The International Council of Marine Industry Associations said its next World Marina Conference will be held at Mina Rashid in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event, themed “Marinas Empowering Tourism and Economies,” is scheduled for Oct. 13-15, according to an ICOMIA statement.

“The venue selection of ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2020 sends a powerful message toward the use of existing resources,” said Udo Kleinitz, ICOMIA secretary general. “Located in a basin formerly used in Dubai’s commercial port, Mina Rashid Marina has been repurposed to offer moorings and open access to recreational facilities and restaurants, thus addressing relevant aspects in public acceptance of boating and sustainability.”

Kleinitz said the conference will focus on regulatory frameworks and barriers, best investment practices, changing the public perception of a marina and new technologies, as well as climate change and environmental sustainability.

“We’re confident that Mina Rashid will be the ideal venue to host the biggest names in the international marinas sector,” said Mohammed Al Mannaei, CEO of P&O Marinas, in the statement. “By bringing the world’s recreational boat industry leaders and companies together in Dubai, we believe ICOMIA World Marina Conference 2020 will immensely benefit the UAE’s domestic marine sector. The event coincides with the start of Expo 2020 and this will prove to be an excellent attraction for leisure yacht enthusiasts from around the world.”