1:28 AM Thu 27 Nov 2008 GMT
 | | 'The Emirates Boat Show International attracted more than 150 exhibitors and 200 boats on display in the water and onshore at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADIMSC).'
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| Over 150 yacht makers and distributors from around the world are participating in the Emirates Boat Show International, which was inaugurated Wednesday 26 November by Dr. Shaikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
Displayed on the backdrop of one of the Middle East's foremost marine developments, marine businesses from around the world, along with boating aficionados are visiting the event organised by Knotika Holding, a market leader in the regional leisure marine industry.
The Emirates Boat Show International will be held at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club 25-29 November 2008. This show whilst in its infancy is well positioned to provide access into the very lucrative UAE market. The show will run from 4-10pm daily, has over 120 exhibitors, 160 boats on water, 5000m2 of inside air conditioned tents and 6000m2 of outdoor space.
"Under the support of Dr. Shaikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and ADNEC, the marine industry in Abu Dhabi has flourished tremendously over the past several years, helped significantly by the emirate's powerful economy and established infrastructure," said Saeed Hareb, chairman of Knotika Holding.
"We would like to thank his H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and ADNEC for their support in making this event happen. The city is expected to welcome an influx of tourists and businesses alike throughout the show's duration," he added.
Exhibitors are displaying the latest leisure marine products, including motor yachts, jet skis, wake boarding boats and equipment, sailing dinghies and diving gear, marine accessories and electronics.
More than 20 world-renowned manufacturers are also on display at the show, including Aicon, Azimut, Bayliner, Beneteau Yachts, Cabo, Carver, Doral, Elegance, Four Winns, Gulf Craft, Hatteras, Jeanneau, Larson, Mastercraft, Maxum, Palm Marine and more.
Emirates Boat Show International in Abu Dhabi is organized by Knotika Holding, a market leader in the regional leisure marine industry and organiser of prominent boat shows in Kuwait and Bahrain.
'Abu Dhabi's first ever participation in one of the largest international boating events will be graced with some of the world's leading luxury brands, spanning a multitude of industries including automotive, development, jewellery and aviation, ' said Ahmed Al-Romaithi, Member of the Executive Committee of Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADMISC).
On the other hand, Emirates Boat Show International will be supported by influential brands in their respective businesses, keeping with the aspect of luxury and leadership. The extensive list of sponsors includes Falcon Aviation Services, Abu Dhabi's premier helicopter shuttle service, Zaya, a joint venture premium property developer with a combined portfolio in excess of US$ 15 billion, lead by the company's debut exclusive island community project - Nurai, Maserati, purveyor of luxury Italian automobiles, in addition to K.ARIA Magnificent Jewels, a UAE based and family-owned company that specializes in creating exclusive pieces of jewelry.
'This is a great opportunity for the global boating community to witness the unique business and leisure propositions that Abu Dhabi has to offer; hosting the capital's first largest ever boat show is a testament to the city's promise of luxury living and as a cultural and economic hub,' said Wael Juju, CEO of Knotika Holding.
Forbes magazine recently rated Abu Dhabi as the world's richest city. Responsible for more than 90% of the UAE's oil production, Abu Dhabi possesses the fourth largest oil reserves in the world. According to media reports, Abu Dhabi has an investment fund exceeding $800bn with more than $140bn in government and privately-funded development projects currently underway in Abu Dhabi.
More at www.emiratesboatshow.com
by Jeni Bone
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