Superyachts & Champagne Lounges: Inside Dubai’s International Boat Show in 2026

Save the April dates for DIBS. Dubai International Boat Show is one of the world’s best events for yachting enthusiasts. Picturesque Dubai Harbour gathers over 1000 brands with a stunning backdrop of the Dubai Marina skyline and the gargantuan Ain Dubai (the world’s tallest observation wheel). Whether you’re a buyer, a yacht owner, a captain, a trader, or simply a yacht aficionado, there are many awesome things to do. From browsing the superyachts to attending an industry conference and partying at the invitation-only cocktail parties—it’s always interesting at DIBS. Here’s everything you should know before attending in 2026.

Overview

The story of the Dubai International Boat Show, in many ways, reflects the city’s rapid development. 1992 marked the first edition of DIBS, featuring a modest number of 50 exhibitors and 3 thousand attendees. As Dubai grew as a trading and yachting hub, so did the show. Today, DIBS is among the largest and most respected events in the Asia-Pacific region. 30,000 visitors attended its 2025 edition, and the show is now proudly held at spectacular Dubai Harbour. 

The present-day Dubai International Boat Show isn’t just a showcase of superyachts—it’s a multi-day celebration of the maritime industry, with a diverse program, including vessel display, brand exhibitions, trading and investment booths, entertainment, real estate, and even supercars. All yachting-themed, of course. It’s a great place to browse the world’s most exclusive boats, eye an investment, choose your next charter, network with like-minded yacht lovers, and simply have a great time in warm Dubai in April.

Dates, Hours & Location

The 32nd edition of Dubai International Boat Show takes place on 8-12 April 2026. 

The show opens at 4 PM and closes at 9 PM daily. 

The event’s location is Dubai Harbour. It’s a brand-new district, combining an ultra-modern marina, a large cruise terminal and exclusive real estate between Palm Jumeirah and Marina Dubai. There’s plenty of space and killer views of the famous Dubai skyline. 

What to Expect

The crème de la crème of the yachting industry will be there. The show is a meeting ground for the world’s premier maritime brands, including Feadship, Ferretti, Azimut, Yachts One, and Bermuda. But it’s the themed locations that make DIBS a must-visit. 

Superyacht Avenue is the main star of the event, where over 200 luxurious yachts will be showcased. For brands and owners, it’s a great chance to present their vessel and find potential partners. For visitors, it’s a fantastic yachting playground, where you can watch and experience the boats on display. 

It’s not only superyachts there—at DIBS, you will also see cruisers, motorboats, flybridge yachts, catamarans, and sailing yachts. If you’re into vessels, you know the excitement of being able to see so many state-of-the-art yachts at once—it’s a maritime Stendhal Syndrome, no less.

In recent years, DIBS has broadened its themes. There’s an Equipment, Supplies, and Services (ESS) expo, featuring a display of the latest cutting-edge maritime tech. A Marine Luxury Lifestyle section is filled with lifestyle brands. A Dive Zone Expo is a specialized zone with all things underwater exploration. The exhibition also includes underwater photography classes. As Dubai shifts its long-term strategy into innovation and sustainability, DIBS reflects this direction by having a dedicated section for maritime innovation-focused startups.

What makes the Dubai International Boat Show stand out is the activities agenda. Yes, it’s not only walking around and networking— you can actually have fun in the water. The licensed divers can register to experience the Dive Pool. This zone also organizes fun underwater encounters for families with kids. You can also pre-book a spot for sailing and powerboat experiences. A water sports show kicks off daily, where you can see the jet ski and kite surfing stunts performed by the pros. 

DIBS went further with showcasing luxury, dedicating zones to waterfront real estate developments. Another cool feature of the 2026 event will be a Supercar Avenue, featuring top car brands on display. The VIP Lounge by AIX Investment and Privé Lounge by The World of Yacht will be set up for a more exclusive savoring of the event. There’s also a Proudly UAE area, which showcases the country’s centuries-old maritime heritage and modern innovations. 

Dining Options

DIBS will have a special Food and Beverage area, with various restaurants. It’s a vibrant, open-air space with a festival-like ambiance, albeit with a luxurious edge. Traditionally, Nikki Beach will transport its iconic beach bar experience to the Dubai Harbor. You’ll also find well-known international food chains, such as Häagen-Dazs, and numerous food trucks offering international and Emirati dishes. 

But then, you can always profit from the extensive dining proposition of Palm Jumeirah and Marina Dubai nearby. Some of Dubai’s most fashionable restaurants are next to Dubai Harbour. Set on the 45th floor of the Grosvenor House Hotel is the two-Michelin-starred Row on 45, offering a creative Japanese-French fusion menu and fantastic views. 

The show’s proximity to the Palm Jumeirah neighborhood opens doors to more exceptional culinary experiences. Trèsind Studio, with 3 Michelin stars, presents a masterful interpretation of Indian flavors and a stunning rooftop setting. Another highlight is the Smoked Room, an inventive and immersive establishment led by Chef Dani García. Palm Jumeirah is also home to Palm West Beach, featuring high-end hotels, relaxed beach bars, and casual waterside restaurants. It’s a perfect place to have a leisurely break between the show’s packed program. 

Marina Dubai is another dining hotspot. Here, you’ll find major international brands, such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, Baskin-Robbins, and Tim Hortons, alongside some of the UAE’s coolest casual restaurants like Eggspectation, Catch22, Awani, Eataly, and more. JBR is a scenic boardwalk, overlooking the gorgeous sandy beach and the Dubai Eye.

What to see in Dubai

A multimillion megalopolis, Dubai offers something for anyone. Countless high-rises dot the city’s futuristic streets. It’s also a destination, synonymous with a luxurious lifestyle, where the sky is the limit for experiences you can have. 

City lovers will have a blast exploring an impressive local skyline, including the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building) and the Ain Dubai (the world’s tallest observation wheel). Relax at Aura Skypool, or the world’s highest 360° infinity pool. Breaking world records is Dubai’s specialty. See the city from above by visiting “At the Top,” a mesmerizing observation platform on the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa. Another mind-boggling viewpoint is the 150-meter-high Dubai Frame. The high-tech, torus-shaped Museum of the Future is a must for an immersive, innovation-focused exhibition.

For a more traditional and historic ambiance, visit the Al Fahidi Historic District. It’s a preserved area in the Bur Dubai district, with narrow lanes, old mosques, covered markets, and street food. Stop by Arabian Tea House for authentic Emirati food and tea. 

Dubai is also ideal for beach leisure. The Persian Gulf stretches the length of the city, offering amazing swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities. JBR Beach is the most relaxed and family-friendly stretch, set among the vibrant Marina Dubai neighborhood. It is surrounded by a lively promenade that features many shopping and dining options. Kite Beach is ideal for kitesurfing lovers. The exclusive Palm West Beach by Dubai Retail will ideally work for beach club relaxation. 

Another great advantage of Dubai for DIBS participants is the ease of escaping to the gorgeous Arabian outdoors. Experience the desert safari, often accompanied by a falconry showcase, traditional fireside dinner, and sandboarding. Mushrif National Park is a gift that keeps on giving for the birdwatching enthusiasts. For a more adventurous day trip, hire yourself a private 4WD and have a blast riding up and down the endless dunes. 

Admission & Tickets

The ticket prices for DIBS 2026 haven’t been announced yet. In 2025, the one-day admissions started from 40-55 AED (10-15 USD). 

The show offers free entry to trade professionals, boat owners, captains, divers, and accredited media. Registration and approval are required. 

Parking & Transportation

There’s no parking available at Dubai Harbour during the show. Visitors are recommended to park at Skydive Dubai. Free RTA Water Taxi or Shuttle Bus are then provided to reach the Dubai Harbour. 

Additional free bus shuttles will be organized from Al Fardan Exchange metro station and Mina Seyahi Tram Station. You can also leave your car at Nakheel Monorail Parking and use another free bus shuttle from there. 

Dubai is quite a congested city, so checking traffic before hitting the road is never a bad idea. Arriving by taxi (all major ride-hailing apps are available in Dubai) is the most comfortable way. 

Where to stay during DIBS

It’s best to stay around the Dubai Harbour for the most stress-free experience visiting the Dubai International Boat Show. As the event’s venue is in one of the city’s most popular areas, you’ve got a great choice of hotels for all budgets. Then, Dubai Harbour stands next to some of the city’s most exclusive accommodations, allowing you to walk into the show without any commute.

W Dubai – Mina Seyahi is the closest five-star hotel to the Dubai Harbour. It’s a sophisticated adults-only resort, featuring window views of the marina, a gorgeous rooftop infinity pool, a large spa, and Asian fine dining. Opened in 2025, Ciel Dubai Marina is the world’s tallest hotel. It allows you to observe DIBS superyachts from your room window. A truly exceptional service awaits you at Atlantis The Royal Dubai, in Palm Jumeirah, considered one of the world’s best ultra-luxurious accommodations.