Looking ahead: Dubai International Boat Show 2023

By Steph Loseby 1 February 2023

As one boat show ends, another begins. This year will be the 29th edition of the largest and most prestigious yacht show in the Middle East, the Dubai International Boat Show. Spread across five days from 1-5 March 2023, this highly anticipated show is set to take place at the newly redeveloped Dubai Harbor.

Following a triumphant return in 2022 after the last two editions of the show were canceled due to COVID, the most exciting yacht show in the UAE is promising another successful spectacle this year as it welcomes more than 150 yachts and over 800 brands from more than 55 companies that are ready to showcase their various luxury lifestyle products and services.

yachts lined up at the dubai international boat show 2022

2022 was a record-setting year for Dubai International Boat Show with more yacht launches and deals than any other edition and in 2023 we continue to grow even further

Now an established fixture on the yachting calendar, Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2023 is set to attract around 30,000 visitors this year, including prospective buyers, industry players and yachting enthusiasts who share a mutual passion for the superyacht lifestyle.

What to expect at the Dubai International Boat Show 2023

DIBS attracts many of the world’s leading yacht builders, with the sprawling variety of yachts on display covering all shapes and sizes. Providing an apt location for such a distinguished show, Dubai Harbour is a remarkable venue with 1,100 berths and the capacity to host superyachts up to 160m (252ft).

Superyacht Avenue

Without a doubt, the main attraction of the show is always the ‘Superyacht Avenue’. A majestic on-water display that is always bustling with activity, it is here that guests can expect to see the biggest yachts at the show and the latest developments from some of the world’s leading boat builders.

As well as showcasing a sweeping selection of marvelous sailing yachts, motor yachts and luxury boats, the show is also designed to exhibit equipment and services relevant to the industry. Visitors can immerse themselves in watersports demonstrations, competitions, boat rides and family activities that focus entirely on marine conservation.

Inspirational talks

There will be a number of educational talks and interactive presentations from industry professionals across the five-day show. Following the recent announcement by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan that 2023 will be recognized as the Year of Sustainability, this year’s edition of DIBS will have a dedicated program of green initiatives with the aim to empower visitors to discover the influential impact of exploring the sea and how to take care of it.

Dubai itself is a hub of luxury and commerce, making it an ideal location for businesses operating in the superyacht industry to meet and discuss the future. Following the success of the first Experiential Yachting Forum in Monaco, the second edition of Experiential Yachting Forum 2023 will be held in the Conference Pavilion at DIBS, allowing guests to listen to discussions on multifunctional superyachts and Holistic Yachting. Of course, the annual Middle East yachting conference will take place too, gathering more than 100 global leaders from across the industry to discuss innovation, regulation and the future of the seas.

Elsewhere, the dedicated Dive MENA Expo hosts a series of talks each year and allows visitors to admire the in-depth demonstrations from world-famous professional divers, explorers and underwater photographers. If you choose to head to the watersport arena you can try out activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding for yourself.

Experience the magic of Dubai

Fast becoming one of the most recognized superyacht hubs in the world, Dubai and its surrounding community create an outstanding atmosphere in which to enjoy the show. If you need a break from all the excitement, there is an abundance of social activities to enjoy with DJ sets, cocktail soirees and chilled pop-up events on offer.

From Dubai marina, you will be within comfortable walking distance of Dubai’s signature nightlife and restaurants, allowing charter guests to continue their exploration of the region well into the night.

Need more information?

As charter yachts begin confirming their attendance for this year’s show, we will be sure to keep you updated.

If you want to make the most out of your experience at the Dubai International Boat Show this year, consider attending with a yacht charter broker; they will be able to guide you and help make your show experience as smooth and seamless as possible.

In order to arrange for a charter vacation in the region this year, please get in touch with your preferred charter broker or alternatively, take a look at the fleet of luxury yachts available to rent in Dubai.