoramic views; also premiering, the Majesty 112 Terrace, a tri-deck superyacht offering expanded deck space and cutting-edge design, and new Majesty 65 mid-size model that complements Gulf Craft’s existing range, were launched. The Majesty 145 was unveiled, with fully serviced dining areas and a plunge pool.

Nomad’s five models, designed for long-range cruising, offering performance, efficiency, and luxurious interiors. Alshaali said the newly unveiled Oryx yachts are perfect for family adventures and that the new Silvecat catamarans feature high-technology and space optimisation.

On Gulf Craft’s recent completion of its Superyacht Service Centre in Ajman, capable of servicing yachts up to 600 tonnes, he mentioned its service and support for Gulf Craft owners is hoped to extend to owners of other brands too. The company hopes its 800,000sqft service facility in the Maldives set to launch – additionally to its 100,000sqft one there.

The Sunreef Ultima 55 (scale model above), produced in the UAE, makes its global premiere tomorrow, announced Sunreef Yachts’ Public Relations Director Artur Połoczański

Sunreef Yachts’ Public Relations Director Artur Połoczański addressed attending international media yesterday on the Poland-based yard’s continued mission to push boundaries in the environmentally-conscious decisions taken in the luxury sailing and power catamarans it produces. It displays the 80 Sunreef Power and a solar-electric 80 Sunreef Power Eco models, sporting areas of their photovoltaic superstructure and solar panels have become a signature of the brand.

He added that those visiting DIBS from Friday will be able to see the global premiere of the Ultima 55 – the first model completed at Sunreef’s shipyard in Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE.

The Wally wallytender48 makes its Middle-East debut

The Ferretti Group – alongside Riva Diva 82’ and Ferretti Yachts 860 models – introduced its Wally wallytender48 to the Middle East. The open one-cabin motoryacht’s understated industrial style became an inspiration to dayboat builders when it was first launched in 2019.

Sanlorenzo also has premieres in the Gulf, including its SX112, SL90A, and the SD96. Azimut Yachts show the Fly 53, Fly 58 and Fly 68 and the new Seadeck S7.

Yacht Vision GCC display an Absolute Navetta 52; SF Yachts is presenting its Prestige X70.

Some shipyards will represent their yachts at stands. Italian superyacht builder Benetti sill show scale models of Benetti yachts, including B.Loft, with its loft-style interiors; and Project Life, an in-build 85m megayacht designed for versatile use, with plenty of social entertainment areas and adaptable gathering spaces on each deck.

Bush and Noble yacht brokerage specialising in luxury sales and headquartered in Dubai highlighting its brokering services in the DIBS 2025 expanded dedicated brokerage area. It is presenting the US-built 011 Hatteras 05 during the show.

Shipyards representing their yachts at stands include Italian superyacht builder Benetti, showing scale-models of its B.Loft, and Project Life, an in-build 85m megayacht.

Vripack and Oceanco teamed up to present this concept of 101m Lily

Asymmetrical, 101m split-level concept megayacht Lily, was unveiled by Dutch yacht studio Vripack and shipbuilder Oceanco, also from the Netherlands. The scale-model of a very 22nd century-looking vessel was described by its Vripack lead designer Manix Hoekstra, Creative Director and partner at the design company, as a concept that “allows the sea and landscapes around it to be the real focus of those on board.” He added, “The key requirement from Oceanco was to conceive a yacht for the change-makers who want to leave a mark.”

Returning for 2025

Curated for motoring fans, Supercar Avenue returned, to giving DIBS attendees a glimpse into life in the fast lane, starring a collection that includes the Koenigsegg Regera; Pagani Huayra; Bugatti Chiron; Lamborghini Countach; Ferrari LaFerrari; and Mclaren Speedtail.

The Watersports area has a range of curiosities, from jet-skiing to flyboarding, with professionals ready to demonstrate their talents. Meanwhile, the ‘Proudly UAE’ area will pay homage once more to the maritime legacy of the Emirates and the local brands that represent the country internationally. And as the sun slinks below the horizon, Nikki Beach Yacht Club, an offshoot of Dubai’s hip bar/nightclub, is serving an array of light bites and refreshing drinks throughout the day and ups its tempo in the evening with the help of resident DJs.