Abu Dhabi International Boat Show kicks off this week with many activities for families

A drama show depicting the story of a well-know Emirati navigator in maritime, Ibin Majid, on how he travelled the world and the sailing methods he used in the old days, fishing sea-food competitions and marine recreational activities are among the activities organised for families at this year's boat show in Abu Dhabi.
The second edition of the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) 2019, taking place at Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (Adnec) from October 16 to 19, will draw participation of 284 local, regional and international companies and brands.
Khalifa Al Qubaisi, chief commercial officer of Adnec Group said at a press conference on Sunday a head of ADIBS: "In organising the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, Adnec seeks to diversify its portfolio of specialised exhibitions that support key sectors and industries identified by Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. The event also demonstrates the importance accorded by Adnec for the promotion of the emirate's marine environment and revival of its rich maritime heritage".
He added: "Within a short span of time since its inception, ADIBS successfully attracted several prominent international names in the leisure marine sector and received overwhelming response from leading local, regional and international companies to participate in its activities. Furthermore, we have dedicated a pavilion for hosting the UAE national companies to showcase their latest products and demonstrate the level of progress the UAE-based companies have achieved in leisure marine industry."
"This year, we have created a new pavilion for UAE startup companies to support them in the boat industry," Saeed Al Mansouri, Executive Director of International Defence Exhibition (Idex),
"Also, we have organised a number of activities that will show the history of UAE maritime and talks about how our fore fathers and grand fathers went through the maritime, fishing and driving. It will show how fishing, driving, actions of the pearls was done using old equipment and old methods.
"Families will be entertained by drama shows on the old fishing and sailing methods as well as different competitions in the field of fishing."
According to organizers, ADIBS 2019 will provide an unprecedented opportunity for local, regional and international exhibitors to showcase the latest offerings and trends in the latest yachts, leisure marine and fishing equipment industries.
The event will be a unique blend of state-of-the-art yachts, international leisure marine alongside UAE's rich maritime history. Apart from the display of sophisticated marine leisure vessels and equipment, visitors will be able to enjoy virtual reality fishing or get active on the water with powerboat training or learn from top fishing experts and influencers.
ADIBS will take place at the 31,000sqm purpose-built Adnec Marina that allows yachts of all sizes to be berthed and displayed immediately in front of their respective stands.
"The event will also draw the participation of 284 companies and exhibitors, compared to 270 in 2018, registering a 5 percent growth," said Al Mansouri.
Meanwhile, ADIBS 2019 will see a four per cent rise in the number of participating countries, which increased from 25 countries in 2018 to 26 countries in 2019. National companies will account for 48 per cent of exhibitors, while the number of boats and yachts confirmed for participation stand at 75.
Al Mansouri added: "ADIBS 2019 will be a crowd-puller by featuring a spectacular array of watersports and marine recreational activities that will give visitors several reasons to come and enjoy the show."
Over its three-day run, the exhibition will welcome visitors, professionals and families from 4pm to 10pm. Tickets for ADIBS can be purchased through the show's website or at the exhibition entrance.
- ismail@khaleejtimes.com