The Dubai International Boat Show or more commonly known as “DIBS” is set to open its doors between March 1st and 5th and is anticipating thousands of visitors. Visitors will be given the chance to peruse around hundreds of luxury boats and of course get up-to-speed on all of the latest trends and emerging products within the boating industry. Organised and hosted by the Dubai World Trade Centre, this event is set to attract over 20,000 visitors from over 70 countries.

Why is it worth going to the emirate state for this exciting event? We’ve listed our top ten reasons below:

1. This is the 19th annual DIBS and the Dubai World Trade Centre has nearly 30 years experience in hosting world-class events. Taking place throughout the prestigious Dubai International Marine Club, this event is poised to be one of the ‘don’t miss’ events of 2011. Be there!

2. The Middle East is quickly establishing itself as a leader in marine/leisure markets in the world, with numerous world-wide product launches already under the regions’ belt, Dubai pulls weight in the boating industry. The Dubai International Boat Show has already confirmed over 30 global product launches and has set an excellent line-up of outdoor events and activities.

3. Luxmarina, an industry leader in luxury marine design, has chosen the Dubai International Boat Show, to host a set of key industry forums and meetings. They will be discussing their work on the design and management of ports and marinas throughout the world. Want to see how the best design? Be sure to sign-up for these events

4. Be sure to check out the “Enhanced” Superyacht Pavilion! This area is a stretch of luxury, offering exclusive space to yachts that are 25 feet and longer. Now we at The Marine Guide know that not everyone can afford these luxury vessels, but it sure is fun to take a tour through!

5. This year’s DIBS, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, will also showcase the launch of a new Supercar Promenade – featuring a number of high-performance custom and modified road vehicles.

6. Great opportunities for networking! Global events like this only come around a few times a year and if your interest is specifically within the Middle East, use this event as a springboard to go out and rub shoulders with the movers and shakers of the boating industry. Now the event is only 5 days, so it might be best to put together a schedule to best maximize your time! Check out the Dubai International Boat Show website for details on events, exhibitor layout and such (www.boatshowdubai.com)! Just a note here – if you’re attending the event for pleasure, all you will need is a nice coffee and a comfortable pair of shoes! Either way, be sure to take time to just relax and enjoy this wonderful event

7. Superyachts Galore! As stated above, with the new “Enhanced” Superyacht Pavilion, The Dubai International Boat Show will feature the largest ever cluster of SYBAss (Superyacht Builders Association) members, the world’s most prestigious superyacht association. Several SYBAss members have confirmed their participation at the show in 2011.Together with supporting partner Officine Panerai, manufacturers of world class timepieces, the event will cater to the entire marine lifestyle audience.

8. The 19th Annual Dubai International Boat Show not only offers visitors a variety of activities and products promoting “out of or above water” experiences, but also lets visitors get into the water as well! The 5th Annual Dive Middle East Exhibition will be held . There will be diving demonstrations in indoor pools, highlighting the latest in dive equipment and gear, new technologies and even giving visitors the chance to literally get their feet wet!

9. It’s not just about a great event! Whether you attended boat shows in London, Miami or Seattle, the experience doesn’t end when the event closes their doors. Night-time events will pick-up where the event drops off, leaving visitors with a list a mile-long of things to do and people to meet. Dubai is a city of experiences, whether dancing, dining or cruising, this city is teeming with options for visitors with budgets of all sizes. Check out the Dubai Department Tourism website for all of the latest travel news and information! www.dubaitourism.ae/

10. For the relatively inexpensive admission price of under £10, this event is well worth the entrance fee! Couple that with the opportunity to see a truly exhilarating destination and you have a holiday-of-a-lifetime!