Startup Zone to debut at Dubai Boat Show 2025
Yachting Ventures, a media and events platform for startups and emerging technology in the leisure marine industry, is launching an Innovation Zone for startups at the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS) 2025. Scheduled to take place from 19-23 February 2025 at Dubai Harbour, the event will allow startups to present their technologies and solutions to an anticipated audience of over 30,000 visitors.
DIBS, now in its 31st edition, is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre. The annual event brings together maritime enthusiasts through an exhibition of marine technology, luxury yachts and hospitality experiences.
The UAE’s startup ecosystem is experiencing a period of ongoing growth, with over 5,600 registered companies recorded by mid-2024.
“Having spent more time in the UAE recently, it’s clear that the region is fast becoming a global hub for the yachting industry,” says Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures. “Startups will play a crucial role in shaping its future, and by launching the Startup Zone, we aim to connect early-stage companies with investors, industry leaders, and decision-makers who can help the startups we support scale in the UAE and broader Middle East region.“
The Startup Zone aims to provide startups with a relatively cost-efficient entry to the UAE market, leveraging marketing campaigns and content facilitated by Yachting Ventures.
Applications are open for startups interested in participating. Allocation of spaces will follow a first-come, first-served approach, and the selection process will focus on identifying startups with significant potential. Eligible applicants include companies that have operated commercially for less than five years or have an annual turnover below €1m.
Startups are increasingly in focus at major boat shows. The 2024 edition of the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) hosted a Start-up Pavilion, and Yachting Ventures held a pitching competition. Yachting Ventures and the European Boating Industry (EBI) are launching a Startup Day at boot Düsseldorf 2025 on 21 January, aimed at showcasing innovative startups in the leisure marine industry.
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