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Beirut Boat Show 2011: Beirut's Greatest-Ever Boat Show Edition

Aoun: "Lebanon is still at the forefront of the region's maritime industry, and this boat show is designed to put wind in the sails and sales of the maritime sector."

Beirut, May 12, 2011: The International Fairs & Promotions (IFP) Group announced the launching of the 7^th edition of Beirut Boat, the International Boat & Super Yacht Show, at a press conference held on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, at the Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel - Beirut, in the presence of local and regional media and maritime industry representatives. This region's premier boating event is jointly organized by IFP, the Middle East's leading trade fair organizer, and Messe Düsseldorf, the world's largest boat and water trade fairs. Beirut Boat 2011 opens its doors from May 18 to May 22, from 5 to 10 pm at La Marina Joseph Khoury - Dbayeh.

Highlighting the current situation of the maritime industry in the region, and the potential that characterizes Lebanon at this level, the CEO of IFP, Mr. Albert Aoun, stated "Lebanon remains the main regional destination for yacht and boat companies as well as international companies involved in leisure and water sports, seeking investment opportunities in the Middle East's emerging markets. After local boat and yacht sales registered a 40% increase in 2010, a similar momentum was observed this year with figures indicating a rise of 15% percent in the first quarter of 2011. Lebanon, thus, remains the strongest market in the region, rising above the global financial crisis and the instabilities witnessed in the Arab world".

"We are eagerly looking forward to this exceptional event, highly recognized in Lebanon and all across the Middle East. After hosting 26,000 visitors in 2010, we are expecting this year more than 40,000 visitors at Beirut Boat, especially since the show features leading international names in the manufacture of yachts and boats, and water sports equipment. These companies are keen to be present in Beirut Boat 2011, which hosts more than 130 exhibitors from Germany, Italy, Turkey and other European countries in addition to local and regional companies. This year's event showcases 120 yachts and boats of internationally renowned designs and brands, which confer an exceptional added value upon the show. Beirut Boat remains an open platform to grasp business opportunities and seal deals between international and all major Lebanese and regional companies participating in this event" added the CEO of IFP.

The growing success witnessed by Beirut Boat reflects the importance of launching development projects for marinas and waterfront facilities in Lebanon, given their great touristic and economic value. Marinas in Lebanon are completely filled; as a matter of fact, many Arab boat and yacht owners favor Lebanon due to its geographical location on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and its low mooring fees compared to those of Europe. "The Lebanese government should seize this opportunity and invest in this promising sector" added Mr. Aoun.

On behalf Sama Beirut, the real estate development project and platinum sponsor of Beirut Boat 2011, the Director of Prime Consult, Mr. Massaad Fares, said: "we are proud to pose as the platinum sponsors of the 2011 Boat Show, and collaborate on such a grand-scale event. Being present at the Boat Show is integral for us, in order to reach out to the Lebanese population and share with them a project that will bring them pride... Sama Beirut, together with IFP, have joined forces to ensure that the Boat Show this year remains an unparalleled event".

The 7^th edition of Beirut Boat confirms the position of Beirut as a capital of luxury and leisure in the region, especially with the expected arrival of Gulf visitors and tourists of all nationalities. The Beirut Boat Show is scheduled for five days; an event simultaneously buzzing with investment opportunities and leisure. Exhibitors will astound visitors, amateurs and buyers alike, by featuring an enhanced line-up of activities, magnificent display of boats, yachts, water activities, equipments, and accessories. Concurrent entertainment shows, such as live music bands among other forms of leisure, are aimed at adding a sense of fun to the event, which is meant to serve as the best opening showcase for Lebanon's summer tourist season.

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About IFP Group
IFP Group is the Middle East's leading trade fair organizer, boasting over 30 years experience in which it has organized over 400 trade fairs and conferences. The company has established a network of relations with more than 35 countries and hundreds of international companies in various economic sectors. Given the company's esteemed reputation and renowned credit, this network has developed and grown over the years.

About Messe Düsseldorf Group
Organizers of the world's largest boat and water trade fairs, the Messe Düsseldorf Group annual program includes 40 international fairs, among which 23 are the most important in their fields. The Group joined efforts with IFP to offer Lebanese and Arab visitors an unforgettable experience in maritime luxury through the Beirut Boat Show 2011.

© Press Release 2011