Trixie LohMirmand, organiser of the Dubai International Boat Show

Executive Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) since 2005, Trixie LohMirmand oversees the company’s diverse portfolio of events including the Dubai International Boat Show. The UAE-based Singaporean explains why she’s looking ahead to the 31^st edition of the Middle East’s biggest boat show, which will be held at Dubai Harbour for a fourth successive year.

How has the Dubai International Boat Show evolved since it moved to Dubai Harbour in 2022?

Since resuming in 2022 at its new venue, Dubai Harbour, the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) has undergone significant advancements. After the 2024 edition, a long-term partnership between the show and Dubai Harbour was announced, securing state-of-the-art infrastructure and an iconic venue for the future.

Returning for its 31st edition from February 19-23, 2025, the Dubai International Boat Show promises to elevate the region’s maritime lifestyle against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Harbour, the city’s premier seafront district. Nestled among Dubai’s most iconic landmarks – including Bluewaters, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah – the venue offers seamless water access to vibrant coastal destinations.

The show will again be held by the Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal.

The 2025 event will leverage its surroundings, with a layout adjacent to the Cruise Terminal. Visitors can expect an enhanced showcase of cutting-edge marine technology, luxury yachts and sustainable solutions, paired with a reimagined hospitality experience. From immersive lifestyle activations to elite networking opportunities, the show guarantees an unforgettable journey into the future of the maritime world.

Once again, the Dubai International Boat Show will be preceded by the annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference. With over 200 experts discussing innovation, sustainability and regulation, it’s the definitive platform for transformative dialogue and where global maritime leaders converge to shape the industry’s future.

The Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference.

Whether you’re an experienced seafarer or exploring the marine lifestyle for the first time, the Dubai International Boat Show remains the MENA region’s most prestigious and established event, drawing annual participation from leading local and global shipbuilders.

Why is Dubai Harbour an ideal venue for the show?

Hosting the show for the fourth consecutive year, Dubai Harbour has cemented its status as one of the MENA region’s largest and most advanced marinas. This dynamic leisure marine hub embodies Dubai’s visionary ambitions and complements the innovative, luxurious essence of the Dubai International Boat Show.

With approximately 700 berths and able to accommodate yachts up to 160m, Dubai Harbour provides a world-class maritime facility. It offers full home-port solutions, allowing direct access to the open waters of the Arabian Gulf while catering to the needs of both guests and crew.

Dubai Harbour offers a picture-perfect setting.

Will the 2025 show layout differ from previous years?

The 2025 show will occupy the same stunning location as 2024, with significant expansions at both ends. Twenty additional berths will be added at the entrance, and both the tented areas and the outdoor footprint will increase in size, offering visitors and exhibitors a larger, more dynamic experience.

What new developments can visitors and exhibitors expect in 2025?

Each year, the Dubai International Boat Show evolves to deliver a world-class experience aligned with Dubai Harbour’s dynamic growth. Over more than three decades, the event has transformed from a local gathering into one of the Middle East’s most renowned maritime showcases.

Following its 30th anniversary in 2024, the 2025 show will continue to highlight the best in superyacht craftsmanship, luxury living and watersports, attracting enthusiasts and industry leaders worldwide. This year’s features will include expanded activations for day trippers, specialised trade sectors such as Equipment Supplies & Services, Marine Luxury & Lifestyle, Dive MENA, and an impressive on- and off-water display of cutting-edge vessels.

The on-land and in-water areas both offer stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

The Dubai International Boat Show has evolved into a key stage for luxury real estate, showcasing stunning waterfront projects. For the 31st edition, developers like Damac, Sobha, and Omniyat reflect the growing demand for bespoke marina living.

Meanwhile, the new brokerage section features industry leaders like Burgess, Behnemar and Royal Yachts. This space connects visitors with experts, offering tailored insights into premium yacht acquisitions.

Finally, we can confirm an exciting collaboration with Dubai Offshore Sailing Club and The Captain’s Club to offer thrilling on-water experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in sailing and motorboating, adding a dynamic element to the show.

Visitors enjoy the luxury yachts from international brands.

Blending innovation and elegance, the Dubai International Boat Show 2025 celebrates the marine lifestyle at the heart of one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities. 

What percentage of visitors and exhibitors come from outside the UAE?

A significant portion of the show’s audience hails from outside the UAE. Last year, the top 10 visiting countries included the USA, Germany, Italy and France, alongside strong representation from GCC nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, as well as local UAE participants.

What is the current state of the yachting market in Dubai and the UAE?

The UAE maintains a pivotal role in the global superyacht industry, attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and luxury enthusiasts from around the world.

The outdoor exhibition area will increase in 2025.

With the number of HNWIs in the UAE projected to surpass 228,000 by 2026, Dubai’s position as a luxury destination and superyacht hub continues to grow, supported by its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and expanding marine infrastructure.

Dubai is home to 21 billionaires and approximately 72,500 millionaires who value exclusivity and exceptional experiences, solidifying the UAE as a key player in the luxury yachting world. Across the country’s 4,500 berths, the most popular vessels range from sleek motoryachts to spacious superyachts, catering to the diverse tastes of its affluent audience.

This high-profile market sector continues to receive support on a federal level, with projects like the Dubai Reef enhancing the emirate’s appeal as a premier destination for marine tourism, resonating with the lifestyle and luxury themes central to the Dubai International Boat Show.

The show attracts quality clientele from within and outside the GCC.

As the world’s largest purpose-built reef development, the Dubai Reef project not only showcases groundbreaking innovation but also underscores Dubai’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

With 20,000 reef modules set to be deployed over the next three years, this project directly supports initiatives like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It embodies our city’s vision for a sustainable future, complementing the innovation and excellence that define events like the Dubai International Boat Show.

This article was first seen on yachtstyle.co.

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