Beyond 'super': unique yacht design with Burgess
Your ultimate guide to the Qatar International Boat Show 2025
Published 02 十月 2025
The Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) launched in 2024 with an impressive debut: more than 495 leading international brands, over 100 yachts and marine vessels, and 20 world premieres. Drawing 23,500 visitors from 90 countries, the inaugural edition cemented Qatar’s place as a rising luxury yachting destination.
From 5–8 November 2025, the yachting world will once again converge on Old Doha Port to experience the latest innovations, luxury lifestyle showcases, and the most spectacular superyachts for sale in the Middle East.
Why the Qatar International Boat Show matters
Framed by the Arabian Gulf and offering 700km of coastline, Qatar is fast establishing itself as a superyacht destination. The country now boasts 1,877 berths, including 108 designed for yachts up to 160m, and has invested heavily in its maritime infrastructure as part of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
For exhibitors, the market is compelling. Qatar has the third-highest millionaire density globally – 116 millionaires per 1,000 households – alongside one of the world’s highest fleet-to-billionaire ratios. This wealth profile, combined with the country’s growing status as a luxury lifestyle hub, makes QIBS an unrivalled platform for reaching regional and international buyers.
Exclusive opportunities to view superyachts for sale
Last year at the show, Burgess presented MOONLIGHT II, the largest yacht on display. This year, our team will be attending QIBS to meet clients and discuss yachts for sale in the region. If you would like to arrange a meeting during the show, please contact our team.
What to expect at QIBS
The 2025 edition of the Qatar International Boat Show promises an even bigger stage for the world’s most prestigious marine brands. Expect to see the latest innovations in yacht design and technology, with everything from state-of-the-art tenders to eco-conscious propulsion systems.
Beyond the vessels, QIBS is also a showcase of luxury lifestyle in Qatar, with high-end brands presenting accessories, marine equipment, and exclusive services tailored to yacht ownership. For those looking to expand their networks, the show brings together industry leaders, shipbuilders, designers, and high-net-worth individuals from across the globe, offering unmatched opportunities for collaboration and investment.
Of course, the real highlight is the line-up of superyachts moored against the spectacular Old Doha Port backdrop. With yachts available for both sale and charter, QIBS is the perfect setting to experience first-hand the scale, innovation, and luxury that define the modern superyacht world.
Qatar as a luxury destination
Beyond the boat show itself, Qatar has positioned itself as one of the Middle East’s most dynamic destinations for luxury travel. With a blend of cutting-edge infrastructure, authentic culture, and a strong emphasis on maritime heritage, it appeals to both regional residents and international visitors. For yacht owners and charterers, Qatar offers a compelling balance: world-class berthing facilities and a coastline ripe for exploration, paired with a luxury lifestyle onshore that ranges from fine dining to art and architecture.
Old Doha Port – The perfect backdrop
Overlooking the calm waters of Doha, Old Doha Port has transformed into a vibrant tourism and yachting hub. Blending modern facilities with authentic maritime heritage, the port features more than 450 berths – including capacity for superyachts up to 160m – making it an ideal venue for a Qatar yacht exhibition.
Why the Middle East is becoming a yachting hub
The Middle Eastern superyacht show scene is expanding rapidly. The UAE and Saudi Arabia, in particular, have seen exceptional economic growth, driving demand for luxury assets and attracting a growing community of high-net-worth individuals.
With year-round cruising weather, the region offers both contrast and convenience. Visitors can experience high-octane events like the Saudi Arabian and Jeddah Grand Prixes, explore new marinas and yacht clubs, or set off for bucket-list destinations such as the Seychelles, Maldives, and Thailand. Closer to home, the Red Sea offers some of the world’s finest diving and marine life encounters.
How to make the most of your time at QIBS
To get the most from the Qatar International Boat Show 2025, planning ahead is key. Arrange private yacht viewings with trusted brokers, explore exhibitor showcases, and take advantage of networking opportunities with shipyards, designers, and industry leaders.
For those considering not just ownership but also chartering a superyacht in the Middle East, the show is an ideal place to learn more. Qatar itself offers sheltered cruising waters and easy access to high-end marinas, while nearby Dubai and Abu Dhabi are established hubs for luxury yachting. With their modern marinas, luxury hotels, and thriving cultural scenes, they make excellent starting points for a regional charter.
Many guests also use the show as a springboard for extended cruising further afield. After QIBS, it’s easy to set course for the Red Sea, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, or venture eastwards to the Maldives and Seychelles, two of the most sought-after charter destinations in the Indian Ocean.
Whether you’re interested in a short regional escape or a longer voyage, Burgess can help plan a bespoke itinerary that maximises your time both at the show and on the water. Get in touch today.
Heading to the Middle East this year?
Contact our Dubai office today to learn more about attending the Qatar Boat Show, arranging private yacht inspections, or planning your onward charter. Experience the very best Qatar superyachts and discover why the Middle East is fast becoming one of the world’s most exciting yachting destinations.
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