From February 28th to March 3rd, the 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2024 took place, the largest boat show in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Hosted at the Dubai Harbour, the event attracted over 30,000 visitors from around the world, reaffirming its status as the beating heart of the maritime industry in the region. This year marked the most successful edition yet, with a series of record sales and significant achievements.
A showcase of multimillion-dollar superyachts
DIBS 2024 was a major showcase of multimillion-dollar superyachts that attracted Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) from around the world. Italian shipyards such as Azimut, Sanlorenzo, Gruppo Ferretti with Wally, Pershing, Itama, Riva, and CNR took the spotlight. However, non-Italian shipyards also had a significant presence, with prestigious companies like Silent Yachts and Sunreef Yachts presenting their range of innovative electric and eco-friendly green catamarans.
Record Sales
High-value sales were the highlight of the event. Athaus Yachts seized the opportunity to sell its exclusive Lamborghini 63, built by Tecnomar Yachts. SanLorenzo sold a remarkable 3 yachts during the show, while the Gulf Craft Group reported numerous sales of its iconic vessels. The MTM Group also achieved significant success, selling over 10 personal watercraft.
The Boating Industry Goes Greener
Sustainability emerged as a key theme at DIBS 2024. Exhibitors such as Azimut, Sunreef Yachts, and Silent Yachts showcased cutting-edge solutions to reduce environmental impact, including fully electric yachts and hybrid technologies. As Enrico Chiaussa, Chief Commercial Officer of Azimut, stated: “Sustainability is ingrained in Azimut’s DNA: for over two decades, we have been investing to achieve this goal and developing the best available technologies to truly make a difference.”
The recreational boating industry is undergoing a sustainability revolution, aiming for “zero emissions” by 2050, with an intermediate target set for 2030. By 2030, the goal is a significant reduction of up to 55% in CO2 emissions.
Strategic Agreements and Partnerships
In addition to sales, DIBS 2024 fostered significant agreements and partnerships that will contribute to shaping the future of recreational boating in the region. The decision to once again host the show at Dubai Harbour in 2025 confirms a long-term partnership that will provide growth opportunities for both the local and global sectors.
Initiatives such as the expansion of The Captain’s Club yacht club in Kuwait and the addition of new partners to Marine Services One showcase the broad scope and positive impact of DIBS. As stated by Zaid Shouly, CEO of The Captain’s Club: “This exciting collaboration marks a monumental step forward in our mission to extend our maritime excellence beyond the shores of the United Arab Emirates.”
Verdeblu Yacht Charter: Exclusive Yacht Selection
Verdeblu Yacht Charter showcases all these prestigious brands in its yacht selection for charter, where you can find exclusive crewed yachts for your cruises, including a section entirely dedicated to green yachts.
