Yachting Ventures (YV), the leading media and events platform for startups and emerging tech in the leisure marine industry, is set to launch a dedicated Innovation Zone for start-ups at the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2025. Taking place from February 19-23 2025, at Dubai Harbour, this initiative will offer a platform for start-ups to showcase their technologies and solutions to an expected audience of over 30,000 visitors.

Now in its 31st edition, DIBS is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and the annual showcase connects maritime enthusiasts through unforgettable experiences of cutting-edge marine technology, luxury yachts, and sustainable solutions, paired with a reimagined hospitality experience. This years’ introduction of the Innovation Zone reflects growing regional demand for technological innovation and sustainable solutions. 

The UAE’s startup ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth, boasting over 5,600 registered companies by the second quarter of 2024, driven by Dubai’s commitment to fostering a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With world-class infrastructure, access to international talent, business-friendly regulations, a dynamic investment landscape, and unmatched market access, the UAE provides an ideal launchpad for startups. 

Gabbi Richardson, founder of YV, emphasized the opportunity this presents for the leisure marine industry, “Having spent more time in the UAE recently, it’s clear that the region is fast becoming a global hub for the yachting industry. Startups will play a crucial role in shaping its future and by launching the Startup Zone, we aim to connect early-stage companies with investors, industry leaders, and decision-makers who can help the startups we support scale in the UAE and broader Middle East region.” 

The Innovation Zone at DIBS offers startups a cost-effective entry point into the UAE market, benefiting from the extensive media coverage and content generated by YV. Beyond the exhibition space, startups will gain access to a comprehensive 360-degree marketing effort that includes press releases, content creation, and networking opportunities. The Innovation Zone will provide high visibility for these emerging companies and facilitate valuable connections with investors, industry leaders, and decision-makers. 

Applications are now open for startups interested in joining the Innovation Zone at DIBS 2025. Spots will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with the YV team managing the selection process to identify the most promising and impactful startups. Eligible startups are defined as companies that have been operating commercially for less than five years and/or have an annual turnover of less than €1 million. 

Interested startups can apply here, or contact hello@yachtingventures.co for more information. 

• A world-class experience aligned with Dubai’s economic growth and vision for 2025
• Expanded footprint and key stage for stunning waterfront real estate developments
• Celebrating maritime lifestyle in one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities

February 13, 2025, Dubai, UAE: Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) is readying for its 31^st edition, with more than 30,000 visitors expected at Dubai Harbour to experience the globe’s most exciting maritime lifestyle event held at one of the region’s most sophisticated marinas.

Taking place from 19-23 February, the Dubai International Boat Show will showcase over 200 yachts and watercraft, featuring world-renowned brands such as Azimut, Ferretti, Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, and Yachts One. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, the event continues to expand opportunities for the maritime community—not only presenting the finest in yacht and boat craftsmanship but also introducing a dedicated brokerage section for premium pre-owned yachts, highlighting luxury waterfront real estate, unveiling the latest in marine technology, and fostering new business connections within a reimagined hospitality experience.

Focus on sustainability 

The much-anticipated five-day event takes place for a fourth consecutive year at the Dubai Harbour. With an ever-growing focus on sustainability across both the industry and the emirate, the show is the ideal stage to demonstrate exhibitors’ ongoing efforts to promote a more environmentally friendly maritime sector and further underpin the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030.

“Entering its 31st edition, the Dubai International Boat Show continues to evolve in response to the shifting dynamic of the maritime industry,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre. “This year, we are introducing new avenues to expand opportunities for our audience—from a dedicated brokerage section, where buyers can explore a premium selection of pre-owned yachts through expert intermediaries, to an Innovation Zone designed to empower SMEs driving the future of marine technology. As the region’s leading platform for the yachting and maritime sector, DIBS remains at the forefront of innovation, investment, and industry collaboration.”

“As the host and long-term partner of the Dubai International Boat Show, we are proud to contribute to maritime advancements with state-of-the-art facilities and the largest marina in the region that continually sets new benchmarks for luxury and service. Welcoming the 31st edition of the iconic event, we reaffirm our commitment to enhancing Dubai’s status as a premier superyacht destination and global maritime hub, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of yachting and seafront living, ” said Abdulla Binhabtoor, CEO of Shamal.

Industry significance and international reach
With a rise of 12.28 per cent in yachts visiting the UAE in the 2023/2024 season, DIBS underscores Dubai’s commitment to accelerating yacht tourism and furthering the city’s position as a top global destination for maritime activities. .

Mohammed Alshaali, Chairman, Gulf Craft said: “The Dubai International Boat Show has always been more than an exhibition for Gulf Craft – it is a celebration of the incredible journey Dubai has taken to become a global marine and superyacht hub. Over the years, this show has mirrored the country’s bold vision, showcasing world-class innovation and connecting us with a diverse audience of enthusiasts, investors, and pioneers. For Gulf Craft, it is an opportunity to highlight not just our achievements but our shared commitment with Dubai to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the maritime world. We are honoured to be part of this iconic event that continues to set new standards for the industry and the region.”

With Dubai on track for another record-breaking year in tourism figures, DIBS is also gearing up to welcome a significant percentage of its visitors from around the world and exhibitors from 60+ countries, including, new for 2025, Croatia, Japan, Luxembourg, Romania, Singapore, and Slovenia. 

Innovation Hub 
With cornerstone events a significant contributor to the ongoing development of Dubai’s economy, DIBS provides not only a platform for established shipbuilders and suppliers, but also a space for startups and entrepreneurs to make their mark on the sector. An Innovation Hub, which launches at the 2025 edition, expects to provide a platform for eight of the industry’s newest SMEs. 

This year, DIBS has also evolved into a key stage for luxury real estate, showcasing stunning waterfront projects from developers such as Damac, Sobha Realty, and Omniyat that reflect a growing demand for bespoke marina living, and a new brokerage section features industry leaders, including Burgess, Behnemar, and Royal Yachts. Also new for 2025 is a wellbeing lounge where boat crew and captains can relax, unwind, and learn how to ensure their physical and mental health is taken care of during long voyages. 

Beloved returning features 
DIVE MENA, the only dedicated show for the UAE and GCC diving community, will make its return to DIBS, bringing an expanded dive tank to wow visitors with demonstrations and fun activities.

Back for 2025, the Proudly UAE initiative honours the country’s rich maritime heritage with locally-made vessels; Supercar Avenue will display 25 of the rarest and most-coveted high-performance cars in the world; specialised trade expos for Equipment Supplies & Services and Marine Luxury & Lifestyle are also confirmed for the show, ensuring visitors can access all elements of maritime life in one space.

Acting as a curtain raiser to the dynamic showcase, The Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference returns on 18 February with 200 experts lined up to discuss the most pressing and exciting developments in the sector, under the theme of ‘The New Nautical Code: Innovation, Influence, and Experience.’

Tickets for DIBS are on sale now at: dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/dubai-internation-boat-show