The Dubai International Boat Show’s watersports and leisure marine pursuits have proved a hit with visitors.

Renowned for being one of the world’s premier shows for high-end yachts, organisers have added a wider range of more affordable boats and watercraft, along with some popular watersports.

The new beach demo area hosted the first of the show’s extreme water sports demonstrations, with a jet pack daredevil performing stunts in front of excited spectators. After a thrilling performance, the beach opened up for the first in a series of taster sessions of popular water sports, with visitors experiencing jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing, free surfing and jet surfing for the first time. 

Beyond the beach, others took to the water for hands-on boating and fishing experiences in the open water.

With 25,000 visitors expected to attend the boat show during its five days, organisers at Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Marine Club are increasing its appeal for families and first-time boat buyers. Along with new activities, the event also features a new dining concept in the form of Sahtein, a gourmet food event, and live entertainment to create a festival atmosphere.

Now in its 24^th edition, the show is being held at the Dubai International Marine Club - Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.

The show runs until March 5 and is open to trade visitors and the public from 3 pm to 9.30 pm daily. A single entry ticket cost of Dh60 ($16).