P&O MARINAS NAMES LEISURE MARINE ASSOCIATION MENA AS THE HOST OF ICOMIA WORLD MARINAS CONFERENCE 2021

The conference will take place on 12-14 October 2021 at the Address Hotel Dubai Marina26 April 2021: The newly-formed Leisure Marine Association MENA (LMA) is set to be the new host of ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2021 (IWMC 2021). P&O Marinas played a strategic role in the formation of LMA and is also an active member of the association that was formed to protect the interests of the marine industry.The much-anticipated event is scheduled to take place on 12-14 October 2021 at the Address Hotel Dubai Marina. The conference will discuss the lessons learned during the pandemic as well as focusing on future leisure, social and economic trends and how they impact marinas. IWMC 2021 also aims to encourage the development of the local and regional traditional leisure sailing tourism industry, while ensuring the best practices in terms of sustainability are followed.John W.R. Paul, Chairman of Leisure Marine Association MENA said:” It is a proud moment for us to take up the baton from them as the host of IWMC 2021. LMA was formed after years of diligent work by marine industry professionals, who solely focused on representing and supporting the maritime industry in the UAE and the region. We are certain that through our association with IWMC and the expertise we possess, we can make a difference in the industry.”Aiding the global yachting marketIWMC 2021 will unite leaders from the industry, who will provide a comprehensive perspective of the challenges the industry has faced and other developments in the sector. Experts will also share their knowledge and insights on innovation and technology within developed and traditional yachting markets that have the potential to immensely benefit the UAE’s marine sector.Udo Kleinitz, Secretary General ICOMIA said:“The formation of LMA itself was a welcome move for the industry as associations are integral for the industry’s success. ICOMIA is delighted to see LMA now take on leadership in organising IWMC under its auspices. P&O Marinas has been instrumental in bringing IWMC to Dubai and in laying out the preparations for IWMC so far. We are mindful of the extra work required due to the covid-forced postponement of the initially planned 2020 event and thank P&O Marinas for their continued commitment. The handover of IWMC from P&O to LMA shows how the industry needs to be united to progress and grow – globally, but moreover when dealing with government bodies.”Hamza Mustafa, COO, P&O Marinas said:“This year, assessing the unstable business landscape, it is imperative for the community to engage in order to tackle the unprecedented business challenges and IWMC is a great platform to do so. Recognising LMA’s contribution to the development of the local boating and marine industry and in line with our continuous efforts to support the community, we are glad to announce that we will be transferring the hosting rights for ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2021 to LMA. We are confident that by hosting the event LMA will transform the boating industry and propel it towards sustainable growth.”The UAE has been extremely proactive in implementing a far-ranging series of preventative healthcare and hygiene protocols, which saw Dubai re-welcome tourists from the 7th of July 2020. Since then, the city has continued to welcome visitors, whilst keeping health and safety for all as the number one priority.—ENDS—For more information about this press release, please contact Stani Try at stani@icomia.org.More about ICOMIAICOMIA was formed in 1966 to bring together in one global organisation the national boating federations and other bodies involved in the recreational marine industry, and to represent them at an international level. The ICOMIA Marinas Group seeks to improve the sharing and exchange of information with respect to the development and best practice management of marinas, boat storage facilities, boating access, and associated infrastructure throughout the world. A key function of the ICOMIA Marinas Group is to support the biennial World Marinas Conference, which brings together industry experts from across the globe with an exciting and stimulating programme. Visit www.icomia.org for more informationMore about P&O MarinasP&O Marinas is a DP World company established to develop world-class locations for the mooring of yachts and the hospitality of their owners, captains, guests and the local residents.After the successful experience of Mina Rashid Marina (Dubai, UAE) where the company offers berths for some of the world’s largest yachts, P&O Marinas extended its management and operations to four marinas in Dubai.More about the Leisure Marine Association MENAThe Leisure Marine Association MENA looks after the interests of its members such as marina operators, boat builders, marine equipment suppliers, charter companies, service companies, and the like but also plays its part to make the region an enjoyable place for boating, advocate safe boating practices, create environmental awareness and provide educational opportunities for boating enthusiasts and trade professionals. A particular interest of the association is to promote the region within the international community as a yachting destination.