Dubai Pre-Owned Boat Show concludes with over Dh200 million worth of yachts on display
Over 50 yachts and boats exhibited under theme ‘A Boat for Everyone’
DUBAI – The 11th edition of the Pre-Owned Boat Show in Dubai has concluded at the Dubai Creek Marina, Park Hyatt Resort, following a three-day showcase that ran from October 31 to November 2.
Held under the slogan “A Boat for Everyone,” the event brought together more than 50 international brands displaying over 50 yachts and boats valued at more than Dh200 million.
The popular marine exhibition once again reinforced Dubai’s position as a regional hub for leisure marine innovation and a key marketplace for pre-owned boats. The opening ceremony drew senior government officials, industry leaders, and representatives from leading marine companies.
Pre-Owned Boat Show
This year’s edition drew over 5,000 visitors, including investors, marine enthusiasts, and potential buyers of luxury yachts and boats. Featuring an impressive range of high-quality and competitively priced vessels, the show provided an opportunity for both seasoned and first-time buyers to explore diverse ownership options.
The event took place amid strong growth across Dubai’s maritime sector. Data from the Dubai Maritime Authority at the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation showed that 7,738 vessels were registered in the emirate during 2024 – a 14.4% increase compared to the previous year.
The number of registered maritime crew members also climbed to 12,226, representing a 22.8 percent growth rate. These figures highlight the growing confidence of investors and operators in Dubai’s advanced maritime ecosystem and reaffirm its global leadership in sustainable marine innovation.
Global hub for boating
Abdulla Ali Al Noon stated that the Pre-Owned Boat Show continues to strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for the yacht industry and a premier destination for trade and investment in pre-owned boats.
He noted that the exhibition has become a fixture on the regional marine calendar. The theme “A Boat for Everyone” underlines efforts to make the boating lifestyle accessible to wider audiences by offering diverse models that suit different budgets. Al Noon also highlighted that the strong participation of international brands and visitors reflects Dubai’s leadership and innovation in advancing the leisure marine sector.
According to Al Noon, the Middle East recreational boating market is projected to reach $2.95 billion by 2027, growing at an annual rate of 4.9 percent. The increase is driven by expanding marine infrastructure, rising numbers of high-net-worth individuals, and continued growth in marine tourism.
He further explained that the Pre-Owned Boat Show contributes to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 by providing a strategic platform for deal-making, encouraging investments, and promoting sustainability through the circulation of pre-owned vessels. This approach reduces the need for new manufacturing and supports the UAE’s circular economy goals.
Expanding marine tourism
The event’s opening day recorded a strong turnout of visitors, reaffirming its role as a key highlight on both the regional and international marine events calendar. The exhibition showcased pre-owned boats ranging from 20 to more than 100 feet in length, offering a comprehensive experience for all boating enthusiasts.
Visitors also benefited from on-site financial, insurance, and maintenance services, along with access to spare parts and marine accessories. Expert consultants guided prospective buyers through each step – from selection to registration and insurance – ensuring a smooth and transparent ownership process.
The event was sponsored by DexNet and featured a retail zone dedicated to marine products and water sports equipment. Exhibitors presented the latest advancements in navigation systems, electric and hybrid propulsion, and eco-friendly marine technologies. These innovations demonstrated the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within Dubai’s maritime industry.
Driving investment and innovation
As the show concluded on Sunday, it left a lasting impression on both exhibitors and visitors for its scale and diversity. The annual exhibition, organised by Viya Marine and hosted at Dubai Creek Marina, continues to serve as a prime meeting point for global yacht manufacturers, dealers, and marine equipment retailers.
Dubai’s growing prominence in the maritime sector has positioned it as a gateway for regional investment. The UAE now accounts for nearly 50 percent of the GCC’s marina and yacht market, supported by world-class facilities, progressive regulations, and an expanding community of enthusiasts.