The fifth edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) will be held at the Pearl-Qatar from March 13 to 17 under the auspices of HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, it has been announced.
The five-day event will play host to boats from 15 countries and introduce the region’s boat enthusiasts to the latest technological advancements, the organisers have said in a statement.
“This year, the highly anticipated show expects to attract over 90 impressive motorboats, luxury yachts and unique dhows. These will be displayed both on land and water and be complemented by exhibitor chalets, representing many of the top names in the maritime industry, both local and international, along the marina walkway,” the statement noted.
During a press conference held recently, the organisers announced the appointment of Fadi al-Yousfi, who has more than 10 years of experience in the field of luxury yachts and international exhibitions, as the boat show director. They also announced that international manufacturers, exhibitors and international companies who specialise in the maritime industry will participate in this year’s edition of QIBS, in addition to local companies working in this domain. 
Khalid Issa al-Mannai, chairman of Al Mannai Plus Events, the organising company of the Qatar International Boat Show, said: "This year we are celebrating the fifth edition of the QIBS, which has contributed big time in supporting the tourism and exhibitions industry. This has also encouraged private sector investment in the marine industry and exhibitions held during the previous years, which have witnessed a huge number of deals worth millions of riyals in addition to attracting thousands of visitors and marine life fans from all over the globe to visit Qatar.”
Al-Yousfi noted, "We anticipate a huge turnout this year and that’s why we have taken the necessary measures such as increasing the visiting hours. Further, there will be a number of food and beverage outlets and an array of captivating side events happening on a daily basis to make this year’s exhibition a unique experience for visitors."
Loay Dalis, CEO of Al Mannai Plus Events, said: "We are facing extraordinary conditions due to the violating and unjust blockade on the State of Qatar. Nevertheless, we will prove to the world that the QIBS has been a global platform for attracting businessmen and investors in this sector.”
Abdulrahim al-Ibrahim, executive director - Commercial of The Pearl-Qatar’s master-developer, United Development Company, said: “We are delighted to host the fifth edition of Qatar International Boat Show, especially due to the fact that The Pearl is considered an iconic destination by lovers of the maritime industry.”