Abu Dhabi brings the maritime world together once again with the 2025 International Boat Show, an event that blends technology, luxury, sustainability, and interactive experiences in one vibrant showcase. This year’s edition goes beyond displaying boats; it offers visitors a look into the future of marine mobility, entrepreneurship, and high-end leisure that appeals strongly to male travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts across the Gulf.
The pavilion delivered an immersive and playful journey, introducing guests to the city’s advanced public marine transport through a digital water-taxi racing game inspired by Abu Dhabi’s waterways. The experience highlighted how marine routes are becoming a core part of the city’s sustainable mobility plans. Alongside the interactive game, visitors explored cutting-edge floating facilities designed to elevate waterfront access and improve day-to-day life in the city.
Among the show’s highlights was “Marsadna,” a new assessment tool that helps marine institutions measure and advance their ESG performance through clear development pathways. Guests also interacted with a massive digital screen showcasing Abu Dhabi’s maritime safety maps, promoting awareness of compliance and safe sailing practices. These innovations reflect the emirate’s commitment to building a greener and more secure marine future.
The Abu Dhabi Maritime Centre hosted a series of talks and presentations led by regional and global experts. Topics included marine technology innovation, talent development, and strategies for decarbonizing the sector. These discussions gave visitors meaningful insights into how technology is reshaping boating culture, marine sports, and waterfront industries, enriching the event with a forward-looking perspective.
The Khalifa Fund showcased seven innovative Emirati startups ranging from yacht-service platforms to performance apparel and specialty cafés. The initiative opened new doors for founders by giving them direct visibility among international brands and investors attending the show. For visitors, these projects demonstrated how local creativity and ambition are driving the UAE’s growing presence in marine-related industries.
Nirvana made a strong impact by unveiling the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air, the first luxury electric boat of its kind, merging elite automotive design with eco-friendly marine engineering. The company also introduced an exclusive membership program granting access to a 42-yacht fleet. In a celebrated moment for women in marine sports, a partnership was signed with Alya Abdulsalam, the first Emirati woman to compete in global Formula boat racing. Additionally, Abu Dhabi Ports Group announced a new agreement to lease berths at Saadiyat Marina, enhancing the city’s position as a premium waterfront destination.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.