More than 80 companies from 13 countries are participating at the inaugural Saudi International Boat Show which opened last night (October 14) at the Al Furusya Marina & Yacht Club in Jeddah.

The event will run until October 17.

VIP officials, sponsors, exhibitors and invited guests were treated to an official opening ceremony of a spectacular sights and sounds over the skyline of Jeddah during the opening ceremony.

With yachts, speedboats, sailing boats and the latest hi-tech fishing boats and marine equipments, visitors can expect three days of action-packed entertainment which will make the exhibition one of the most sought-after social events of the year, a statement said.

“With all the valuable support from all government authorities and partners, we have had a wonderful start to the first Saudi International Boat Show,” said Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers of the event.

“We look forward to welcoming many more visitors for the rest of the event.”

Countries taking part in the show include Canada, Denmark, Egypt, Kuwait, Netherlands, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK and the US.

Nasser Quttub, marine geologist from the Saudi Geological Survey and an exhibitor at the boat show, said the event marks a beginning in setting the stage for further growth and development of marine tourism.

“We need further benefit from the launch of such an exhibition and continuously develop it for the years to come,” he said.

The Diving Village, a fishing competition and diving demonstrations, as well as many exciting raffle draws with thrilling prizes, are just few of the events that are going to accompany the Boat Show.

Key events and activities taking place during the four day event include product testing, diving and equipment demonstrations by Scubapro, Beuchat, Cramerdecker and IST & UK Lights.

Free trial dives are also part of the programme daily from 8 – 10 pm at the Diving Village.

The show is open, free of charge, from 5 pm to 1 am until October 17. Children under 16 must be accompanied by adults. – TradeArabia News Service