The Qatar Boat Show returns to Old Doha Port from 4 to 7 November 2026 for its third edition, opening the Arabian Gulf's boat show season with a growing line-up of international yacht builders, marine brands and industry professionals. Held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the event has rapidly established itself as one of the region's most commercially effective maritime platforms, connecting global brands with yacht owners, investors and high-net-worth buyers across the GCC.
Several leading names have already confirmed their participation in the 2026 edition, including Sunreef Yachts, Gulf Craft, Elite Yachts representing Azimut, Milaha, Romeo Marine, Fulk Yachts, Jenan Marine and Revamp Marine Equipment Doha, with further exhibitors and partners set to be announced soon.
The show's second edition in 2025 demonstrated significant momentum, welcoming more than 27,000 visitors from 105 countries and showcasing 65 boats and watercraft valued at QR880 million, approximately USD $241 million. Exhibitor participation increased by 25 per cent compared to the inaugural edition, underlining growing confidence from both regional and international marine brands.
For exhibitors, the value extends well beyond visitor numbers. In 2025, 95.6 per cent of trade visitors stated that exhibitors were relevant to their business, while 72 per cent of exhibitors generated between 11 and 20 qualified leads during the four-day event. Additionally, 79 per cent of exhibitors expected sales to close within 45 days of the show, and nearly half reported establishing new business relationships during the event.
The calibre of the audience further strengthens the show's commercial appeal. The previous edition welcomed approximately 4,600 VIP guests, providing exhibitors with direct access to yacht owners, prospective buyers, investors and senior decision-makers from across the maritime sector. The Qatar Boat Show's timing at the opening of the Gulf's yachting season positions it as a strategic entry point for international brands seeking access to the Arabian Gulf market.
Attractive exhibitor packages, marina services and berth solutions combine with access to a highly targeted audience, enabling brands to maximise visibility and business potential within a premium event environment. This combination of commercial value and market access continues to strengthen the show's appeal among leading regional and international marine companies.
"Qatar Boat Show was created to give international and regional brands a meaningful route into the Gulf market," says Eng. Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port and chairman of the Qatar Boat Show Organizing Committee. "As we prepare for the third edition, our focus is on the things exhibitors value most: access to the right audience, practical support throughout their participation and the opportunity to build relationships that continue well beyond the four days of the show. Old Doha Port provides the setting, infrastructure and connectivity to make those conversations happen."
At the centre of the experience is Old Doha Port, a destination that embodies Qatar's maritime heritage while offering world-class marine infrastructure. The port features a 450-berth marina, dedicated superyacht facilities, a 24-hour cruise terminal and the nation's largest slipway. The port's infrastructure supports the full spectrum of yachting activity, from dayboats to superyachts, while its waterfront location creates a distinctive backdrop for the show's wider programme.
Under this year's theme, "Crafting Wonderful", the Qatar Boat Show celebrates the intersection of marine craftsmanship, innovation, luxury and culture. Visitors can step on board world-class vessels, explore the marina and experience waterfront dining and hospitality alongside a carefully curated programme of cultural experiences, live entertainment, fireworks and drone shows.
This combination of marine showcase and destination experience creates an immersive event that appeals to both industry professionals and luxury lifestyle audiences. The integration of entertainment and hospitality elements transforms the show from a purely commercial platform into a broader cultural moment within Qatar's social calendar, attracting visitors who might not traditionally attend boat shows while maintaining the commercial focus that exhibitors value.
The show's growth reflects Qatar's expanding role as a centre for maritime tourism and luxury yachting in the Arabian Gulf. As the region's yachting infrastructure develops and high-net-worth populations grow, events like Qatar Boat Show provide critical platforms for international brands to establish a presence and build relationships in emerging markets.
For more information about the event, visit the Qatar Boat Show website or contact the organising committee at Old Doha Port.
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