Yachting Ventures will return to the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) spearheading the Innovation Zone, where 15 startups will showcase their products and platforms and connect with the industry.
Now in its third year at ADIBS, the Innovation Zone has become a key feature of the show, highlighting the importance of early-stage innovation across boating and yachting.
Yachting Ventures helps amplify startup companies at several boat shows and key marine events including Cannes Yachting Festival and Metstrade with a startup competition and new superyacht startup hub.
The 2025 edition of the Innovation Zone at Abu Dhabi International Boat Show will feature startups operating in sectors including clean tech, digital platforms, AI for marine, watersports, marina infrastructure and other technologies influencing the future of the marine industry.
ADIBS, organised by ADNEC Group, is taking place from 20–23 November 2025 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Marine industry growth in Middle East
The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show attracted more than 42,000+ visitors in 2024, including industry leaders, investors and public sector representatives, making it an ideal entry point for startups looking to gain visibility and access new markets in the Middle East.
Abu Dhabi continues to grow as a key destination for marine innovation, supported by targeted investment programmes and a pro-business environment for startups. Home to programmes such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Office Innovation Programme, founders can access grants, funding incentives and advisory support. Meanwhile, accelerators such as Hub71 and partnerships across both public and private sectors make relocation and expansion into the UAE increasingly accessible for global startups.
The emirate’s push for sustainable development has created strong demand for marine solutions that reduce environmental impact. Projects trialling low-emissions vessels, electric seagliders and the development of marine conservation zones are just some examples of Abu Dhabi’s focus on innovation and future-proofing the marine sector.
Marine startups in Middle East
Yachting Ventures is offering emerging businesses the opportunity to showcase their solutions in a central location within the show. The exhibition package includes a branded booth, speaking opportunities on a panel, media exposure in the form of press releases and social media content, and speaking opportunities on curated panels.
To further support startups exploring growth in the UAE, Yachting Ventures will once again offer a curated programme of cultural excursions that occur ahead of the show each day, alongside the Innovation Zone.
These activities, which in previous years have included visits to Hub71, local R&D facilities and key cultural sites, are designed to provide founders with market insight, context and valuable networking opportunities.
Gabbi Richardson, founder of Yachting Ventures says: “The Middle East continues to open up new opportunities for the marine sector, and ADIBS offers startups direct access to investors, partners and decision-makers in the region. We’re excited to return with an expanded Innovation Zone that reflects the growing appetite for innovation in this part of the world.”
Andrew Cowen, co-Founder and CEO of Expedition Zero, adds: “The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show was a great example of how Yachting Ventures creates high-impact opportunities for marine startups. Our stand in the Innovation Zone attracted strong footfall and meaningful conversations with potential customers.
“We also hosted investors at the stand and took part in the speaker programme, which gave us a valuable platform to share our story. The curated visits to Hub71 and Masdar added real depth to the experience.”
Startups interested in exhibiting at the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show Innovation Zone 2025 can apply online.
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