The first edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) will take place from November 12-16 at the Lusail Marina located in Lusail City.
QIBS will host events both on land and in the water as part of the event. Around 100 international and local exhibitors will attend the show with 150 boats on display. There will be five global and regional launches during the show which is expected to draw an estimated 15,000 visitors.
Addressing a press conference yesterday, Faysal Mikati, vice president of Snow Comms, the event’s organiser, said: “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. 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.”
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, said: ‘’We are very pleased that Lusail Marina is the official host venue for this important event and to continue our support towards the local boating industry. The Qatar boat show is a great step for the marina and boating community in Qatar, as the industry continues to grow and as Doha continues on its path to becoming a premier yachting destination in the Gulf.’’
The Lusail Marina is operated by Dubai-based marina developer and manager Mourjan Marinas. QIBS 2013 promises 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.
The opening hours will be from 3pm to 9.30pm for both trade professionals and the general public. It will host 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.
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 breath-taking ambience of the Lusail Marina and numerous entertainment shows from Europe”, organsiers said.
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 Lusail City development. 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 the yacht, deck wash for all yachts and a refreshment kiosk.
