The 29th Dubai International Boat Show took place in Dubai Harbour from March 1 to March 5. It was hailed as the region's largest marine and lifestyle show. The 2023 edition featured over 1,000 exhibiting companies and brands from more than 60 countries, establishing Dubai's position as a premier location for maritime events.
According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the involvement of major global marine brands emphasises Dubai's growing reputation as an international hub for superyachts with world-class infrastructure. The event was supposed to draw more than 30,000 attendees, featuring an impressive display of 175 yachts and vessels.
DIBS2023 — on display
The show featured several famous superyacht builders such as Benetti, Lurssen, Feadship, Oceanco, Damen Yachting, Lloyd Werft, Nobiskrug, and Heesen. Oceanco unveiled a 131-metre concept named Aeolus during the show, while brokerage companies such as Ocean Independence, Burgess, and Boutique.yachts were also in attendance.
Several regional debuts occurred at the show, including Princess X95 and F45, Cranchi 78 and A46, and Beneteau Grand Trawler 62. The best-selling Ferretti 780 and Riva 88 Folgore also appeared at the show. Behnemar Yachting presented Cigarette boats at DIBS for the first time as the official dealer.
Azimut had a particularly strong presence at DIBS, showcasing its Azimut Fly 68 (a Gulf Premier), Fly 53, S10, and Grande 27M. The Middle East now accounts for 25% of Azimut brand sales, according to IBINews.
Sunreef showed up with Sunreef 60 Power Eco and Eco 80. Sanlorenzo Yacht with Sanlorenzo SL86 and Sanlorenzo 110.
Gulf Craft brought two yachts to the show: a brand new Majesty 122, a 34-metre vessel, highly anticipated by the media, and a Nomad 101. According to the deputy managing director at Gulf Craft, Abeer Al Shaali, the show was phenomenal.
DIBS2023 — during the show
The biggest yacht at the show was the 68.2-metre Soaring by Abeking & Rasmussen, which received a €10MM price reduction last October.
On March 2, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the show. He viewed several yachts debuting at the event, including the X95 Super Flybridge Yacht, Princess Yachts' flagship.
During the pandemic, DIBS became one of the first boat shows cancelled. However, the organisers brought the show back to life in 2022, establishing Dubai's fast-growing reputation as an international hub for superyachts with world-class infrastructure.
