The activities of the first edition of the Qatar Boat Show, which was hosted by the Old Doha Port over a period of four days from 6 to 9 November, concluded yesterday, amid a large turnout and record attendance from local and international visitors, companies and those interested in the maritime sector, in addition to the arrival of a number of Their Excellencies and Excellencies the ministers. Officials and dignitaries in the country visited the exhibition, which enhanced the success of the first session. The organizing committee stated that the exhibition attracted wide participation by about 450 local and international companies and brands from 11 countries, and 100 marine bodies, and that about 60 percent of the exhibition space was allocated to Qatari companies, which was reflected in the attendance and raised the status of this unique event, which led to a sell-out. Tickets are fully sold by the third day, with the number of visitors expected to exceed 20,000.
The exhibition represented an opportunity for participants and the public to closely inspect the participating yachts and boats, including the latest models and new and innovative designs, in addition to learning about the latest trends in the boat and yacht markets and following up on their technological developments and modern and sustainable designs within a variety of important seminars and workshops under the supervision of experts in this sector. .
On the sidelines of the exhibition activities, many agreements and deals related to maritime services and industries were concluded by companies, individuals and specialists in the maritime sector, as the exhibition contributed to the localization and strengthening of maritime industries in the country, thus enhancing economic growth and supporting tourism in the State of Qatar and the old port of Doha in particular. And put it on the map of global marine tourism by displaying the best marine and recreational innovations and attracting international companies to exchange experiences in the field.
During the activities of the Qatar Boat Show, many participating local entities reviewed the latest maritime transport projects and their importance in developing the transport sector and achieving sustainable development in the State of Qatar. The Ministry of Transport announced the completion of infrastructure work for the first phase of the water taxi project, which consists of the main water transport station in Lusail City, and two ferry stops on both the Pearl and the Corniche.
“Conductors” also organized two discussion sessions in cooperation with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The first focused on improving awareness of various types of ships in order to achieve safe navigation, while the second session discussed the reliability of autonomous surface ships and how technological developments can benefit smaller ships and boats. Entertainment, with the participation of a group of local and international speakers.
Operating the marina port
A cooperation agreement was also signed between the Qatar Free Zones Authority and QTerminals, under which the latter commits to operating the Marsa port, as well as the signing of an agreement between the Qatar Free Zones Authority and Milaha Company to establish a navigation dock for yachts and ships in the “Marina” port in Umm Al Houl Free Zone.
Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port and Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Qatar Boat Show 2024, confirmed in press statements that “the huge turnout we witnessed is the best evidence of the vibrant status of Qatari maritime culture and the country’s superior ability to host events.”
He said that the exhibition contributed to diversifying the supply to the Qatari consumer through the products and services that were presented at the exhibition, stressing the endeavor to employ all the capabilities and infrastructure available at the port to promote innovation and enhance its position and the position of the country in global marine tourism. Al-Mulla explained that the exhibition presented a series of successful maritime and entertainment celebrations, noting that this remarkable success reflects the growing position of the State of Qatar as a center for world-class events, in addition to the importance of the ancient maritime heritage of the State of Qatar and highlights the innovative practices in the country.
Al-Mulla pointed out the ambition of the organizers to make the Qatar Boat Show one of the most prominent major marine exhibitions in the yachting exhibition calendar in the region and the Middle East, as organizing the exhibition comes in line with the strategy set for the port and the trend towards sustainable development, which in turn will pave the way towards enhancing the tourist status of the State of Qatar. And supporting the marine tourism sector, by harnessing all efforts to implement plans that contribute to enhancing the port’s position as a prominent tourist landmark in the heart of Doha.
The Qatar Boat Show provided a wide opportunity for visitors to participate in various activities, including individual musical performances, as well as a series of activities and games that were organized in the restaurants and events area.
The Qatar Boat Show celebrations extended to include the Al Mina neighborhood, which included a series of competitions and aspects of traditional artistic crafts within the exhibitions of craftsmen and painters.