Bigger and Bolder Than Ever: Egypt’s first in-water and on land boat show

With a powerhouse of sponsors and partners comes the resurgence of the highly anticipated EIBS in the heart of Emaar Misr’s Marassi Marina

For the highly anticipated 6th edition, we have worked closely with Emaar Misr to host the show at the picturesque New Marassi Village Marina, making it the first exhibition to feature both in-water and on-land exhibits as part of the ongoing commitment to showcasing an exceptional range of vessels and exploring the latest innovations, while showcasing Egypt as one of the strongest.

This innovative setup allows potential buyers to thoroughly experience the boats and get a hands-on feel for their capabilities. The marina boasts a berthing capacity of 263 slips, presenting the ultimate destination for yacht owners and sailing enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and adventurous experience. With its stunning panoramic views, exceptional hospitality services, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Marassi Marina Yacht Club promises a one-of-a-kind experience. The much-awaited comeback of the Egypt International Boat Show (EIBS) is scheduled to take place from July 11-14th, right at the heart of Egypt's renowned North Coast region, poised to captivate both industry professionals and boat enthusiasts.

Early EIBS Days

The first edition of the EIBS was launched in 2007, the result of a fruitful collaboration between ArtLine, a company specialized in organizing international and local exhibitions, led by the renowned Ahmed Allam who had previously orchestrated the highly successful Formula One exhibition over the past 25 years. Partnering with Professional Publishing and Promotion (PP&P), publisher of the oldest and most prestigious English sports magazine, Sports & Fitness, as well as HE magazine, led by the prominent media personality and sports figure Amr Selim. The exhibition has enjoyed five consecutive successful editions, with participation from major global and local brands manufacturing boats and yachts. Regrettably, the 2012 edition had to be put on hold, but the organizers had been closely monitoring market trends and developments.

United in Pursuit of Success

Recently, a surge of interest has been observed, with Egyptian agents and manufacturers actively reaching out to request the re-organization of the exhibition. This enthusiasm coincides with the Egyptian state and leadership's increased focus on promoting yacht tourism and providing significant facilitations within this dynamic domain. The 6th edition of the Egypt International Boat & Yacht Show is held under the auspices of the main sponsor, the Commercial International Bank (CIB), a major banking institution with national dimensions in supporting distinguished events that contribute to the growth and development of the Egyptian state. The Egypt International Boat Show has secured the participation of several prestigious sponsors. Among them is Mercedes, which will showcase its latest models for the first time at the event. Valu Finance is also joining the lineup, presenting their new brand Ulter by Valu. Additionally, Felix Maritime, one of the largest maritime services companies in the region dedicated to advancing yacht tourism, is offering big discounts on agency fees and regular dues for crossing the Suez Canal. This discount is available to all exhibiting boat and yacht companies, as well as boat owners, from the 1st of July to 1st October 2024, for units below 300 tons. As well as partnering with French insurance giant AXA, which will provide integrated services for yacht owners and buyers. Further sponsors providing services include Dolato ice cream and the newly opened Vida Hotel, which will be offering special deals for exhibitors and visitors as well as hosting the event's glamorous after party. Not only drawing top companies and manufacturers represented in Egypt, but also prestigious international players. Notably, the exhibition has attracted the participation of Saudi Arabian maritime firms who have partnered with Fisal Haggi Navigation Services - a regional sponsor covering the vital Red Sea and Gulf markets. In addition to these high-profile global collaborations, the boat show has also showcased an impressive array of renowned brands specializing in the manufacturing of both locally-produced and internationally-sourced boats and yachts.

A Stamp of Approval

The state's support for the event is evident, with the Suez Canal Authority graciously offering a 50% discount for participating vessels passing through the canal. Not to mention the national carrier EgyptAir, a partner of the exhibition, is providing discounts for international visitors, as well as activating daily flights to Burj Al Arab Airport. The Tourism Promotion Authority is lending its support to the exhibition by inviting prominent international media and yacht show specialists from around the world to participate in the event's diverse activities. Special recognition and heartfelt appreciation are extended to Eng. Amr Abou Elsouad and Captain Sherif Monier of the Yacht Club, whose unwavering dedication and sincerity have been instrumental in realizing the success of this exhibition. These tireless efforts and commitment have been pivotal in elevating the exhibition to new heights, solidifying its position as a must-attend event for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. The coordination and collaborative spirit fostered by these key figures - from global media to specialized exhibitors. Speaking of media, the major exhibition contributors in the field are strong names such as Identity Magazine, Nile FM, Nougoum FM, Live Magazine and let's not forget the one and only He Magazine alongside Sports & Fitness being the show’s official magazine. It also worth mentioning that prominent names such as Identity Magazine, Nile FM, Nougoum FM, Live Magazine, and the renowned He Magazine have lent their influential platforms to showcase the event. Additionally, Sports & Fitness magazine has been designated as the show's official media partner. The involvement of these esteemed media entities underscores the exhibition's growing stature and its ability to captivate audiences across diverse interests and amplifying its visibility as well as solidifying its position. Through this invaluable support and guidance, the Egypt International Boat Show has managed to captivate all those who share a passion for the world of yachting and marine tourism. The indelible mark left by Eng. Abou Elsouad, Captain Sherif Monier, and the Tourism Promotion Authority underscores the collective drive to pave and whom without, EIBS simply could not be.

Cementing a Premiere Status

The Egypt International Boat Show has piqued the public’s interest into making it a must-attend event for anyone interested or invested in the rapidly growing marine tourism and nautical industry. Among the notable attendees is Islam Farahat of Islam Farahat Innovations (IFI), who will be presenting awards to recognize and honor those who have left an indelible mark on the industry. These accolades will be crafted from intricate, hand-made wooden pieces bearing the distinctive IFI design. Renowned architectural connoisseur Mohamed Talaat of MTA is also set to make an appearance and he and his highly skilled team will be leaving their imprint on the event by designing the VIP lounges to the highest standards. This effort encompasses every aspect - from ambiance and general design to color schemes, materials, and furnishings. The presence of such esteemed individuals and their contributions further reinforces the Egypt International Boat Show's reputation as a premier destination for industry professionals, nautical enthusiasts, and design aficionados alike.

Beyond the Bottom Line

The organizers have received valuable offers to host the seventh edition after the successful completion of the sixth edition. They are also considering thoroughly studying some proposals outside of Egypt. The goal is to position Egypt as a strong player in the global system of yacht tourism and exhibitions. Today, Egypt is undergoing an optimistic recovery, with the government and private sector working together to accelerate and encourage the country's return as a global destination for water sports, and yachting tourism. With over 2,000 kilometers of coastline across the Mediterranean and Red Seas, 23 fully developed tourist ports, hundreds of unmatched diving spots, and recently adopted special regulations (such as a 3-month online visa for foreign yachts, requiring only 30 minutes of processing), Egypt is well-equipped to become a global hotspot for yacht and marine tourism. Backed by an impressive lineup of sponsors and the full support of the Egyptian government, facilities, natural beauty, and a renewed focus on promoting yachting and marine tourism. The country is well-positioned to solidify its status as a global hub for this industry and potentially expanding the exhibition beyond Egypt's borders further underscores the country's growing prominence in the world of luxury maritime experiences.

A word from EIBS 2024 sponsors

The Commercial International Bank’s Contribution to EIBS

Commercial International Bank (CIB) is pleased to announce that it will sponsor the 6th edition of Egypt’s International Boat Show (EIBS) from July 11-14 at Marassi Marina, North Coast, Egypt. This sponsorship underscores CIB’s commitment towards supporting international events that spotlight Egypt as a touristic destination for yacht tourism. The bank is keen on supporting the tourism sector as it positively contributes towards the country’s economic growth. CIB's involvement in this prestigious event is a testament to its dedication to fostering economic development and enhancing Egypt’s global image as a prime location for luxury yacht tourism.

The event serves as a platform that showcases the latest innovations and technology within the maritime industry, placing Egyptian yacht exhibitors on the international map and underlining Egypt’s role as a hub for yacht tourism within the region. By sponsoring the EIBS, CIB aims to promote the advancements and capabilities of the Egyptian maritime industry, highlighting the nation's potential to become a leading player in the global yacht market. The show will feature cutting-edge designs and technologies, attracting industry leaders, enthusiasts, and potential investors from around the world.

Furthermore, CIB's sponsorship aligns with its broader strategic goals of contributing to sectors that drive economic growth and development. The tourism sector, particularly yacht tourism, offers significant potential for revenue generation and job creation. By supporting events like the EIBS, CIB is investing in the future of Egypt’s economy, ensuring that it remains competitive and attractive to international visitors. The bank's commitment to this cause reflects its understanding of the importance of tourism in economic diversification and resilience. The EIBS not only enhances Egypt's visibility on the world stage but also fosters international collaborations and partnerships that can lead to sustainable growth in the tourism and maritime industries.

The Suez Canal: A New Window to Encourage Yacht Tourism in The Region

A solid start through which Egypt seeks to be perfectly positioned on the global map of yacht tourism...

From Egypt International Boat Show in New Alamein, the latest fourth-generation city and a promising tourist destination, the Egyptian strategy to encourage yacht tourism is taking shape through the presence and concerted efforts of all relevant national authorities and institutions to transform Egypt into a global hub for yacht tourism.

Through its participation this year in Egypt International Boat Show, the Suez Canal showcases its ongoing and supportive efforts to promote yacht tourism in Egypt, to provide, through its experience, a promising model for openness to yacht tourism activity and the provision of advanced services in accordance with the latest international standards.

In this sense, and based on its distinguished location, advanced services, and an ambitious vision for development and modernization, the Suez Canal Authority has embarked on implementing an integrated strategy to encourage yacht tourism in the region by taking several parallel steps, the most notable of which are: o Developing, modernizing, and increasing the efficiency of the SCA yacht marinas so that they can accommodate all types of yachts of various tonnages and sizes, as the Suez Canal Authority owns three centers for receiving and docking tourist yachts in the three Canal Cities, including:

• Portsaid Yachts Marina, in the northern sector of the Canal
• Ismailia Yachts Marina, overlooking Al-Timsah Lake
• Port Tawfik Yachts Marina, in the southern sector of the Canal

SCA has succeeded in completing the development of the Suez Canal Yachts Marina in Ismailia, allowing it to accommodate more than 100 yachts, as well as acting as the first model marina for yacht tourism in Egypt to provide tourism and entertainment services along with providing pivotal marine services such as bunkering, and yacht maintenance, in addition to other essential services.

The Suez Canal Authority has come a long way toward the localization of the yachting industry in Egypt through the establishment of Egypt-Yacht Company in partnership with the South Red Sea Shipyard Company. Such a step comes within the frame of the directives of H.E. Mr. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of Egypt, to localize marine industries and encourage the engagement of the private sector in development efforts and providing direct and indirect job opportunities, and other positive impacts that are reflected in yacht tourism activity in general, which is being highlighted by the participation of the yacht “Erada” in Egypt International Boat Show in the North Coast to showcase the capabilities of the advanced Egyptian yachting industry.

Setting Sail for Adventure on the Enchanting Mediterranean

Dear Esteemed Readers and Fellow Seafaring Enthusiasts,

On behalf of the Egyptian Tourism Authority, I warmly welcome you to this year's prestigious showcase of Egypt's maritime heritage: the Egypt International Boat Show. This event celebrates our enduring connection to the sea and unveils the finest offerings for nautical exploration along the captivating Mediterranean Sea and North Coast.

Egypt's love affair with the sea stretches back millennia, from bustling ancient port cities to the modern yachting scene. Today, we pay homage to this legacy by presenting a remarkable display of luxurious yachts, cutting-edge sailboats, and innovative marine equipment. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a curious first-timer, the show offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the latest boating technology, witness the craftsmanship of local and international builders, and discover the vast possibilities for your next unforgettable maritime adventure on Egypt's North Coast.

The Egypt International Boat Show transcends mere vessels. It serves as a gateway to exploring the unparalleled beauty of the Mediterranean. Imagine yourself setting sail on turquoise waters, the gentle breeze carrying you past pristine beaches and charming coastal towns. Picture yourself snorkeling or diving in crystal-clear coves, surrounded by a vibrant underwater world teeming with life.

The Egyptian Tourism Authority is actively dedicated to developing a thriving nautical tourism sector along the North Coast. Egypt is investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure, creating dedicated marina facilities, and developing exciting new itineraries catering to all experience levels. Our vision is to solidify Egypt as a premier destination for sailing enthusiasts, diving aficionados, and anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable experience on the captivating Mediterranean Sea.

This commitment extends beyond tourism. We are steadfastly implementing responsible tourism practices to protect the delicate ecosystems and vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. By working together, we can ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at the wonders of Egypt's waters.

The Egypt International Boat Show is more than just boats; it's about igniting your spirit of adventure, embarking on unforgettable journeys, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. We invite you to step aboard, explore the possibilities, and discover why the North Coast and the Mediterranean Sea are the perfect destinations for your next nautical adventure.

I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to our industry partners, the event organizers, and the team behind Marassi for their contributions to the North Coast's nautical tourism development, and especially Emaar for creating the Marassi magic!

 “Luxurious Cars and Nautical Elegance: Mercedes-Benz at the 6^th Edition of Egypt’s International Boat Show”

As the sun-kissed waves of the Mediterranean lap against the shores of the north coast, a unique synergy emerges—one that marries the elegance of luxury cars with the allure of nautical splendor. Mercedes-Benz Egypt is proud to announce its sponsorship for the renowned Egypt International Boat Show, an event that celebrates maritime excellence, whilst showcasing Egypt’s captivating landscape and touristic appeal at the scenic Marassi Marina.

Setting Sail with Style: Showcasing Our Latest Models

At the heart of this collaboration lies our commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and sophistication. During the Boat Show, we will be displaying two of our latest automotive masterpieces—the sleek and sporty Mercedes-AMG SL55 4MATIC+ and the powerful icon, the G63 Grand Edition. These dream cars epitomize opulence, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with timeless design. Expect to witness automotive artistry at its finest as our models take center stage against the backdrop of gleaming yachts and azure waters, catering to the elite yachting community.

Navigating Purpose

Beyond the automotive sponsorship, glitz and glamour, there is a deeper purpose. Egypt, with its captivating landscapes, beckons travelers from across the globe. By aligning with the boat show, we emphasize the potential beyond the rich history.

Anchoring Values

In summary, our collaboration with the Egypt International Boat Show transcends mere sponsorship—it’s a voyage of shared values, where luxury cars and maritime elegance converge. As the sun sets over the beautiful Marassi Marina, our models will stand as symbols of aspiration, elegance, and a commitment to Egypt’s bright future.

Valu Sets Sail at the 2024 Boat Show: Financing Your Dream Boat through Ulter

Ulter prides itself on having the highest credit limit in the country. It offers flexible repayment plans spanning up to 60 months with no down payment, subject to the financed amount.

Valu, MENA's leading financial technology powerhouse, is excited to set anchor at this year's Boat Show. As the region's premier boating and yachting event, the show provides the perfect platform for Valu to showcase its innovative financial solutions, particularly its new high-value financing program, Ulter, designed to empower customers to navigate towards their dream vessel.

Walid Hassouna, Valu's CEO, commented: “We are thrilled to participate at the Boat Show event this year. The Boat Show attracts a large audience of boating enthusiasts, and industry players, offering Valu the opportunity to directly engage with them and it will also garner great exposure for newest product, Ulter”.

He added: "We recognize the allure of owning a boat and the freedom it represents. Our participation at the Boat Show reflects our dedication to providing customized financial solutions that make luxury shopping a reality for more people and aligns with our strategic expansion into various sectors, including leisure and marine financing”.

Ulter is Valu's tailored financing solution designed specifically for high-value purchases like boats. The program offers several benefits to customers, including competitive rates and flexible repayment terms that cater to individual financial needs. Valu's streamlined application process ensures instant approvals, allowing customers to secure financing and embark on their boating adventures sooner.

Ulter, a revolutionary payment program enabling customers to make sizable purchases in the realm of luxury product acquisitions across luxury goods, furniture, home finishing, travel, automotive, and marine transport, along with more lifestyle-enabling products and services. Ulter prides itself on having the highest credit limit in the country, surpassing its peers by multiple folds. It offers flexible repayment plans spanning up to 60 months with no down payment, subject to the financed amount, providing customers unparalleled financial convenience and peace of mind.

Under its product universe, Valu pioneered Buy-Now, Pay-Later (BNPL) solutions in the MENA region through U, providing customizable financing plans for up to 60 months across more than 6,500 points of sale and over 2,000 websites and apps – covering a diverse array of categories, including home appliances, electronics, home finishing, furniture, residential solar solutions, healthcare, education, travel, and fashion, among others. Valu also offers investment products, an instant cash redemption program, savings solutions, and a high-value financing program to facilitate the purchase of big-ticket items in the luxury space and e-gift cards through the AZ Valu fund and EFG Hermes ONE, Sha2labaz, Akeed, Ulter and Flip, respectively. In addition, Valu offers business-to-business solutions through Valu Business. Valu had recently introduced its prepaid card and credit card in collaboration with Visa.

Felix Maritime

Over the generations, this passion for ships and the sea has been passed down. My family has been involved in the maritime industry since the 1920s. As a Port Said native, the sea and the Suez Canal have always been an integral part of our family’s identity.

As the founder of Felix Maritime, I am proud to be a part of this journey as the Egypt International Boat Show’s maritime partner. This show can help bring greater international attention to the promising potential of Egypt's Mediterranean offerings, from facilities to services and more, making this area appealing for yacht owners and enthusiasts.

We established the first Felix Maritime branch in Port Said back in 1983, and over the years, we have grown to have more than 8 branches across Egypt’s ports and marinas, as well as an international presence in strategically located offices. Our goal has always been to combine local expertise with a global vision, ensuring that we can cater to the needs of our clients worldwide and make their journeys hassle-free.

Over the years, we’ve facilitated the arrival of world-class yachts like MY/AZZAM, which held the title of the world's largest yacht in 2013, M/Y A, S/Y A, and Black Pearl, among many more superyachts to Egypt.

We served as the local agent for some impressive vessels and had the honor of boosting maritime tourism in Egypt through organizing the Mediterranean Yacht Rally in Port Said in 2006, welcoming around 80 yachts from all over the world, dubbing it the biggest-ever convoy of sailing yachts to transit the Suez Canal. It stood out as a celebration of international camaraderie on Egypt’s open seas for three consecutive years.

Felix Maritime has become a leader in the field of maritime services in Egypt, and we are constantly striving to provide innovative solutions and facilitate the passage of foreign yachts. We acknowledge the importance of participating in EIBS’ 6th edition, which is the first on-land and in-water boat show, since it’s an incredible opportunity to showcase Egypt's growing maritime capabilities. This is a cause that is very close to my heart, as it aligns perfectly with the mission and values of our company.

We are excited to see the new and improved version of the show in its sixth edition, and participating in the Egypt International Boat Show is a meaningful full-circle moment that allows us to honor our longstanding family tradition while contributing to the growth of Egypt's promising yachting sector. 

Faisal Mansour Higgi

As the General Manager of Faisal Mansour Higgi, a leading Saudi maritime firm, I proudly highlight our growth and global engagement. Our journey has been marked by significant milestones and achievements that reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation in the maritime industry. Participating in the Egypt International Boat Show, we showcase Saudi Arabia's evolution under Vision 2030, a transformative initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and promoting sustainable development.

Our presence at this prestigious event underscores our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and our pivotal role in shaping global maritime standards. Through our participation, we aim to highlight the strides Saudi Arabia is making in the maritime sector and how we are contributing to these advancements. We're committed to advancing Saudi Arabia's reputation and industry leadership worldwide, demonstrating our capabilities and sharing our vision for the future of maritime industry.

By engaging with international stakeholders, we not only promote our firm's growth but also foster collaboration and exchange of ideas that drive the industry forward. Our involvement in events like the Egypt International Boat Show is a testament to our ambition to set new benchmarks in maritime excellence and to lead by example in the global arena.

EGYPTAIR Takes the Helm as Official Carrier of Egypt International Boat Show

Demonstrating its enduring commitment to fostering local and international sporting events and propelling inbound tourism, EGYPTAIR proudly announces its role as the official carrier of the prestigious 6th edition of the Egypt International Boat Show. This premier event sets sail at the esteemed Marassi Yacht Club, nestled within Marassi Village along the picturesque North Coast. 

As part of its ongoing dedication to enhancing domestic travel experiences, EGYPTAIR recently announced the launch of scheduled flights to El Alamein on the North Coast, commencing Thursday, July 11, 2024. This strategic move aligns perfectly with the calendar of exciting events and activities gracing the North Coast, offering seamless travel options for those seeking unforgettable summer escapes.

EGYPTAIR remains steadfastly committed to achieving unparalleled competitiveness within the global airline landscape, aiming to capture a significant share of the travel market. The company boasts an ambitious plan to modernize its fleet with a diverse range of cutting-edge, fuel-efficient aircraft. This strategic investment empowers EGYPTAIR to expand its service offerings, effectively catering to the ever-growing demand for exceptional travel experiences.

EGYPTAIR is committed to continuous development to meet the needs and requirements of its customers and provide them with an exceptional travel experience on the company's newest aircraft equipped with the latest technologies and advanced in-flight entertainment and communication systems to maintain customer loyalty. Since its inception, the company has been working to maintain the highest levels of safety and security in air traffic and strengthen the infrastructure of the civil aviation sector to play its leading and vital role in revitalizing tourism and travel, reaching the highest global levels and achieving a prestigious regional and global position, ensuring that EGYPTAIR remains one of the preferred choices among airlines for millions of passengers.

As part of EGYPTAIR's efforts to reach the largest global markets and attract more new customers around the world, the national carrier has announced that July will witness the opening of the company's latest points in the European, Middle Eastern, and African markets. 

The company will launch new routes in Zurich, Prague, and Lisbon in Europe, Fujairah in the Middle East, and Mogadishu, Djibouti, and Abidjan in Africa.

Vision and Goals for Partnering with Egypt International Boat Show

As the founder and CEO of Dolato Gelateria, I am thrilled to announce our sponsorship of the fifth edition of the Egypt International Boat Show at Marina Marassi. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Dolato’s journey, aligning our brand with an event that exemplifies luxury, elegance, and high-quality standards—values that Dolato Gelateria holds dear. The Egypt International Boat Show celebrates lifestyle, innovation, and the finer things in life, bringing together enthusiasts and connoisseurs who appreciate premium experiences. This year, Dolato Gelateria is honored to join this esteemed event, integrating our brand with an audience that shares our passion for excellence and sophistication.

Our decision to partner with the Egypt International Boat Show stems from several strategic goals and a clear vision for Dolato Gelateria’s future. We aim to enhance our brand visibility among a discerning clientele. The attendees of the show seek quality and exclusivity, much like Dolato’s customers. By positioning our brand in this prestigious setting, we reach out to our existing customer base and attract new patrons who value the unique and premium gelato experience that Dolato offers. Marina Marassi, known for its upscale environment and vibrant community, provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing our brand and products. The synergy between the ambiance of Marina Marassi and the luxurious offerings of the boat show creates an ideal platform for Dolato to shine.

Our participation is also a chance to build meaningful relationships with other luxury brands and stakeholders. The boat show attracts high-end businesses and industry leaders, creating fertile ground for networking and collaborations. Dolato Gelateria aims to establish strategic partnerships that can drive future growth and open new avenues for our brand. Furthermore, our involvement reflects our commitment to supporting and promoting events that enhance Egypt's cultural and economic landscape. As a homegrown brand, we take pride in contributing to the country’s dynamic and diverse business ecosystem. In conclusion, our sponsorship of the Egypt International Boat Show represents a strategic move to elevate Dolato Gelateria’s brand presence, connect with a premium audience, and forge valuable partnerships.