The sixth edition of the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS), the largest to date, officially began on November 21, at the Marina Hall of the Adnec Centre in Abu Dhabi. 

 

Running until November 24, the event has seen a 15% increase in exhibition space compared to last year, reaching 75,000 sq m. The number of exhibitors and brands grew by 14%, totalling 813 compared to 711 in the previous edition.

 

The number of boats on display surged by 66%, with 175 boats showcased compared to 105 in 2023. Additionally, marina boats increased by 127% to 125, alongside a 50% rise in boats exceeding 15 metres in length.

 

56 countries

A total of 56 countries are participating in this year’s show, with six making their debut: Luxembourg, Greece, Sweden, Egypt, Bahrain, and Russia—a 19% increase from the 47 countries represented in the previous edition.

 

Organised by Adnec Group under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the event offers a rich programme of activities and marine sports that highlight the latest innovations in marine lifestyles. 

 

Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, the four-day show provides a host of family-friendly activities and unique experiences.

 

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of Adnec Group, said: “The sixth edition of the ADIBS marks significant growth in space and participation from leading local and international companies in the marine sector. This reflects the success of Adnec Group’s efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the event regionally and internationally.”

 

Specialised events

Al Dhaheri expressed gratitude to the UAE’s wise leadership for their unwavering support, ensuring the success of the largest edition in the show’s history. He emphasised that this aligns with Adnec Group’s strategy to position Abu Dhabi as the region’s capital for specialised events.

 

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment and exceptional initiatives, including daily Wave Parades, cultural and artistic performances such as Al Ayala traditional dances, Emirati bands, drum shows, and over 1,000 family-oriented activities. The programme also includes fireworks displays, aerial acrobatics, and free boat tours for local and international visitors.

 

ADIBS serves as a leading platform to support innovation in the marine industry, promoting sustainability and marine conservation. The event aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision to establish itself as a preferred destination for marine sports, leveraging its more than 200 islands and pristine beaches ideal for water-based activities.

 

The show is organised by Adnec Group in partnership with Abu Dhabi Maritime (Strategic Partner), the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (Knowledge and Sustainability Partner), and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (Official Destination Partner).--TradeArabia News Service