Qatar International Boat Show from March 13

DOHA: The upcoming fifth edition of Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) has witnessed growth in the number of participants despite the siege, proving the show’s strong position in the field of maritime exhibitions.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Fadi Al Yousfi, QIBS 2018 Director, said the show has seem  increase in the number of exhibitors and participating vessels and is anticipated to attract more visitors.

“Through the previous editions, we have succeeded in occupying a prestigious position in the world of marine exhibitions, and in the local market as a preferred destination. In accordance with this, we are seeing growth between 15 to 20 percent in the number of exhibitors from the participating countries, and 20 percent increase in the number of boats, yachts and vessels. Moreover, we expect the number of visitors to surpass 15,000 during the exhibition days especially with the increase of side events and activities accompanying the exhibition such as marine tours, prizes, water activities, marine races and relevant seminars” said Al Yousfi.  To be held from March 13 to 17 at The Pearl Qatar, QIBS  is expected to see an impressive line-up of 90 motorboats, luxury yachts and unique dhows from 15 countries, organisers announced yesterday.

The vessels will be displayed on land and water and be complemented by exhibitor chalets, representing many of the top names in the local and international maritime industry along the marina walkway.  Under the auspices of the Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the show will introduce boat enthusiasts to the latest technological advancements in the field. “We anticipate a huge turnout this year, that’s why we have taken necessary measures such as increasing the visiting hours. Furthermore, there will be a number of food and beverage outlets and an array of captivating side events happening daily to make this year’s exhibition a unique experience for visitors,” added Al Yousfi. Khalid Issa Al Mannai, Chairman of Al Mannai Plus Events, organisers, expressed deep appreciation on the state’s support for the event.

“This year we are celebrating the fifth edition of the QIBS which has contributed in a big way in supporting the tourism and exhibitions industry. This has also encouraged private sector investment in the marine industry and exhibitions held during the previous years which have witnessed a huge number of deals worth millions of riyals in addition to attracting thousands of visitors and marine life fans from all over the globe to visit Qatar,” said Al Mannai.

Loay Dalis, CEO of Al Mannai Plus Events said: “We are facing extraordinary conditions due to the unjust blockade on the State of Qatar. Nevertheless, we will prove to the world that the Qatar International Boat Show has been a global platform for attracting businessmen and investors specialists in this sector as we are witnessing increasing numbers of investors in shipyards, maintenance services, marine consultancy, international brand and new brands that have never been in the region before especially after the opportunities offered by the state after the opening of Hamad Port.”

Abdulrahim Al Ibrahim, Executive Director Commercial of The Pearl-Qatar’s master-developer United Development Company (UDC) said: “We are delighted to host the fifth edition of Qatar International Boat Show especially due to the fact that The Pearl is considered an iconic destination by lovers of the maritime industry. Nautical activities like this are experiencing rapidly growing interest in the country and The Pearl-Qatar is an obvious destination for water-sports enthusiasts, with its pleasant waters, safe beaches, world-class equipment and award-winning marina infrastructure.”