The 2015 Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) opens today featuring no fewer than 85 boats, including seven superyachts and a host of activities for discerning maritime enthusiasts. 

Now in its third edition, the five-day show promises to outperform its two predecessors in both size and scope, says Faysal Mikati, Founder and CEO of SnowComms, the organiser of the show.

“QIBS has been at the forefront of attracting interest in the growing maritime sector. This is leading to the continuous and accelerated growth of the country’s manufacturing industry, which means that it is already a worthy competitor to other major countries and manufacturers around the world.

“The expanding scope of the international showcase is having a positive impact on tourism, marine developments and promoting Qatar as an international designation, which is in line with Brand Qatar’s latest campaign. International companies are becoming more aware of the myriad of business opportunities in the country, while the numbers of international exhibitors and international media are also proliferating as they come to this event to network with their peers and to discover the latest advancements in the maritime industry,” he says.

International exhibitors at QIBS 2015 include Azimut, Sea Ray, Princess, Ferreti, Riva, Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, Prestige, Itama, Benetti, Sunreef, Silver Yachts, Heesen Yachts, Hullsquared, Lagoon, Amer Yachts, Cranchi, Everglades, Sealine, Fountaine-Pajot, Scarab, Riviera, Mondo Marine, Regal, and more. 

In addition, the Qatari maritime industry will showcase companies such as NDSQ (Nakilat Damen Shipyards Qatar), Halul Boats, Balhambar Boats and Al Udeid Boats. 

There will also be more side events at the show this year, including awards, cruises, dedicated exhibitor parties, evening gatherings, nautical activities, sea races and seminars. 

“Many of our visitors will be interested in the many firsts at QIBS 2015, from international product launches, VIP water shuttles, fly boarding displays and a special kids area. These unique showcases are only rivalled by the huge impact within the maritime industry. QIBS has been at the very forefront of successfully facilitating deals between Qatari companies and international agencies, very much in line with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, to position the country as a world class tourism hub for business, leisure, culture, education and sport. In short, Qatar can be said to be rediscovering its ancient maritime traditions,” comments Pantelis Stathis, Boat Show Director. 

Abdulaziz Al Zeyara, Director – Strategic & Corporate Planning of Lusail Real Estate Investment Company, said that as Lusail City is a global hub for business, entertainment, education, culture, and sports, it was only fitting that QIBS should once again go with Lusail Marina as a venue. 

“Lusail Marina – where QIBS is being held – is viewed as one of the top marinas attracting boating aficionados in the region,” he says. “For this edition of QIBS, we ensured the Marina is ready to accommodate larger boats and yachts by deepening the basin and the entrances to meet the current and future needs of sea life and watersports enthusiasts. 

“The people of Qatar have always been known for their great passion for sea activities, and Lusail Marina is a true reflection of that passion. And, by contributing to supporting and sponsoring this global event, we are reaffirming once again our commitment to supporting and sponsoring the prosperous economic activities that help achieve the national vision of our beloved country.”

The show will be inaugurated at 4 pm by Qatar’s Minister of Economy and Trade Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al Thani, followed by exclusive private yacht viewings for VIP guests from 6.30 pm until 8 pm. 

To round off the special week, there will be a closing ceremony at 9.30 pm on November 14 in which yachts throughout the harbour will sound their horns – much like the tradition of yachts sounding their horns upon completion of the Monaco Boat Show. 

QIBS 2015 is being held from November 10 to 14 from 2.30 pm to 9.30 pm for the first three days, and from 12.30 pm to 9.30 pm on Friday and Saturday.