The first ever Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) 2013 is set to provide an industry networking platform, generating solid opportunities for the promotion of new boats and services and creating a luxury market for affluent Middle Eastern and Asian buyers.
Taking place on 12-16 November at the Lusail Marina, located within Lusail City, QIBS will host events both on land and in the water, with around 100 international and local exhibitors attending, 150 boats on display, five global and regional launches and an estimated 15,000 visitors.
Trade professionals and the general public will be able to access the marina from 3.00pm to 9.30pm, and will be able to see a variety of motorboats, cruisers, yachts, fishing boats, speedboats, recreational family boats up to 30m in size, and leisure marine products.
In addition, dedicated areas will be available, offering information and advice regarding boat servicing, insurance, accessories, water sports, navigation equipment, engines, fixtures and fittings, as well as fishing products.
Lusail Marina is a flagship yachting destination and the premier marina facility in the Middle East located along the coast just north of Doha in the prestigious Lusail City development.
Operated by Dubai-based marina developer and manager Mourjan Marinas, it features 93 modern floating berths that can host yachts of 10-40 metres in length. Facilities and services include three lounge areas with contemporary shade structures, underwater lighting, black and grey water ‘pump-out’ at the berths, 24-hour security, a five-star concierge service, marina cart service to and from your yacht, deck wash for all yachts, and a refreshment kiosk.
Faysal Mikati, Vice President of Snow Comms, the event’s organiser, presented an overview of the boat show in light of the current situation of the maritime industry in the region, and the potential benefits that the QIBS can bring to Qatar.
“We have already signed with some of the biggest marine and leisure supply companies and distributors who seek to capitalise on Qatar’s booming economy and the upcoming marine industry,” he said.
“The plan is to put Qatar on the map in terms of the international boat show circuit by becoming one of the main destinations for regional yacht and boat companies, as well as international companies involved in leisure and water sports, seeking investment opportunities in the GCC markets, estimated at around QR750m.
“Recent studies on salaries of senior management executives, who are key customers for yachts and luxury boats, have revealed that disposable income of managers in the GCC is the highest in the world with all Gulf countries dominating the top six rankings,” he added.
Abdulaziz Al Zeyara, Strategic Planning Senior Manager, Lusail Real Estate Development Company, said: ”Lusail Marina aims to become the number one destination for the yachting circuit in Qatar and Lusail City is pleased to be hosting the first edition of the Qatar International Boat Show as we are confident it will be a huge success.’’
Wayne Shepherd, General Manager, Mourjan Marinas, added: “The Qatar Boat Show is a great step for the marina and boating community here in Qatar, as the industry continues to grow and as Doha continues on its path to becoming a premier yachting destination in the Gulf.’’
Visitors to the event will not only get to see the latest maritime products and boats but will also be able to enjoy amazing opening and closing ceremonies, the breathtaking ambience of the Lusail Marina, and numerous entertainment shows from Europe.
Organised by international agency Snow Comms, and licensed by the Qatar Tourism Authority, the first Qatar International Boat Show 2013 will showcase a promising display of yachts, boats and marine accessories. The event is set to become an ideal marketing and networking platform for leading industry players in the boating and maritime sector in Qatar.
In conclusion, Mikati said: “We are grateful to our current sponsors, Lusail City, Mourjan Marinas, Qatar Airways as the official carrier, ‘World of Yachts and Boats’ as the official magazine and ‘Sur La Terre’ as the lifestyle partner, and we are also finalising further sponsorships with other prestigious companies in Qatar.”
Visit www.qibs2013.com