The highly anticipated 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show took place from 28 February to 3 March on the boating epicentre that is Dubai Harbour. As media partners of the event, SuperYacht Times were in attendance to explore some of the most thrilling attractions present at DIBS 2024. We take a look back at everything that you may have missed from Dubai International Boat Show 2024, including some exciting updates for the 31st edition of DIBS, due to take place in 2025.Tankoa unveils 70m Milano superyacht
During an exclusive press conference at DIBS, Tankoa Yachts unveiled the renderings for a new 70-metre superyacht concept, Milano. Developed together with Nauta Design, she features clean, elegant lines and draws inspiration from the hometown of Nauta Design, Milano.
You can read more about Milano here.Gulf Craft establishes Gulf Craft Group
UAE-based yacht builder Gulf Craft has announced the establishment of the Gulf Craft Group, a significant milestone in their quest to solidify a prominent role in the maritime industry worldwide. The new structure aims to streamline internal processes and integrate the Gulf Craft Inc. shipyard, as well as Gulf Craft Maldives under its umbrella.
You can find out more about the Gulf Craft Group here.Sunreef Yachts reveals more details about Middle East expansion
In February 2024, Sunreef Yachts opened the first halls in cooperation with RAK Maritime City, at its new facility in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. SuperYacht Times were lucky enough to visit the new shipyard during DIBS to find out more about its Middle East expansion.
You can read more about the expansion here. Yachts Sold
During the 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show, many exhibitors reported major sales. Althaus Yachts announced the sale of hull 19 in the Lamborghini 63 yacht series, built by Tecnomar. The yacht was sold to a UAE expat, with Beatrice Chiardi commenting: “It has been an exciting show for us, with really strong negotiations nearly closed from day two onwards.”Sanlorenzo reported the sale of three yacht at the exhibition, highlighting the show as a platform to reach new potential buyers and long-standing clients. “We are happy that this is the first time we have three Sanlorenzo boats represented at the show, as compared to last year, and all three of them were sold. Next time we hope to bring even more,” said a representative of Sanlorenzo.Gulf Craft’s Deputy Managing Director, Abeer AlShaali added, “Gulf Craft Group has sold multiple of its iconic vessels during the show, from its award-winning Majesty Yachts, renowned Nomad series, and sleek Silvercraft and SilverCAT brands with many more deals in the pipeline.”Yacht Debuts
Exclusively listed by Bush & Noble, the 50-metre custom wooden yacht Afra turned heads at the show as the “largest wooden superyacht” in the world. Featuring a classic wooden exterior that conjures memories of a traditional Arab dhow boat, the yacht’s wooden frame is complemented by an impressive interior layout, adorned with Italian furnishings, which create a relaxed, inviting, and modern environment.The 25.3-metre Ferretti Yachts Riva Diva 82 yacht made her MENA debut at DIBS 2024. The flybridge yacht features a range of design advancements that enhance both aesthetics and functionality, including high gunwales with painted composite segments instead of traditional steel handrails, alongside fold-down bulwarks which increase the yacht’s six-metre beam by an additional 50 percent. Hypercar Avenue
Car fanatics and collectors were able to enjoy the Hypercar Avenue, which offered a rare look at remarkable, one-of-a-kind automobiles. Combining technological innovation with extravagance, the multi-million-dirham exhibition featured some of the world’s most exclusive cars, such as a Bugatti Chiron, McLaren Speedtail and Pagani Huayra.Nikki Beach & VIP Lounges
The Nikki Beach Resort Lounge made a comeback at DIBS, feeding guests with a maritime menu of meals such as fresh salads, sushi rolls, delicate appetisers, and cocktails, all while the beach club DJs create a beachy musical ambiance. As well as this, VIP guests were able to lounge in a sanctuary of luxury, with access to a range of bespoke amenities and activities in the VIP lounges, sponsored by the AIX Investment Group.The future of Dubai International Boat Show 2025
The decision to host the 31st edition of the Dubai International Boat Show at Dubai Harbour was solidified during discussions on-site with Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of Dubai World Trade Centre, and Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer at Shamal Holding, the proprietors of Dubai Harbour. This marks the commencement of a long-term partnership, offering the international yachting community an enhanced platform for expansion and development.“The Dubai International Boat Show is not only the biggest marine show in the region, it has grown to become a major catalyst to the wider advancement of the maritime industry and a testament to Dubai’s growing status as one of the world’s maritime hubs,” concluded Abdulla Binhabtoor.
Dubai International Boat Show 2025
The 31st edition of Dubai International Boat Show will take place at Dubai Harbour in February 2025, with further details planned to be announced in due course.