The Qatar Boat Show hosted its first-ever gala dinner, bringing together industry leaders for high-level discussions on the nation’s ambition to become a central player in the international yachting industry. The event, held at Old Doha Port, served as a platform for dialogue and networking, reflecting the show’s growing prestige and its role as a catalyst for collaboration in the maritime sector.
Charting the Future of Yachting
Two key panel discussions during the evening explored the strategies required to elevate the region’s maritime profile and define the future of the global yachting industry.
Becoming a Global Yachting Destination
The first panel, titled “Anchoring Growth: What It Takes for the Region to Become a Global Yachting Destination,” focused on how world-class marina infrastructure and appealing investment frameworks can establish the Gulf as a hub for luxury yachting. Speakers from Old Doha Port, the Ministry of Transport, Qatar Free Zones Authority, and Ronautica Middle East participated. They emphasised that successful public-private partnerships are central to fostering growth through integrated tourism, waterfront development, and premium marine services.
Innovation and Sustainable Growth
The second session, “Defining the Future of the Global Yachting Industry,” addressed the importance of innovation, sustainability, and supportive policies for long-term competitiveness. Representatives from leading builders Gulf Craft, Benetti, and Oceanco, alongside Doha Craft, identified sustainable marina design, environmental stewardship, smart infrastructure, and talent development as the essential pillars for creating future-ready maritime economies.
Qatar Boat Show 2025 Highlights
Eng Mohammed Abdulla al-Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port and chairman of the Qatar Boat Show 2025 Organising Committee, outlined the vision for the main event. “By bringing together industry leaders under one roof, we continue to position Qatar as a hub of innovation, investment, and sustainable growth in the yachting sector,” he said. Al-Mulla stated the gala celebrates collective achievements and sets the stage for a world-class event that reflects Qatar’s maritime heritage.
He announced that this year’s edition will host more than 85 exhibitors from 25 countries, showcasing over 65 luxury yachts. The show will also feature global premieres from renowned shipyards including Amels, Sunreef, Gulf Craft, and Al Shaali Marine. With Qatari companies representing more than half of all participants, the event underscores the nation’s expanding leadership in marine manufacturing. New cultural attractions, including the Oshar Art Gallery and an expanded Fishing Exhibition and Competition, have also been added to celebrate local heritage.
The event is being held under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani. It runs until November 8 at Old Doha Port.
