Economy minister inaugurates 2014 Qatar International Boat Show

HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al-Thani inaugurated the second edition of the Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS) that is being held from 11-15 November at Mourjan Marinas in Lusail City.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the expo launch, HE the Minister of Economy and Commerce hailed the diverse participation in this event and praised the progress of the traditional industry of Qatar taking part in this expo, which brings participants from different countries in the world as well.
Essa Al Mannai, Chairman of SnowComms and founder of Al Mannai Marine, introduced the dhow and took the media on a tour of the boat. "The Qatar International Boat Show is not just a boat show held in Qatar but an event of national importance," he said. "It showcases modern Qatar and its ambitions, and QIBS has been supported by the Qatari government as well as establishing blue-chip Qatari corporate brands to stage a truly world class event. This dhow from Al Mannai Marine showcases the very best of Qatar's maritime capabilities." The show features a number of large luxury yachts on display. In addition to the luxury dhow, there will be a Gulf Craft Majesty 101 (31m in length); Amer Yachts 92 (28m long); Behnemar 90 (27.5m); Al Omar Marine 88 (27m); and Gulf Craft 88 (27m). The luxury dhow, which is currently awaiting a name following its sale to an unspecified buyer, was made in Qatar by Al Mannai Marine at the Al Khor Shipyard. Al Mannai Marine has since moved its manufacturing to Al Ruwais shipyard, as it has a much larger manufacturing capability.
In total, there will be over 75 boats on display, with brands as celebrated as Azimut, Sea Ray, Princess, Ferreti, Riva, Gulf Craft, Sunseeker, Prestige, Itama, Al Shaali Marine, San Lorenzo, Benetti, Sunreef, Esen Yachts, Ares, Lagoon, Amer Yachts, Cranchi, Everglades and more. Other exhibitors of note include Lurssen and Blohm + Voss – the two largest shipbuilders in the world; Palmer Johnson, Tan Services, Al Badi, Alfardan, Al Omar Marine, Art Marine, Concept Marine, Cranchi, Gulf Craft, Gulf Yachts, Kaldari Marine, Lingawi, QMSF, Royal Marine, Seas & Deserts, Shrao, Speed Marine, Sunseeker, YCO and many more.