The fifth edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) opened on March 13 with over 70 exhibitors from the sector's prominent brands and names taking part in the five-day event.

Organized by Al Mannai Plus Events, the event was inaugurated by Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Economy and Commerce, and was attended by VIPs and media representatives.

Held at the Porto Arabia Marina at the Pearl Island – Qatar, the boat show will run from March 13 to 17.

For the fifth consecutive year, QIBS has become a principal annual fixture on the sector’s calendar of specialised regional and international exhibitions, which underlines the remarkable success it has achieved over this short period of time and its ability to attract the industry’s key players.

QIBS provides a global platform for major brands to showcase their latest products to potential customers from Qatar, the Middle East and around the world.

In order to offer a unique experience to participating companies and visitor, QIBS will be hosting various interesting activities such as marine tours, prizes, water activities, marine races and relevant seminars, etc.

Speaking on the occasion, Khalid Issa Al Mannai, chairman of Al MannaiPlus Events, said: "We are pleased to cultivate today the fruit of our efforts over the months we have spent in preparation for this moment. We are honoured with the visit of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Economy and Commerce, who officially opened the fifth edition of Qatar International Boat Show, the Middle East's most important event in the maritime sector.”

“Since inception in 2013, QIBS has strived to be an ideal maritime networking platform. In the past few years, we have been able to make the exhibition a unique destination that attracts companies and individuals involved in the maritime field. Thanks to the presence of local and international companies looking to expand their investments in this sector and the increasing demand for yachts, boats and related industries, the exhibition has become a key business driver for the sector boosting regional marine industry,” he added.

Fadi Al Yousfi, Qatar International Boat Show 2018 Director, said: "Today we celebrate the participation of more than 70 exhibitors and participants to the fifth edition of the exhibition. The expo is a reflection of our commitment of being one of the premier boat and sporting shows in the region to help bolster Qatar’s burgeoning marine and seafaring industry, we will continue to perform as a medium for generating business for our exhibitors and attending delegates.” - TradeArabia News Service