Under the auspices of H.E. the Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the fifth edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) will soon set sail. Scheduled to be held from 13 March to 17 March 2018 at the Pearl-Qatar Island, the five-day event will play host to boats from 15 countries and will introduce the region’s boat enthusiasts to the latest technological advancements.

This year the highly anticipated show expects to attract over 90 impressive motorboats, luxury yachts and unique dhows. These will be displayed both on land and water and be complemented by exhibitor chalets, representing many of the top names in the maritime industry, both local and international, along the marina walkway.

During the press conference held recently, the organizers announced the appointment of Mr. Fadi Al Yousfi, who has more than 10 years of experience in the world of luxury yachts and international exhibitions as the Boat Show Director. They also announced that international manufacturers, exhibitors and international companies who specialize in the maritime industry will participate in this year’s edition of QIBS, in addition to the local companies working in this domain.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Khalid Issa Al Mannai, Chairman of Al Mannai Plus Events, the organizing company of Qatar International Boat Show said: "Thanks to God almighty we were able to put our print on the global map of international exhibitions specialized in the maritime industry. We are also grateful to the directions provided by our wise leadership, and the endless support of the state.”

“This year we are celebrating the 5th edition of the QIBS which has contributed big time 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,” he added.

For his part, Mr. Fadi Al Yousfi, Qatar International Boat Show 2018 Director commented: "We anticipate a huge turnout this year and that’s why we have taken the 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 on a daily basis to make this year’s exhibition a unique experience for 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 a growth ranging between 15 and 20 % in the number of exhibitors from the participating countries, and a 20% increase in the number of the displayed 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” Al Yousfi added.

Mr. Loay Dalis, Chief Executive Officer of Al Mannai Plus Events: "We are facing extraordinary conditions due to the violating and 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 grand opening of Hamad Port”.

Mr. Abdulrahim Al-Ibrahim, Executive Director Commercial of The Pearl-Qatar’s master-developer United Development Company (UDC) said: “We are delighted to host the 5th 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.”

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QNE

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