With an impressive display valued at around $1.5 billion, The Dubai International Boat Show, 'DIBS', will feature superyachts up to 160m (524ft) in length. The event promises to showcase some of the world's most iconic and luxurious boats and yachts.
DIBS commands a significant international presence, with 52% of exhibitors visiting from outside the United Arab Emirates, UAE. The event spans a wide range of sectors, catering to yachting industry professionals, serious yacht buyers, and leisure visitors alike.
Exhibits include marine lifestyle products, superyachts, boats and tenders, marine equipment and gadgets, marina, and outdoor displays, as well as watersports, fishing, sailing, and diving gear.
Yachts at the Dubai International Boat Show
Each year, the Dubai harbour-based event draws major names from the yachting industry, including renowned boat builders like Sunseeker, Gulf Craft, and Feadship.
These shipyards and yacht brokers dominate the exclusive Superyacht Avenue, using the event to unveil new models and conduct sea trials with potential yacht buyers.
Gulf Craft's standout highlights at last year's show included the Majesty 111 and Nomad 101. Based in the UAE, Gulf Craft was one of the prominent local shipyards showcasing its innovative designs at Dubai Harbour.
Amongst many others, the Italian shipyard Riva presented the latest Diva 82 while frequent attendee Azimut showcased the S7.
Several notable yachts have had their world premieres at the Dubai International Boat Show.
Dutch builder Feadship presented the 66.25m superyacht VANISH at the 2019 show, and UK builder Princess Yachts revealed the X95 in 2021. The Benetti Oasis 40M premiered in 2022.
Superyacht Avenue is a highlight of the Dubai Boat Show. Visitors can admire these impressive yachts from the quayside, appreciating their immense size. Serious yacht buyers with broker arrangements will have appointments to board and view the yachts for sale at the show.
2025 Dubai International Boat Show Opening Times
The Dubai International Boat Show will be held at Dubai Harbour from 19-23 February 2025.
Wednesday 19 February:
The show opens to the media at 8:30am and to the public at 3pm, closing at 8pm.
Thursday, 20 February:
The show opens at 3pm.
Evening exhibitor events are invitation-only, with the showground remaining open until 1am.
Friday, 21 February, and Saturday, 22 February:
The show opens at 3pm, and closes at 9pm.
Sunday, 23 February:
The show opens at 3pm, and closes at 8pm.
Tickets and Access to DIBS 2025
The Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) releases a 'register your interest' application in advance for those planning to attend. Information about ticket prices, concessions, and VIP packages is published ahead of the February 2025 show dates.
Many yachts and superyachts on display at DIBS are accessible on an invitation-only basis.
Serious yacht buyers should contact their broker or dealer before attending the Dubai show to secure access to the yachts for sale. Early communication may also help ensure inclusion on guest lists for special events and exclusive hospitality.
Highlights and Hospitality at DIBS
The Dubai Boat Show is a vibrant mix of events, exhibitions, and experiences.
Join world-famous divers, explorers, and underwater photographers at the DIVE MENA Expo to learn about new techniques, technologies, and exciting underwater adventures. This expo features the latest in underwater technology and equipment, providing a unique platform for diving professionals and enthusiasts.
The Marina Display showcases the latest gadgets and water toys, tested by professionals to the delight of the crowd.
The Equipment, Supplies, and Services (ESS) expo is a vital resource, presenting the latest in marine equipment, ranging from satellite navigational systems to anchors, engines, deck fixtures, and entertainment systems.
Consultancy firm Knight Frank anticipates that up to 40% of ultra-high-net-worth individuals will likely attend the Dubai show over the 2025 and 2026 shows. The Marine Luxury Lifestyle exhibition allows visitors to immerse themselves in high-end displays showcasing the best in nautical design, marine technology, and innovation. This expo features everything from fashion and jewelry to the latest must-have gadgets onboard.
There are two distinct show areas for luxury cars at DIBS: Hypercar Avenue and Supercar Avenue.
Hypercar Avenue features the world's rarest and most exclusive high-performance vehicles, focusing on limited-edition and ultra-luxury models. This area is reserved for VIP guests.
Supercar Avenue showcases a broader range of high-end sports and luxury cars, including both high-performance and more widely recognized supercars, and is open to the general public.
Both avenues highlight exceptional vehicles but cater to different aspects of automotive luxury and exclusivity.
VIP Hospitality
The World of Yachts Lounge is the VIP base for exclusive ticket holders, hosted by Dutch yacht builder Feadship and the official magazine of the boat show. The space showcases the latest in yachting innovation and marine development projects and offers fine dining and refreshments.
The day before the show opens to the public, the Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference is held. This conference gathers over 200 leaders to discuss the show's topic: "How to Navigate and Win in the New Yachting Economy of the Middle East." Attendees will explore how the boating industry is collaborating to reinvigorate the region as a yachting hub.
To find out more about the upcoming show in Dubai Harbor, check out the YachtBuyer guide to the Dubai International Boat Show.
While you wait for the event to start, explore all yachts for sale to get ideas for your ideal yacht package.
