Qatar’s maritime industry received a huge boost Monday with the launch of the first-ever Mina Pre-Owned Boat Show at Old Doha Port’s Mina Corniche.

The event will run until tomorrow (May 7), bringing together marine enthusiasts, first-time buyers, and seasoned boaters eager to explore a curated selection of second-hand vessels. It is open daily from 5pm to 9pm.

According to the organisers, this boat show offers boat owners a unique opportunity to display their vessels, ranging from jet skis and fishing boats to yachts, superyachts, and traditional dhows, for free. Public entry is also free, making it accessible to a wide audience.

“We at Old Doha Port have set objectives and goals that we want to achieve, one of which is definitely enhancing the maritime experience locally, regionally and then globally.

“This pre-owned boat show is considered as the first-of-its-kind in Qatar, and the aim is to provide a safe platform for sellers and buyers, whether individuals or companies,” Old Doha Port CEO, engineer Mohammed Abdullah al-Mulla, told reporters.

He noted that the event facilitates smoother transactions by providing dedicated spaces for inspection companies and service providers. This, he pointed out, allows potential buyers to obtain initial inspection reports on the vessels, aiding in informed decision-making.

He added that stringent criteria are in place to ensure the quality of boats offered, including a requirement of at least one year of valid inspection reports and a registration year of 2007 or beyond. More than 40 marine vessels are participating in this maiden edition, highlighting the strong momentum in Qatar’s pre-owned boat market.

The show has transformed the Mina Corniche into a vibrant open-air marketplace, organisers said. It also offers on-site maintenance workshops and inspection services at competitive prices, fostering a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers.

Al-Mulla said this latest edition of the show joins other recent initiatives at Old Doha Port, including the first Qatar Boat Show and a fishing exhibition.

He said the combination of events caters to local, regional, and international markets, and provides the right infrastructure for yacht owners to safely and easily berth their vessels in Qatar.

In addition to the diverse range of boats on display, organisers noted that visitors can also enjoy a unique hospitality experience in a welcoming maritime atmosphere, overlooking Doha’s skyline and the West Bay towers. It also features music and various activities.

Organisers stressed that this boat show is poised to become a key event in Qatar’s maritime calendar, underscoring Old Doha Port's commitment to nurturing and strengthening the local industry.