The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) returns to Marina Hall at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi for its 2024 edition. The event, which runs from 21-24 November, is the largest marine event in Abu Dhabi, attracting over 34,000 visitors annually. ADIBS, introduced in 2018 and returns this year for its sixth iteration, has become an emblem of Abu Dhabi’s thriving superyacht scene.
Here’s what you can expect at the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show:
Superyacht Specialists: Maxoel Yachts and YATCO
The Gulf region has witnessed a surge in superyacht tourism in recent years, chiefly due to the harmonized regulations, advantageous weather, and proper infrastructure of marinas. While Dubai and Saudi Arabia are seen as developed superyachting hubs in their own right, it is arguably Abu Dhabi that is responsible for putting The Middle East’s nautical offering on the map when the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix first took place in 2009, attracting an assemblage of vessels.
The sporting spectacle emanates from the Yas Marina CIrcuit every year, and aside from Monaco, Abu Dhabi’s version of the racing competition is the only one to boast trackside berths with a marina that accommodates superyachts up to 175 meters in length. From there, the UAE has continued increasing its appeal to the global fleet and is only scratching the surface. “The super yacht market in the UAE and broader Middle East region is poised for rapid growth. We anticipate an increasing number of local clients embracing yachting, alongside an influx of international yacht owners bringing their vessels to this region to explore its beautiful waters and enjoy the year-round sunshine,” said YATCO, a global online marketplace for yachting founded in 2000, and an exhibitor at this year’s ADIBS, who plan to utilize the event to continue positioning the platform in the region, further stating. “At the boat show, our primary objective is to strengthen our relationships with existing clients and partners, while showcasing how our technology elevates operations for brokers and businesses. Additionally, we aim to grow our brand awareness amongst consumers as the platform to buy or charter a vessel.”
In addition, Abu Dhabi stands as one of the earliest adopters of establishing the region to become a global superyacht destination when it introduced long-term navigational licenses for foreign flags over 15 years ago. Today, events such as ADIBS continue to serve this vision, creating a stage for exhibitors including brokerage houses and charter companies to build their clientele. “Participating in events like the Abu Dhabi Boat Show reflects our commitment to reinforcing the region’s position as a key player in the global superyacht industry,” said Maxoel Yachts, a charter company based in Dubai since 2010. “The MAXOEL vision is to build on this momentum by presenting yachts and boats that align with global trends. Events like the Abu Dhabi Boat Show allow us to highlight our innovative offers, lead to new collaborations, and inspire confidence in the region’s potential as a premier yachting destination.”
ADIBS Specials: The Knowledge Box Programme and M/V Jaywun
A unique selling point of this event is the introduction of “The Knowledge Box”, an interactive space dedicated to visitors who have recently gotten into the boating lifestyle. On-site experts will be able to respond to any queries on boat purchases or leisure marine activities.
Furthermore, Fresh off of a win at the Work Boat World Awards for Best Large Research Vessel for 2023 M/V Jaywun, the most advanced oceanographic fishery research vessel in the region, is making her return to the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show this week.
The 47-meter vessel is built by Freire Shipyard and is owned by Abu Dhabi’s Environment Agency. Her features include underwater drones and six individual laboratories. The vessel is capable of conducting fisheries studies, physical studies of oceans, the studies of marine biology, and marine geology
The vessel houses a crew of 30 personnel, and thanks to its state-of-the-art equipment, the vessel was able to achieve the first eDNA baseline and genomic sequencing of fish species in UAE’s waters in 2023, led the world’s first offshore atmospheric research expedition, was being delivered from Spain to the UAE and conducted a microplastics survey.
Sunreef’s Catamaran Display
At ADIBS, luxury catamaran builder Sunreef Yachts will feature two of its latest vessels, Sunreef 80 Eco and 80 Sunreef Power Eco.
Solar-powered and generating energy under sail, the Sunreef 80 Eco is the most advanced sustainable luxury catamaran. It is an all-electric, fully-autonomous craft with fuel-free emissions thanks to its revolutionary green technology. Within its hull sides, mast, superstructure, and bimini roof, the Sunreef 80 Eco finds ultralight composite-integrated solar panels, and its propelled by the twin 180kW electric engines.
Meanwhile, the 80 Sunreef Power Eco is a four-cabin catamaran powered by two electric 180kW engines and a 440kWh ultralight battery bank, alongside Sunreef Yachts’ solar power system featuring solar cells built into the composite bodywork for maximum energy efficiency. The 80 Sunreef Exo finds a jacuzzi on the bow terrace, an invisible aft garage, and an outdoor gym area.
“We invest a lot of time and effort in R&D. The result is a full range of eco-responsible yachts combining unique solar power solutions with clean propulsion and innovative design. The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show presents a great opportunity to showcase our yachts in an environment that appreciates innovation and creativity,” said Sunreef Founder and President Francis Lapp.
Representatives from Sunreef Yachts can be found at the M042 stand.
Tickets
Tickets are categorized into Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, in addition to group packages for six individuals. More information can be found on the official website.