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Dubai Yachting Boom Drives Growth And Fuels Investment

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With world-class marinas and a dynamic yachting infrastructure, the yachting hub of Dubai attracts not only the superyacht class but an elite circle of high net worth individuals.

Dubai has developed a well-earned reputation as a premier destination for superyacht owners, maritime professionals and ultra-luxury tourism.

Within the space of a decade, the Arabian Gulf has gone through a transformation, thanks to regional governments investing millions to develop their yachting infrastructure. The U.A.E., and Dubai in particular, is at the forefront of this evolution. The city has developed a well-earned reputation as a premier destination for superyacht owners, maritime professionals and ultra-luxury tourism. The growth of the yachting industry in Dubai owes much to the expansion of state-of-the-art marinas and second-to-none yacht crew and refit facilities.

Thanks to visionary insight, strategic planning, and unwavering focus and effort, Dubai is now home to over 15 marinas and more than 3,500 berths, making it a superyacht capital in its own right. These exceptional yachting spaces include world-renowned berthing areas and marinas such as Dubai Harbour , P&O Marinas , Nakheel Marinas , Palm View Marina , Bay Marina , as well as the Bulgari Marina & Yacht Club . Dubai Harbour’s 20-million-square-foot expanse, for example, can accommodate up to 700 vessels, including superyachts up to 160 meters in length.

The city’s well-planned anchorage areas are naturally complemented by exceptional facilities that offer specialized yacht concierge services, and easy access to popular marine and land-based attractions and amenities. In combination with the mild climate, this creates an environment perfectly suited for yachting and fine living.

Dubai’s appeal has not gone unnoticed. The “U.A.E. Yachting Market Insight 2024” reports that the number of yachts visiting the U.A.E. during the 2023/2024 season rose by 12.28%. Equally significant was the fact that visiting superyachts were also bigger—11.69% larger, in fact, than those from the previous season. This trend highlights not only the growing number of yachting enthusiasts but also the increasing number of high-end vessels sailing into Dubai’s harbors.

A Comprehensive Yachting Ecosystem

The yachting industry in Dubai has also evolved to become a powerful driver for new business opportunities within and beyond the maritime sector. In recent years, the city has managed to attract key international yachting industry players to establish branches and manufacturing facilities, a move facilitated by Dubai’s progressive regulatory frameworks and strong government support.

The Dubai economy, one of the most diversified in the region, boasts an entrepreneurship ecosystem that has enabled the yachting industry to flourish. Companies involved in yacht design, construction, maintenance and brokerage, for example, have benefitted from the city’s strategic location, global reputation and business-friendly environment. The ripple effects of Dubai’s growing yachting industry have naturally extended beyond the sector.

A Haven For HNWIs

In its quest to become a leading global yachting hub, Dubai benefits from its existing international appeal and prominence, independent of its maritime attractions. The city is renowned for its expansive array of fine dining establishments , luxurious hotels and tourist attractions . It is also a multicultural city with international schools, an extraordinarily well-connected aviation hub and a prime geographic location between East and West. With a vibrant year-round calendar of cultural events and activities, Dubai is not just a great oasis to sail to but also an ideal location for extended stays and a highly desirable base for business operations.

Dubai's environment is perfectly suited for yachting and fine living.

“The marinas in Dubai not only offer state-of-the-art facilities but also serve as hubs for a range of complementary businesses, from luxury retail and hospitality, to yacht maintenance and charter services,” says Ian Harris, CEO of UK-headquartered Phoenix Yacht Management LLC, who relocated to Dubai in 2022 by taking advantage of the U.A.E’s 10-year golden visa residency scheme . Harris is seeing a thriving ecosystem develop in Dubai around superyachts and the yachting community, which has in turn spurred development of affiliated businesses and spinoffs. “It was a straightforward business decision to establish here,” he adds, “especially with the region’s increasing appeal to high net worth individuals (HNWIs) and luxury yacht owners.”

Increasing numbers of superyacht owners are beginning to register the charms and benefits of Dubai that have long been apparent to the many HNWIs and ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNWIs) who base themselves in the city. World-class facilities and infrastructure aside, Dubai is also one of the safest cities in the world. According to the Numbeo Quality of Life Index 2024, Dubai is the fourth safest city in the world, trailing Abu Dhabi, Taipei and Doha but ahead of Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. Over the years, the emirate has become a magnet for international entrepreneurs, investors and family offices, transforming the city into one of the world’s foremost hubs for private wealth management.

Opportunities Beyond The Marina

As one of the world’s largest global hubs for private wealth management, Dubai’s rise as a financial center looks set to be increasingly intertwined with its growth as a luxury yachting destination. The city’s favorable financial services infrastructure, robust regulatory framework, and flexible inheritance and succession laws have made Dubai a compelling destination for international family offices, private banks, hedge funds and asset management firms. As more superyachts make their way to Dubai each year, the opportunities for wealth advisory service providers will likely compound.

The number of HNWIs in Dubai has risen steadily in recent years, driven by a strong economy and increasing investor confidence. At the end of 2023, the city was home to over 55,000 HNWIs—a clear testament to Dubai’s standing as a hub for global wealth. A report by investment-based immigration consultants Henley & Partners titled “The UAE: A Strategic Haven for High-Net-Worth Families” revealed that the U.A.E. received a net inflow of 6,700 millionaires in 2024, noting further that this inflow was the highest of any country in the world.

This focus on attracting HNWIs from across the globe reflects the city’s broader commitment to achieving the goals of its Dubai Economic Agenda D33 initiative: to position the city as one of the world’s top four financial centers.

When it comes to the region’s wealth, it is evident that HNWIs and UHNWIs from the Middle East prefer to operate out of Dubai. The U.A.E. hosts more than 75% of the region’s family offices, of which more than half are in Dubai. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), for example, is currently home to over 300 companies managing nearly US$450 billion in private wealth. In addition, family offices operating out of Dubai can tap into US$3 trillion in private wealth located within an hour’s flight.

Cruising To Success

More than a mere maritime success story, Dubai’s vibrant yachting scene is a catalyst for economic growth. The city’s world-class infrastructure and vibrant living environment have made Dubai an irresistible draw not just for superyacht owners and yacht industry professionals but also HNWIs from across the globe.

As Dubai’s reputation as a superyacht destination grows, so too does its appeal with private wealth, entrepreneurs and global investors. At this dynamic intersection of sailing, fine living, wealth management and investment opportunity, Dubai looks poised to solidify its position as a global hub—not just for superyachts but also as a thriving nexus for HNWIs and visionary investors.

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Launched in 2006 by Platinum Yachts, Dubai is the world’s second largest private yacht, measuring 162 metres. Dubai’s incredible size is disguised by the elegant lines of her steel hull and aluminium superstructure – the work of renowned designer Andrew Winch. Her stunning interior was designed by Platinum Yachts.

The construction of this megayacht began for Prince Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei more than 10 years before the yacht’s launch. The construction, then a joint project between Blohm + Voss and Lurssen shipyards, was halted until 2001 when the hull was acquired by Platinum Yachts for His Highness Sheik Mohammed Rashid al-Maktoum. The project, previously named Platinum, Panhandle and Golden Star, was re-named Dubai.

Dubai’s luxurious interior design blends bold colours with fine fabrics and intricately detailed handmade mosaics. A spectacular staircase creates Dubai’s showpiece. Bathed in natural light from the top deck, this dramatic circular staircase features glass steps, which change colour. Dubai’s spacious decks offer a split-level owner’s deck; a large social area including the main lounge with its centrepiece red sofa; numerous VIP and guest suites, and a crew area to accommodate 115 people including crew and guest staff.

With seven decks, Dubai has a wealth of sunbathing areas; a striking mosaic swimming pool and several Jacuzzis. She can accommodate a helicopter of up to 9.5 tonnes and can carry two 10-metre long tenders.

Dubai has a displacement of 9,150 tonnes, yet can reach an impressive 26 knots at maximum speed. She has exceptional worldwide capability with a range of 8,500 miles at 25 knots, powered by four MTU diesel engines.

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• Interior Designer Platinum Yachts No profile available

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February 29, 2024

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Dubai Emerges as a World-Class Destination for Luxury Yachts

State-of-the-art marinas and services cater to superyacht owners and other elite travelers..

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Today there are 22 marinas and more than 3,600 berths for boats, including many for superyachts, megayachts, and gigayachts. To accommodate these vessels an array of modern maintenance and repair facilities has opened, along with technical support, specialty marine stores, and, notably, marina-based health and wellness centers that cater to yacht guests and crews.  

The warm weather and safe, tranquil seas here, especially from October to April, provide extraordinarily pleasurable cruising conditions, all complemented by Dubai’s land-based attractions. The city is known for its scenic coastline, luxe hotels, cultural fare, and award-winning restaurants. Cruise-in, dock-and-dine opportunities are a new trend, offering the possibility to moor for a few hours while enjoying fine dining at a resort or hotel, a spa treatment, or the amenities of a beach club. 

Luxe and well-equipped marinas abound. Among the newest and most popular are the following:  

Dubai Harbour, which opened in 2020 with space for 700 vessels, is in the heart of Dubai, with easy access to tourist attractions and encompassing cafes, shops, VIP lounges, and the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club.  

Nakheel Marinas Dubai Islands was launched in 2023 along the city’s north coast, offering easy cruising to the open sea; it can accommodate 13 superyachts at a time. 

Luxurious and picturesque P & O Marinas has a total of 1,200 wet berths and 600 dry berths and includes well-known Mina Rashid, which can host a range of pleasure craft, plus superyachts between 25 and 160 meters. 

Located on the prestigious Jumeirah Bay Island, along a promenade that resembles a Mediterranean village, Bulgari Marina & Yacht Club is a superyacht anchorage that includes berths for vessels from 10 to 40 meters as well as dock-and-dine services.

Also noteworthy are Bay Marina, Dubai’s first dedicated superyacht marina, with berths for vessels up to 160 meters; Palm View Marina, located on the Dubai Harbour seafront, which boasts a lively shoreside walkway; and Nakheel Marinas on Palm Jumeirah, which welcomes a range of sailing vessels with 261 berths in two marinas plus luxury yacht services. 

Dubai’s busy winter-season calendar is filled with international events that appeal to yacht owners and other high-end travelers. The Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships, Emirates Dubai Sail Grand Prix, Emirates Dubai 7s rugby, and Dubai World Cup horse racing are just a few of the must-see tournaments for sports aficionados. On the cultural scene, there are Art Dubai, Dubai Watch Week, DIFC Art Nights, and World Art Dubai. High-profile maritime expositions that showcase the latest in yacht design, technology, and luxury include the Dubai International Boat Show, which celebrated its 30th anniversary earlier this year, and the three-day Gulf Superyacht Summit 2024, coming in November. 

As Dubai has grown as a world-class yachting destination, the city has also focused on sustainability of its rich marine environment through collaborations and green marina initiatives with the aim of promoting responsible yachting and protecting the ocean’s biodiversity. Ensuring the health of the seas is a crucial element in maintaining Dubai’s importance to the luxury yachting community now and for generations to come. 

Dubai’s position as a global hub For Superyachts

Saturday, January 14, 2023 12:00 AM

- World-Class Infrastructure and diverse offering further reinforces Dubai’s position as a global hub For Superyachts • Streamlined legislation, increased investment in infrastructure and hosting of international maritime events contribute towards growth of Dubai’s yachting industry With its world-class infrastructure, advanced facilities, year-round sunshine, luxury marinas, award-winning tourism offerings, rich maritime history and picturesque coastline, Dubai has emerged as the quintessential yachting destination. Following Dubai’s participation recently at the Monaco Yacht Show, and the recent Gulf Superyacht Summit 2022 hosted in Dubai under the patronage of P&O Marinas with participation from government and private sectors, industry professionals, thought-leaders, experts, and yacht owners the future is looking brighter for Dubai’s yachting industry, with increased investment in marine infrastructure and facilities, streamlined industry legislation, and a proliferation of nautical events set to take place throughout the year. During the Monaco Boat Show, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) announced upgrades to marina facilities, new legislation, cruising permit extensions, the expansion of professional yachting and maritime academies for new industry talent, and more seamless processes for obtaining charter permits, alongside the streamlining of immigration and customs clearance services, further amplifying Dubai’s appeal as a global superyacht hub.   The rapid expansion of this sector has been bolstered by significant investment in yachting facilities and continued enhancement of its offering for yachts, alongside Dubai’s vast array of fine-dining restaurants, as well as diverse experiences and tourism attractions, all within close proximity to the marinas.  The rapid growth of the industry has led to the unveiling of a number of mega projects including the redevelopment of Mina Rashid as a yachting destination in 2017, and Dubai Harbour - an exceptional seafront district accommodating a wide range of upscale living, retail, hospitality experiences and mooring facilities.  Dubai is now home to 15 vibrant marinas with more than 3,000 docking spots, many of which can comfortably accommodate superyachts and mega yachts. The city’s offering is further enhanced and made more alluring by its number of dock and dine options that are available, in addition to its varied destination offerings, spanning many leisure touchpoints from heritage to entertainment, outdoor adventures to beach activities, gastronomy to family-oriented experiences, and from shopping to luxury. A year-round watersports destination Dubai’s position as a leading yacht tourism destination has been further reinforced by a range of factors with year-round sunshine and cool ocean breeze combining with unmatched aquatic sporting facilities and offerings, including self-drive boat tours, island hopping, jet ski tours, water skiing, paragliding and more, to create unforgettable experiences for yacht tourists. The recent soft launch of P&O Marinas Sailing Academy adds an important facility to host the sport of sailing. Watersports companies throughout the emirate offer a package of experiences that can be provided directly to private yachts, giving thrill seekers the chance to jet ski or waterski past some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Dubai-based travel companies are well-equipped to provide a range of water-based pursuits, including diving experiences, fishing trips, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kite surfing, offering guests the chance to explore the magical marine life below the ocean. A host of lifestyle experiences Dubai continues to thrive as a popular yacht tourism destination due to its land and sea offerings, as guests can simply hop off their vessels into one of Dubai’s luxury marinas and beyond to enjoy a plethora of tourist attractions, gastronomy offerings and retail outlets. When docking in Dubai, tourists can enjoy the city’s dynamic gastronomy scene, home to over 200 nationalities and rich in cultural diversity. Similarly, when stopping in the city, visitors can discover Dubai’s tourist attractions and visit some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Dubai Marina, the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa, whilst extended itineraries include excursions to The World Islands.  Alternatively, if guests wish to enjoy a more extensive experience, yachts are available to hire for longer, extended excursions. Moreover, when exploring the emirate, guests can enjoy world-class retail offerings, with the city being home to some of world’s largest and most impressive shopping malls, as well as crafts markets and traditional souks. Guests can also enjoy a number of seasonal sales and citywide retail celebrations taking place all through the year, including the world famous Dubai Shopping Festival. A vibrant events calendar The city’s offering extends beyond luxury marinas and water sports, with many yacht tourists having the opportunity to enjoy Dubai’s action packed calendar of events, with exciting activities across sports, music, arts, culture, and food. With a natural interest in yachting activities, yacht tourists are likely to Dubai Boat Show which will be hosted from 1 – 3 March 2023. This is in addition to a number of other sporting events taking place throughout the city including the DP World Tour in January 2023, and Dubai Duty Free Tennis in February 2023 and more. There are also an array of entertainment and theatrical events taking place every month at Dubai’s music and entertainment venues including Dubai Opera and Coca-Cola Arena. An extensive range of partners Dubai’s luxurious marinas and harbours are part of the city’s allure as a destination, and yacht tourists and enthusiasts alike can utilise the services of leisure travel companies that operate yacht tours from marinas in the city including Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Creek Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Harbour and Jaddaf Waterfront Marina. A number of quality and safety assured yachting companies offer bespoke itineraries, the latest watersport experiences, along with state-of-the-art nautical equipment, for a safe and refreshing day at sea.   Leading yachting destinations in the city Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods and marinas, home to an array of restaurants, attractions, shops and more. Pier 7 is one of the marina’s many distinctive dining destinations, with seven different eateries within the building, all of which offer sweeping views of the city.   P&O Marinas is already looking after some of the most exclusive and advanced yachts at Mina Rashid Marina, which boasts 454 wet berths, 160 dry berths, and the capacity to accommodate 60 superyachts without any size restrictions. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is another one of the city’s most visited yachting destinations, with a range of refined beach clubs, restaurants, sporting and leisure activities all within the destination. This marina also incorporates a boat charter operation, fully equipped workshop and a boat repair yard and is the first Marina in Dubai to be ISO Certified, making it the ideal spot for yacht tourists to dock, unwind and hand over to the skilled marina teams to service their vessels.  Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club operates two full-service charter vessels from the marina, "Sneak Away" and "Creek Breeze" for all sport fishing and leisure cruising needs. Similarly, a number of other marinas and docking points offer expert private maintenance, so keen yacht tourists need look no further than Dubai’s marinas to ensure the health of their vessels. The city has a range of offerings and amenities for crew, with a range of private clubhouses. At Dubai Marina Yacht Club, crew from across the four registered marinas can enjoy their private cigar lounge, a number of yacht clubs and two restaurants. Similarly, the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club offers crew and professional sailors an array of offerings, which include their Club House, a private hire venue, sailing and cruising lessons and much more. Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance sector, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, commented: “Dubai continues to grow in stature as a leading marine tourism destination and a global superyacht capital through the combined efforts and support of our valued stakeholders. Inspired by our visionary leadership to position the UAE as the best destination in the world to live in, work and visit, we remain committed to investing in facilities and infrastructure, whilst ensuring that the process for docking in Dubai’s marinas is smooth and seamless. We also strive to inspire people by creating new experiences and will continue to play a pivotal role in showcasing the city to the globe as an international superyacht hub and a magnet for marine leisure tourists." Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding, the owner and curator of Dubai Harbour said: “Dubai Harbour remains committed to cultivating an extraordinary maritime lifestyle in the city, inspired by our connection to the sea. The seafront district’s unique backdrop, iconic vista and accessible location are combined with comprehensive berthing and mooring facilities, providing a maritime gateway that delivers a premier, vibrant and multifaceted yachting experience.  Providing a full home port solution in one of the world’s most spectacular cruising grounds, Dubai Harbour enables direct access to the open waters of the Arabian Gulf with Dubai Harbour Yacht Club as a reference point for the future of yachting and Dubai Harbour Marinas offering the region’s largest marina, featuring close to 700 berths that can accommodate yachts up to 160m in length. We are positive that the superyacht industry holds an exciting future ahead, with a wide range of opportunities available for not only Dubai but also for the nation. We look forward to continuing to play our role in Dubai’s ambition to become the most visited city in the world.” Hamza Mustafa, Chief Operating Officer of P&O Marinas, a DP World company said: “Dubai is fast emerging as an ideal global superyacht destination. The emirate has already developed its reputation as a luxury yachting hub with the creation of several high-end marinas, making a key contribution to the nation’s economy. P&O Marinas has invested to enhance the UAE’s yachting infrastructure. We recently announced a joint venture with Al Seer Marine and MB92 Group to develop a new service centre and refit shipyard in Dubai, and hosted Sail Grand Prix, for the first time in the region. We look forward to collaborating with key industry players as we increase our footprint and reinforce the city’s position as a global hub for superyachts and sailing enthusiasts.” Mohamed Alshaali, Gulf Craft Chairman said; “Gulf Craft is proud to have been a key contributor to Dubai and the UAE’s marine manufacturing industry and a supporter of the government’s ongoing commitment to cementing the emirates reputation as an international yachting destination. 92% of all of our boats and yachts designed and built locally at our fully integrated, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility are exported to proudly fly the UAE flag in ports and marinas around the world. As a UAE born and based manufacturer, our international clients can benefit from a wealth of support services and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing we are on hand when visiting the UAE. With service centres located close to Dubai, as well as our new Gulf Craft Experience Centre in Mina Rashid, we are perfectly located in the heart of the region with capacity and facilities to cater for boats and yachts of all sizes.” For more information on yachting in Dubai please visit: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/travel-trade/yachting-in-dubai

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DUBAI Yacht – World’s Third Biggest $500M Superyacht

The DUBAI yacht is one of the biggest yachts in the world .

The 162-meter vessel was built by Blohm + Voss in Germany and delivered to her owner the prime minister of the United Arab Emirates, in 2006.

DUBAI yacht interior

Since DUBAI took nearly ten years to complete her interior was replanned several times.

Andrew Winch is thought to have influenced the design and the renowned studio Platinum Yachts also worked on DUBAI.

The interior of this gigantic vessel is just as you might expect it.

Luxurious furniture, opulent design, and extravagant features complement the beautiful exterior of DUBAI.

The interior is decorated in bright colors with a great variety of entertainment spaces and salons.

The glass staircase is a central focal point within the yacht and is reminiscent of a cruise ship.

DUBAI can welcome 48 guests in 24 luxurious cabins as well as a sizable crew of 88 members.

There is a nightclub, a spa, a beauty salon, a cinema, and a gym on board DUBAI.

Many rooms are decorated with mosaics or tapestries and only the finest and most expensive fabrics.

Specifications

DUBAI has a length of 162 meters (531.6 ft) making her the fourth largest yacht in the world.

She has a 22-meter (72.2 ft) beam, a 5-meter (16.5 ft) draft, and a total weight of 12,488 tons.

Her four diesel MTU engines allow her to reach top speeds of 25 knots with an average cruising speed of 20 knots.

Her 1,250,000 liter fuel tanks bring her total reach to an impressive 8,500 nautical miles. 

The exterior of the DUBAI yacht was developed by the well-known English yacht designer Andrew Winch.

His international design studio took special care with this project, and it is one of their largest to date.

The DUBAI yacht is an all-white yacht with a massive aluminum superstructure and steel hull.

She has a helipad and a beautiful mosaic swimming pool located aft.

Of course, there is plenty of space reserved for sunbathing on one of the vessel’s seven decks.

Two 10-meter tenders find space on board DUBAI as well as a large selection of water toys.

DUBAI yacht price

The sheikh purchased DUBAI for a price of US $500 million in 2006, which makes her one of the more expensive superyachts in her size category.

She generates an estimated US $35 to 50 million in annual running costs.

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MONACO YACHT SHOW 2023

Plans for ‘world-leading’ superyacht refit facility in UAE revealed

Al seer marine, mb92 and p&o marinas have partnered to create a world leading refit shipyard in the gulf region….

Al Seer Marine , MB92 Group and P&O Marinas have announced that they have signed a memorandum of understanding in view of setting up a joint venture to develop the first dedicated superyacht refit and repair facility in the UAE (Dubai). The shipyard construction is scheduled for completion in 2026, with the joint venture offering its superyacht repair and refit services from next year in 2023, as the start of this strategic plan.

Al Seer Marine has been looking to develop a world class Superyacht Service Centre and Refit Shipyard in the UAE since 2019 and after discussions with P&O Marinas in Dubai, they believe they have found the perfect strategic partner to realise the project. Now with MB92 Group as the third partner and the chosen operator of the shipyard, this new facility will help to provide an alternative migration pattern for superyachts.

Jean-Marc Bolinger, CEO of MB92 Group, commented on the venture, “Creating a world-class refit shipyard from scratch, in the dynamic hub of Dubai and the Gulf, represents a very exciting and unique opportunity for our Group, which has been on our strategic agenda for several years. It will enable us to expand the footprint of our first-class facilities and provide our clients in the region with the same level of service and support they receive and expect in Barcelona and La Ciotat. We look forward to presenting the details of this exciting joint venture to our key stakeholders in the coming months.”

For those interested in finding out more about the latest developments in the UAE, be sure to head to the Yacht Club De Monaco on Thursday the 29th of September where our Chairman and Editor in Chief Martin Redmayne will be hosting an evening event themed around Superyachts in the Gulf. The event begins at 17:00 and will include opportunities for a Q&A and to network with VIP guests from the region. 

Gunther Alvarado, Chief Operating Officer of Al Seer Marine noted that, “Leading this powerful partnership is part of Al Seer Marine’s overall investment strategy and vision for the Gulf Region, with some of the most complex superyachts owned and operated in the region, we will have a world class facility with leading suppliers and subcontractors, that will serve their requirements.”

This is, of course, a massive piece of good news for the entire superyacht industry, but the event highlighted above is not the only exciting opportunity centred around the gulf at MYS. Once construction is complete, the Gulf could potentially be just as popular with superyachts as regions such as the Caribbean. And, if you are indeed a yachting stakeholder who is fond of sand dunes and salty air, you will have the opportunity to enter a competition with the prize of winning an all inclusive trip to the Dubai Sail GP and Formula 1 in Abu Dhabi when you visit the UAE stand in PP75.

      View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Superyacht Group (@thesuperyachtgroup)

Speaking on the potential for yachting in the region, Hamza Mustafa, Chief Operating Officer of P&O Marinas, said, “The UAE is the ideal location to service the Gulf region’s growing number of superyacht owners. Dubai has developed its reputation over the years as a top destination for luxury yachting with the creation of several high-end marinas. We already look after some of the most exclusive and advanced yachts at Mina Rashid Marina. With the development of a new service centre and refit shipyard, the UAE and Dubai’s offering as a hub for yacht owners will be even more attractive.”

As always, The Superyacht Group will be at the very forefront of any exciting announcements regarding superyacht infrastructure development in the UAE. To be sure to stay up to date with the latest news and gain unrivalled insight into the top events at MYS this season be sure to sign up as an Essential Member here…

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Iconic yachts: Inside the build of 162m superyacht Dubai

Related articles, superyacht directory.

The creation of the iconic yacht Dubai was far from straightforward, with the build changing hands three times. Dubai was the largest yacht in the world by volume at the time of her build, with a gross tonnage of 12,488GT. She was originally intended for one royal family but went on to be used by another royal entirely. Commissioned by the Sultan of Brunei’s brother, Prince Jefri Bolkiah, Dubai started her life in Germany with naval architecture developed by Blohm+Voss (now part of Lürssen Yachts ), while design came from the UK’s Winch Design . In 1998, the project rolled to a standstill, with work completed on only the steel hull and part of the aluminium superstructure. The project was lying on a covered floating dock at the Blohm+Voss yard, and liquidators went out into the market to find potential buyers.

• Iconic yachts: The story of Steve Jobs's Feadship superyacht Venus

Her name gives the next part of the story away: the partially built yacht was sold to the Dubai government. “Once Jefri fell out with his brothers, his assets were seized, including the yacht which was at early stage of construction,” explains Kostis Antonopoulos, the former managing director of Platinum Yachts, which eventually oversaw the build of Dubai . “In fact, at that time I was working at SETE of Latsis group and we offered for the project, but Dubai offered more and they got it.”

Initially, the Dubai government assigned the build project to Karam Sadikoglou in Turkey. The dock, partially built yacht and containers holding equipment such as main engines and generators were sent to Sadikoglou’s facility in Turkey. However, progress was slow, and the Dubai government demanded the project be transferred to the UAE. With progress still slow and costs skyrocketing, Sadikoglou left the project. Antonopoulos was brought in to finish the build under the banner of Platinum Yachts , a subsidiary of Dubai World. The project had almost 800 people working on it, not including the hundreds of subcontractors. Antonopoulos’s job wouldn’t be an easy one – he had to reorganise the structure of the build team, restore confidence in the project and gain the confidence of the Palace. Sultan bin Sulayem, the chairman of Dubai World, served as the in-between for the owner and yard.

• Iconic yachts: Inside the story of Lürssen's 114.5m superyacht Pelorus

“The design of Dubai was quite ahead of its time, and although she had an enormous size the design did not flirt at all with the shapes of cruise ships,” says Antonopoulos. “And except for the hull, the rest was built and outfitted by people who had no idea what a yacht looked like.” Antonopoulos flew employees to the Monaco Yacht Show so they could see the details that make a superyacht. “It was great experience for them and a quantum leap to their knowledge and understanding,” he says.

• Iconic yachts: Inside Lürssen's 90.1m eco explorer yacht Ice

The interior design was completed in-house by Platinum, and most of the build-out was by local contractors in Dubai. “The brief was simple: the owner wanted a floating Burj Al Arab – and he got it,” says Antonopoulos of the colourful interior which he describes as an “attack” on the senses. There are many custom details, such as the handmade tiles in the swimming pool, which are lit up by embedded optical fibres. Her massive volume afforded space for 48 guests and 88 crew. Dubai also had a cinema , disco, helideck , and a garage holding a submarine and a variety of toys.

• Iconic yachts: Inside the design journey of the 138 metre Lürssen superyacht Rising Sun

As Dubai was built for a royal, security was a priority. “I asked a computer security firm to hack the yacht’s network , and while we thought that we had a very secure ship, the guys hacked it in 30 minutes! Of course, we redesigned the security,” says Antonopoulos. Another day, the owner came on board and discovered the lower decks did not have a clear GSM signal, so ceilings had to be ripped apart to add repeaters. Challenges to make the yacht SOLAS compliant were resolved by sending materials for lab tests to obtain class approvals.

Antonopoulos, who currently serves as managing director of Samos Steamship Co, looks back fondly at his time working on the build of the iconic yacht Dubai . “I enjoyed building a really good team,” he says. “When I arrived, the people in the project were working in isolation and there were competing teams… I managed to bring them together and make them understand that by cooperation and teamwork we can not only achieve successful completion of the yacht but we can also enjoy our time together!”

• Iconic yachts: Inside the story of Lürssen's legendary 98m Carinthia VII

It’s been quite a while since the royally iconic yacht Dubai was finally launched in 2006, but Antonopoulos says she stands the test of time. “I think her design is timeless and she can even be considered a classic now.” Dubai sails under the UAE flag and is known to be an active yacht, recently spotted cruising in the waters off her namesake city.

More about this yacht

More stories, most recent, from our partners, sponsored listings.

So luxurious is Dubai ruler’s $400 million megayacht that it is literally a floating Burj Al-Arab – Aptly named Dubai the 531 feet long vessel has 50 lavish guest rooms, its own submarine, a disco, a squash court and a swimming pool that is lit up by embedded fiber optic lights.

• News & Events

Xclusive News

Sailing through time: the evolution of yachting in dubai.

• 08 Dec 2023

Introduction

Dubai, a city synonymous with luxury and innovation, has a rich history that intertwines with the azure waters of the Persian Gulf. This article delves into the evolution of yachting in Dubai, tracing its journey from traditional dhow boats to the opulent mega-yachts that grace its shores today.

The Early Days: Dhows and Pearls Yachting in Dubai has its roots in the humble beginnings of the pearling industry. Before oil, pearls were the backbone of Dubai's economy. The traditional dhow, an iconic symbol of the Arabian maritime heritage, was the vessel of choice for pearl divers. These wooden boats, built for endurance and capacity, were a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the early Emiratis.

The Oil Boom: A New Era Begins The discovery of oil in the 1960s transformed Dubai from a sleepy fishing village into a bustling metropolis. With newfound wealth, the city's elite began to indulge in more luxurious lifestyles, and yachting emerged as a symbol of status and opulence. The influx of wealth led to the development of sophisticated marinas and yacht clubs, catering to a growing interest in recreational boating and sailing.

Modern Yachting: A Hub for Luxury Today, Dubai stands as a global yachting destination, boasting some of the world’s most luxurious marinas, such as the Dubai Marina and the iconic Palm Jumeirah. These state-of-the-art facilities offer world-class amenities and have become hotspots for international yachting events and regattas.

Yacht Design and Innovation The evolution of yacht design in Dubai reflects the city's commitment to innovation. Modern yachts in Dubai feature cutting-edge technology, lavish interiors, and bespoke amenities. From solar-powered eco-yachts to floating palaces equipped with helipads and private theaters, Dubai's yacht industry pushes the boundaries of maritime luxury.

The Future: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Trends As the world moves towards sustainability, the yachting industry in Dubai is also adapting. Eco-friendly yachts, super yachts , sustainable marina developments, and initiatives to protect marine life are becoming increasingly prevalent. This shift not only ensures the longevity of the industry but also preserves the marine environment that is an integral part of Dubai's heritage.

Conclusion From traditional dhows to modern mega-yachts, the history of yachting in Dubai is a reflection of the city’s transformation and its enduring connection to the sea. As Dubai continues to innovate and evolve, the world of yachting will undoubtedly sail alongside, charting new courses in luxury and sustainability.

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The 5 Best Dubai Dinner Cruises [2024 Reviews]

With a population of over 3 million people including over 200 nationalities, it is an absolute wonder that Dubai started out as nothing more than a small fishing settlement back in 1833.

Now a modern metropolis with rich and varying cultural experiences, architectural wonders, and unmatched natural beauty, it is no wonder at all that Dubai is one of the number one destinations in the world.

With everything from mouth-watering local cuisine, pristine beaches, a beautiful desert, spectacular cityscapes, neverending markets, and even the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa, Dubai makes for an unforgettable experience perfect for singles, couples, families, or friends!

There’s no doubt that one of the best ways to ensure you get to glimpse as many of the incredible landmarks as possible is to catch one of the astounding water cruises that Dubai has to offer! Many of these tours offer a variety of local cuisines, helpful tour guides, 5-star amenities, and of course, an unparalleled view of Dubai’s amazing sights.

Most of the tours offered hit Dubai’s hottest spots from the world’s largest ferris wheel (Ain Dubai also known as Dubai Eye), the famous Burj Al Arab hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Atlantis, Bluewater island, and more!

Some tours include various refreshments ranging from bottled water to full buffets. Swimming, live entertainment, and private cabins can also be found on some of these Dubai yacht tours!

Best Dubai Dinner Boat and Yacht Cruises

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Dubai Dinner Boat and Yacht Cruises For 2024

• Dubai: Mega Yacht Cruise with Buffet Dinner
• Marina Private Luxury Yacht Tour
• Superyacht Experience with Live Music & Drinks
• Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ
• 2-Hour Evening Dhow Cruise and Dinner

Dubai Dinner Boat Cruise Reviews

1. dubai: mega yacht cruise with buffet dinner.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai Marina
• Includes breakfast, lunch, or dinner
• No swimming

OceanAir Travels presents this incredible marina yacht cruise highlighting world-famous destinations around Palm Jumeirah! For this 2-hour cruise, you will choose between multiple meeting times for either breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

You will join your group at the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club and be welcomed aboard the vessel with fresh juice, sliced fruit, and a stunning variety of other refreshments.

If you choose the earlier breakfast cruise, you will be able to enjoy everything from fruit, cheese, butter, and jam to pastries, Turkish labneh, and ham rolls! Alternatively, you can choose either the lunch or dinner cruise option and be met with delicious BBQ options.

The lunch and dinner choices feature a buffet including things like hummus, Fattoush salad, Umm Ali, Arabic bread, and veggie rice as well as BBQ veggies, shrimp, chicken, and kebabs.

Not only will you enjoy the mouth-watering refreshments, but OceanAir Travels takes the comfort of their guests very seriously. Nothing but the best 5-star amenities are provided allowing you to truly relax and have the best possible experience.

It is the driving belief at OceanAir that the key to understanding and tolerance is exploring and experiencing all of the rich and diverse cultures of the world.

Their goals include helping to connect people through enriching experiences, which is exactly what you will get as you cruise past sights like the Dubai Eye, Jumeirah Beach, the Burj Al Arab hotel, and so much more!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. marina private luxury yacht tour.

• Duration: 2, 3, or 5 hours
• Departure: Marina Walk, Dubai Marina
• Refreshments not included
• Stops for optional swimming

After something a little more exotic for your Dubai trip? Royal Blue Coast Yachts is offering you just that with their private luxury tours! That’s right – this is a private tour! On this tour, the only guests will be you and your own private group.

That means 100% of the live tour guide’s and crew’s attention is on your group allowing you to have a more personalized and intimate experience as you travel Duabai’s waters.

Several different tour options are offered including a 2-hour cruise, 3-hour cruise, and even 5-hour cruise featuring fireworks! It’s definitely an incredible opportunity for an unforgettable experience.

On-board music creates a fun and relaxed atmosphere as you take in the famous Dubai sites as seen from the water. Sights like the Kempinski Hotel and Residences, the Lagoon, and the architecturally stunning Atlantis are just a few of the famous landmarks featured on this luxury tour.

Depending on your specific tour choice, Royal Blue Coast Yachts offers a few different vessels. One of the more impressive options is a stunning 60-foot yacht that accommodates up to 25 people quite comfortably with 5-star comforts.

While this tour doesn’t offer refreshments, you will be excited to hear that it does stop in the lagoon to offer guests the opportunity for a refreshing swim off the yacht!

3. Superyacht Experience with Live Music & Drinks

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure: 34VM+FM Dubai
• Includes a meal and drinks (tea, coffee, water, juice, beers, wines)

SUPERyacht is right! This remarkable vessel has all the bells and whistles you could dream of. It is a 144-foot luxury superyacht featuring an impressive 3 decks, 6 lovely cabins, and a fabulous dining area where you can enjoy the lavish included breakfast, lunch, or dinner depending on the time slot you choose for your tour.

Xclusive Yachts has created a real VIP experience with this tour even including live music with a professional DJ on the top deck of the boat – also known as the sky lounge. You can dance your way past the unbelievable sights of Dubai including Bluewater Island, Jumeirah Beach, the Ain wheel, JBR, and more!

The superyacht even offers free Wi-Fi to all guests to help you stay connected while out on the water. The adventures and amenities don’t stop there, though! This is another tour offering some relaxing swim time during the 3-hour tour and even has towels and slippers as well as life jackets for guests to use at their convenience.

How does a friendly game of Mario Kart sound? Yep! This superyacht has a game console on board for a little competitive fun with friends – old or new!

One more thing that sets this tour apart from other Dubai yacht tour options is its wide variety of beverages – including alcohol! Make sure you bring your ID because while the water, tea, juice, and coffee options are excellent, you will also have the choice of a variety of beers and premium drinks.

Whether you are interested in the calm and serene environment of the bottom deck or you’re ready to party with the DJ in the sky lounge, this tour has something for everyone.

4. Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ

• Duration: 2 or 3 hours
• Departure: Dubai Marina
• Includes breakfast or BBQ buffet

The tour options for this vessel are either 2 or 3 hours long departing from and returning to the Dubai Marina. You can choose from 6 different times to leave for a breakfast tour, lunch tour, afternoon tour, sunset tour, moonlit tour, or twilight tour!

Each tour features an included meal. Breakfast options feature croissants, donuts, muffins, breakfast meats, cheeses, fruits, and more. If you go with a lunch or dinner tour, you will have options including chicken burgers, beef burgers, veggie burgers, chicken and veggie skewers, lamb kofta, and greek salad plus a variety of other options.

The live tour guide will give you tons of fascinating info on all the awesome destinations you will cruise by. You’ll cruise by all the best landmarks in Dubai starting in the Marina and checking out Jumeirah Beach, the Dubai Eye, Bluewaters Island, and some of the most architecturally impressive and unique hotels you have ever seen.

This tour’s yacht also has free Wi-Fi, a gorgeous dinette area, and 3 roomy cabins with natural light flowing freely in.

5. 2-Hour Evening Show Cruise and Dinner

• Departure: Driver picks up and drops off from Dubai hotels
• Includes dinner buffet

Unlike previous options, this tour is offered aboard a traditional Arabian dhow! If you didn’t know, a dhow is an ancient type of ship with a unique design. While the exact origin story of the dhow has been long lost to history, it is believed they originated as far back as 600 BC.

While the Arabs originally used dhows primarily for fishing and trading, they certainly make an enriching and beautiful tour vessel now! Easily the most romantic choice, this tour is strictly offered in the evening as a dinner cruise.

Arabic and international dishes are offered in a spectacular feast including appetizers, salads, meats, fish, and even some scrumptious desserts. You will enjoy all this while gliding past the beautifully illuminated Dubai evening skyline.

To further set this tour apart, Orient Tours offers hotel pick-up as well as drop-off before and after the tour. As long as your hotel is within Dubai city limits, the tour includes a friendly driver to bring you to the meeting point as well as return you to your hotel as your magical evening comes to a close.

Dubai Travel Guide

Dubai is a modern city of unparalleled expansion. Over a period of 50 years, the population has grown from 60,000 people to 3,188,000.

Obviously, with that growth over 98% of the city’s buildings and infrastructure is brand new. Here’s where you’ll find the tallest building, the tallest hotel, and the busiest international passenger airport in the world.

But the history of Old Dubai goes back over 3,000 years and the desert wilderness is only a short drive away. Today, there’s lots for everyone to see and do in this fascinating global supercity.

Airports & Entry

Although the Emirate of Dubai is a small kingdom within a country of fewer than 10 million people, Dubai International Airport is a major transportation hub and the world’s third busiest airport.

That means the airport is huge and offers some great facilities. There are 3 terminals and 4 concourses. However, while Terminal 3 is modern and the largest airport terminal building in the world, Terminals 1 and 2 are dated and not so plush.

Inside the airport, you’ll find a broad range of stores and eating outlets—like Costa Coffee, Baskin Robbins, and McDonald’s—many open 24 hours. There’s free Wi-Fi on the “DXB Free WiFi” and “DWC Free WiFi” networks and abundant mobile charging stations. If you require internet access but don’t have a mobile device, there are internet kiosks beside Connect and Global Link (Gate C16).

There are Information Desks near the Duty-Free stores Airside, and assistants wandering around the airport wearing blue polo shirts with a “May I Help You?” logo. You can find 24-hour currency exchange counters in all 3 terminals as well as ATMs.

If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a Children’s Play Area in Terminal 3 Airside. You’ll also find Baby Care Facilities throughout the airport. To gain access, visit one of the Information Desks or ask a “May I Help You?” assistant for help.

For passengers stranded at the airport for a long time, there’s a Health Club with a gym, showers, swimming pool, steam room, and jacuzzi Airside behind the Dubai International Hotel. This is accessed from Terminal 1, Gate 115, or Terminal 3, Concourse 2. For the less health-conscious, there are smoking rooms in Terminal 1 Airside, Gate D12, Terminal 2 Airside, and multiple locations in Terminal 3.

In case of medical emergencies, Medical Care Centers are found in Terminal 1, Gate C13, and Terminal 3, Level 0. There are pharmacies in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 Departures. Muslim prayer rooms are available in the car park and throughout the airport.

The airport is only 3 miles from the center of Dubai and getting there is simple by public transport. To use public transport, purchase a rechargeable NOL Card at the airport. NOL cards are used in Dubai to pay for buses, Metro, water buses, Dubai tram, and parking in RTA car parks.

The most efficient method is by Metro. Starting at 5.30 am and ending at midnight, services run every 10 minutes from Terminals 1 and 3. However, note that on Friday services don’t begin until 1 pm. Note there is a special “Gold Class” carriage at the front of the train if you want a scenic front window view during your journey. There are also designated carriages for women traveling alone and children.

Despite the distance being only 3 miles, the Metro journey to the city center takes 40 minutes. Because many hotels are situated next to Metro stations, it will be better for you to know where your hotel is and to plan your journey to go straight to that station rather than traveling to the city center. The cost is around $2.

The buses are operated by RTA and depart from bus stands opposite all 3 terminals. A special SkyBus service (also RTA) connects the airport directly to the most popular hotels. You’ll need a NOL Card to ride on a bus. Bus services are every 7 minutes during the day and 20 minutes at night. When the Metro is closed, you can still take a bus. The journey takes a minimum of 1 hour and may be much longer if there’s a traffic jam. The journey costs around $1.

The taxi rank is situated in the ground transportation area of the airport. Taxis driven by men are cream-colored, and taxis driven by women are pink trimmed. The ride into the city costs around $42 and usually takes less than 45 minutes. If you’re traveling with kids or elderly people, taking a taxi might be your best option to get quickly and safely to the hotel doorstep.

If you want the freedom of a hire car, note that there are more car rental companies represented at Terminal 1 Arrivals than at Terminals 2 and 3 Arrivals. You’ll need an International Drivers’ License and passport to hire a vehicle. You can hire a car for as little as $25 per day. Note that you may have to deal with traffic jams. I’d recommend using the Metro or a taxi rather than driving yourself in an unfamiliar city.

Planning Tips

Dubai is a popular destination, and the local people do their best to make visitors feel welcome. However, you’re not in Kansas anymore. Here are 5 tips for a trouble-free visit.

Tip #1: Decide what you want to do before planning when to go to Dubai

The weather is super hot in the summer. There’s a good chance you’ll feel uncomfortable on the beach if you try to visit during summer. Spring and fall are the best times to visit to enjoy the beach. And if you’re mainly interested in sightseeing, why not come in winter? However, note that December through February is the high season in Dubai, so the queues will be long. One thing you must do is a desert safari ! There is no better way to see and experience the desert.

Tip #2: Buy unique art and crafts

For unique souvenirs and gifts, visit the souks in Deira. This is the traditional market area in the city, and the Deira Gold Souk is famous.

Tip #3: Be careful not to offend with your clothing

Dubai is a liberal city where 70% of the residents are ex-pats. However, it is still an Islamic city. You don’t have to cover your head or wear traditional Arabic clothes (unless you’re visiting a mosque) but you are expected to be respectful. Avoid showing cleavage and midriff (unless in a nightclub or on a beach). Don’t wear super short shorts or skirts in public places where you’re likely to mix with locals, such as the shopping malls and museums. It’s not that it’s against the law…it’s being respectful of local customs and traditions.

Tip #4: Book in advance, especially during winter

Dubai is an especially popular destination. You won’t get into most nightclubs unless you book in advance. Many popular activities, such as going to the top of the world’s tallest building, can be booked in advance to avoid queues. Reputable tour companies offer refunds for tours tickets canceled with reasonable notice, so you’re not risking much when you book in advance.

Tip #5: Avoid visiting during Ramadan OR be patient and thoughtful

The timing of the month of Ramadan changes every year, but for 2020 it is around 23 rd April through 23 rd May. During Ramadan, you will find that many local people slow down and businesses close in the middle of the day for rests or early at night when the staff are due to break their fast. It is prohibited to eat in public during Ramadan, so you’ll only be able to eat in designated areas. You’ll be expected to dress more modestly during Ramadan and be especially polite.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Dubai is a fantastic place to sample Middle Eastern cuisine. Because of its central location in the Persian Gulf, the local fare is a tasty combination of Arabic, Iranian, and Lebanese food.

For breakfast, you could try margoogat. This is a rich vegetable stew with added Arab spices, such as bezar, cumin, and turmeric. Often made with tomato, squash, and eggplant, Dubaites often eat this dish to end their daily fast during Ramadan. Alternatively, manousheh is a popular breakfast dish from Lebanon composed of dough or flatbread topped with Akkawi cheese, olive oil, and za’atar herbs (thyme, oregano, and marjoram). It’s like a kind of pizza! You can sample Lebanese food like this at Enab Beirut , an eclectic food outlet near Al Khazzan Park.

Makbus, also known as kabsa, is a popular rice dish originating in Saudi Arabia and popular in Dubai. The rice, usually basmati, is mixed with chicken, lamb, or seafood and prepared in large pots with plenty of Arab spices, dried lemon, and salt. A popular restaurant to try this traditional rice dish is Al Barza Restaurant and Café on Jumeirah Street.

If you want to eat a traditional Bedouin dish, why not sample some camel milk and eat camel meat? Camel milk is saltier than cow’s milk but lower in cholesterol, richer in protein, and with more iron and Vitamin C. Dubaite chefs like to use camel’s meat in stews and burgers because of its exotic and robust flavor. You can sample camel steaks, kebabs, and chocolate camel milkshakes in Al Bastakiya Restaurant and Café on Al Fahidi Street.

Dubaite people have their own varieties of bread to eat with their meals. These include khameer, which is a date-sweetened bread you can eat on its own or filled with anything from chicken to cheese. Many eat traditional Iranian sangak, which is a leavened flatbread made from wheat. And main dishes are often accompanied by a zesty salad of cucumber, green onions, tomatoes, and mint called tabbouleh.

Speaking of salads, Dubai actually offers a wide range of traditional vegetarian dishes. Kousa mahshi is zucchini or courgettes stuffed with rice. Shirin polo is a delicious rice dish made from nuts, raisins, carrots, and basmati rice. However, be aware that there’s a non-vegetarian version of shirin polo with chicken added. And fatteh is a popular evening dish consisting of bread covered with chickpeas and topped with yogurt and tahini sauce.

For dessert, try kanafeh. This is a Levantine filo pastry coated in honey or syrup and sprinkled with chopped pistachios. Or assidat al-Boubar is a popular pumpkin porridge with almond flour, butter, sugar, milk, and raisins. And you may be offered luqaimat dumplings made from flour, starch, sugar, and cardamom powder and rolled in syrup.

But no meal is complete without gahwa. This is Arabic coffee offered to guests as an essential matter of hospitality. Unlike western coffee, this is seasoned with cloves and cardamom and tastes more bitter than the varieties you may be accustomed to. You may find it served to you in tiny cups without handles from ornate coffee pots.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Despite being an Islamic city on the edge of the desert, Dubai has an extremely wild and active nightlife with modern superclubs and international DJs. It’s like the Ibiza of the Muslim world. However, there are obviously many legal and cultural restrictions to be aware of.

The nightlife in Dubai starts earlier and ends earlier than in European or American cities. Nightclubs open between 10 pm and 3 am, and they are busy throughout this time with a peak around 1 am. All nightclubs and bars must close by 3 am.

All bars, nightclubs, and restaurants serving alcohol are inside hotel complexes. Legally, only hotels are allowed to serve alcohol.

You’ll find the dress code in the more exclusive nightclubs much stricter than in Europe and America. You won’t get in wearing shorts and crocks. You won’t even gain entry wearing jeans. Bouncers typically refuse entry to large groups of men. Mixed groups of men and women and small groups find easier entry into nightclubs.

To get into many clubs, you must already be on the guest list. So, research the clubs you’re interested in before setting out and make arrangements online using the club’s website or Facebook page. The best way to ensure entry is to reserve a table, but this is expensive.

The legal age to drink is 21 and drinking in the street is illegal. Many clubs only admit people over 25. Patrons must show their passport at the entrance to bars or nightclubs to gain entry. Never drive back to your hotel from a bar, club, or restaurant where you had a drink because if there’s an accident, even if it’s not your fault, you’ll be taken straight to jail. The United Arab Emirates has a zero-tolerance policy toward drink driving.

The busiest nights for nightlife are Thursday and Friday (because Friday is the Islamic Sunday). Tuesday is “ladies’ night” when women gain free entry into clubs and are offered discounts and free drinks. Don’t be too judgmental about “economic tourists”, but the nightclubs of Dubai are renowned for the large number of beautiful Russian women guests. Many are there to work in the businesses of this busy cosmopolitan city, but a few are seeking a wealthy spouse or patron.

You’ll find the nightlife where the hotels congregate, such as Medinat Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. The marina is a great place for romantic restaurant dates followed by an evening stroll along the canal.

Because Dubai is such a “Mecca” for businesspeople around the Middle East to escape the restrictions of their own city and let their hair down, you’ll find literally hundreds of nightclubs and bars. Many you will struggle to enter because they all have relatively low capacities and complete to attract the many millionaires and celebrities who frequent the city. Perhaps avoid the most exclusive nightclubs unless you happen to be a billionaire or movie star.

For example, Armani/Privé is one of the most famous clubs in Dubai and located inside the world’s tallest skyscraper. The dress code is super strict, and the entry and drink prices probably more than you earn in a month. If you do gain entry, you’ll find a raised VIP area, a dance floor, and a balcony overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Oh, and the interior décor was designed by Giorgio Armani.

White Dubai is the largest club in the city and sits on the rooftop of the ultra-modern Meydan Racecourse Grandstand. Here’s where you’ll find such famous names as Jason Derulo, Akon, and Nelly. There are incredible views, amazing light shows, and a dance floor open to the stars. But this is definitely a venue you’ll only get into if you’re on the guest list.

A slightly less exclusive nightclub is the N’Dulge Club in the Atlantis Dubai Hotel on the famous Palm Island artificial island. This superclub features an outdoor terrace and the N’Dulge Arena. The Lounge area operates alongside Nobu, a popular restaurant.

If you’re looking for a bar rather than a nightclub, you’ll find a good selection around the hotels of Dubai. For example, the Lock, Stock & Barrel is a large, New-York-style bar with exposed brick walls and pool tables. They offer live music and TV sports channels. The Treehouse is a rooftop bar with a garden terrace and an ambiance aimed at romantic couples. And Fibber Magee’s is a replica Irish pub designed to make you forget you’re in the desert. Everything is authentically Irish, including the live Irish folk music.

Getting Around

Because of the way Dubai has developed over the past fifty years, there are multiple centers dotted all over the city at considerable distances from one another. This means it’s not convenient to get around on foot. If you want to sightsee, you’ll find it easiest to get around by Metro or bus. To use the Metro, buses, water buses, and the Dubai tram you’ll need a rechargeable NOL Card .

Dubai’s modern Metro is fully automated, so you won’t see any drivers. Most of the Metro lines are above ground, so you’ll get great views of the city while getting around. But the Metro doesn’t reach everywhere. In New Dubai, you’ll sometimes have to use the Dubai Tram. And the Palm Island has its own monorail service.

The public bus service is the most affordable option to get around the city. There are 1,500 air-conditioned buses in the city. They go everywhere and run during the night when the Metro has closed.

It’s always an option to hail a taxi. While they aren’t super expensive, they’re pricier than the bus or the Metro. And, to be honest, you can probably get to most places on the Metro quicker than in a taxi. For ultimate freedom, you can always rent a car. To do this, you’ll require an International Driver’s License , passport, credit card, and insurance.

Accommodations

With its artificial islands and glitzy modern skyscrapers, you might expect Dubai to be an expensive place to stay. Yes, there are many exclusive 5-star luxury hotels and billionaires’ penthouses, but there are also affordable hotels and self-catering apartments suitable for travelers on a budget.

As a general rule, the further south you go, the newer and more expensive the accommodation becomes. Since most of the more interesting attractions are to the north, I’d recommend you stay in one of the Old Neighborhoods or nearby Downtown unless you’re only here for the beaches and nightlife and have a fat billfold.

The Old Neighborhoods

The older parts of the city are where you’ll find traditional butchers and bakers, street food, family restaurants, tailors, cobblers, and older residential buildings. These include Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama, Jumeirah, and Satwa.

In this area, you’ll also find the historic district of Bastakiya where old merchants’ mansions built using coral and mud have barjeel wind towers for natural air-conditioning. Some of these interesting structures now contain cultural centers and museums.

These neighborhoods are old, but they’re not run-down. And although they’re the cultural heart of the city, you’ll find accommodation in these areas generally cheaper than the recently developed areas. If you’re planning to self-cater, this is definitely the best area for you because the shops and markets in the old neighborhoods are cheaper than in the new city.

The Novotel in central Deira provides comfy rooms, tennis courts, and both adults’ and children’s swimming pools within easy walking distance of the Deira Metro Station. This is a good choice for solo women, families, and couples. And if you’re self-catering, consider the highly rated J5 RIMAL Hotel Apartments in Deira. The apartments come with living rooms and kitchenettes, so you can prepare your own meals and cut costs. Some of the higher-spec apartments also offer washing machines.

Business Bay and Downtown Dubai

This is the most central area of Dubai situated around the Dubai Mall between Old Dubai and Dubai Marina. It’s a convenient place to stay for visiting all the attractions because it’s so central and close to both Old Dubai and New Dubai by Metro.

In fact, some of the main attractions are found around the Dubai Mall, like the Dubai Aquarium and Dubai Fountain. Here you’ll find a good selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars as well as some of the more upmarket hotels with a lively nightlife.

Check out hotels like the Vida Downtown Dubai , which offers modern rooms a short walk from the Dubai Mall and Metro Station. The Manzil Downtown Dubai is even closer to the Dubai Mall and Metro and located in the liveliest part of Downtown Dubai.

Mall of the Emirates and Surrounding Area

Here you’ll find cosmopolitan Dubai where the mix of nationalities living and working in this area leads to a diverse range of food outlets and stores. It’s central and convenient for Metro Stations.

If you want to stay in luxury, there are plenty of 5-star options in this area, such as the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , with its plush rooms and rooftop pool. But there are still budget options, such as Centro Barsha by Rotana , which offers comfortable rooms within walking distance of the Metro and Mall of the Emirates.

This is that shiny area to the south of the city around Dubai Marina and the famous artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island. This is where some of the glitziest buildings of Dubai are found. It’s the place to go if you want luxury hotels with Michelin-starred chefs and gold-plated faucets.

However, since billionaires and celebrities don’t use the Metro, you won’t find using the Metro so convenient in this area. There are no Metro stations on the artificial islands, for example. Dubai Marina does have a Metro station and offers a promenade for keen joggers and cyclists.

This is a great area to stay if you love beaches and want to spend much of your time sunbathing or swimming. But, the whole of New Dubai is a little distant from the main attractions and the lack of Metro stations makes it inconvenient for sightseeing.

The Movenpick Hotel in Jumeirah Lakes Towers is a 5-star hotel, but it’s one of the more affordable ones in this area. It’s in Dubai Marina, so it’s convenient for the Metro and the beaches. But if you want to stat in this area on a “budget”, consider an apartment at Marina View Deluxe Hotel . I use quotation marks around “budget” because this is the most expensive area, so even the budget options are relatively expensive. All suites come with refrigerators, microwaves, and kitchenettes for self-catering options, and it’s only a short walk from the Dubai Marina and Metro station.

Dubai has a hot desert climate. Unless you’re from Death Valley, take what you think of as hot and double it to imagine August in Dubai. You might think that swimming in temperatures of 100 0 F sounds great, but by the end of the day, you may envy lobsters. Midwinter temperatures in Dubai are similar to early summer in Massachusetts.

The weather in Dubai is coldest in January, with an average daily high of 75 0 F and a low of 58 0 F. It’s still sunny in winter. It’s not too cold to hit the beach and it’s a great time to go sightseeing. In April, the average high is 91 0 F and low of 70 0 F, which makes spring a perfect time of year for the beach.

It’s hottest in August, with an average high of 106 0 F and low of 87 0 F. In the afternoon, it’s too hot for the beach, but it’s okay before 11 am and late in the evening. By November, the average high drops to 87 0 F and the low is 68 0 F, making the weather much better for the beach.

Attractions

Many come to Dubai to admire the fantastic modern architecture and amazing monuments built over the past few decades, but the city also has a fascinating history.

The Dubai museum is a great place to visit to learn all about Dubai’s past. The museum is housed inside the Al-Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest building in the city built in 1787. The fort’s construction is entirely traditional using locally sourced materials. The walls are coral blocks cemented together with lime, and the ceilings are made from palm fronds and mud.

Inside the museum, you can learn about Dubaite cultural history through exhibitions like the traditional boats and palm-leaf house with a barjeel wind tower. Discover about Bedouin desert life and coastal pearl fishing. You’ll find the museum in the Bur Dubai area of the Old City.

In the nearby Bastakia Quarter, you can see historic homes built in the 19 th century for wealthy Iranian merchants who came here to deal in textiles and pearls. The traditional buildings are built from coral and lime and feature barjeel wind towers that provided natural air-conditioning.

The best-known house is one built for Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum, former ruler of Dubai. The building is considered an excellent example of Arabian architecture and now houses The Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents.

On the opposite side of Dubai Creek is the area of Deira. Here’s where you’ll find the traditional souks (markets) including the Deira Gold Souk, the biggest gold bazaar in the world. There are many historic houses in this part of the Old City including Heritage House, an Iranian merchant’s house from 1890, and the Al-Ahmadiya School of 1912, which is the Museum of Public Education.

Among these historic neighborhoods is an amazing modern building called the Dubai Frame . This is a series of galleries exploring the history of Dubai housed inside a building shaped like a 492-feet-high picture frame. The empty frame is intended to “frame” both the Old City and the New City as it frames one or the other depending upon where you stand in relation to the frame.

And there are many new buildings in Downtown and New Dubai, including the iconic Burj al-Arab, which is the world’s tallest hotel. The hotel stands on its own artificial island and is shaped like a dhow sail. Its underwater Al-Mahara restaurant enables diners to view the surrounding sea life while they eat, while the Skyview Bar at the top of the hotel provides fantastic panoramic views of the city.

But the most famous building in the city is the 2722-feet-high Burj Khalifa , which is the tallest skyscraper in the world. Much like outside the Empire State Building in NYC, tourists queue to visit the observation deck on the 124 th floor. To avoid a long wait, buy your “At the Top” entrance ticket in advance.

Many visitors to Dubai come to admire its huge shopping malls. The Dubai Mall is an interesting place to visit not only for the stores. It houses one of the most popular attractions in Dubai—the Dubai Aquarium . The aquarium features 140 species of sea life inside a huge tank on the ground floor of the mall. You can enter the Underwater Zoo to view this tank from underneath through aquarium tunnels.

If you want to get out of the city, the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is an interesting place to visit. There you’ll find bird and animal observation platforms and other attractions. At night, the Dubai Astronomy Group holds stargazing events in the reserve because the remote desert location boasts low light pollution.

Sightseeing

Tour guides, menu quality.

We selected the Marina Yacht Cruise with Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner as our Editor's Choice for Dubai's Best Dinner and Sightseeing Cruises.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best petra tours from jerusalem & tel aviv [2024 reviews], the 5 best dead sea tours from jerusalem [2024 reviews], the 5 best dubai atv & quad tours [2024 reviews], 🐫the 5 best dubai camel riding tours [2024 reviews].

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Home » Top Picks » Guide to Dubai Yacht Tours and Rentals

Guide to Dubai Yacht Tours and Rentals

Dubai is a tourist hub. Be it breathtaking views from the skyscrapers or enjoying the city view from the water, different experiences make this city unique. Speaking of marine views, you must not miss out the tour on rental yachts in Dubai.

Whether you are a tourist or resident in Dubai, you must not miss out on the adventure, sight-seeing and a luxurious dinner on the Arabian Gulf. But which tour companies offer these adventurous tours in luxurious yachts? Here’s a list of best yacht tour companies, their packages and contact details.

• Xclusive Yacht
• Dubai Marina Yacht Ride
• Royal Blue Coast Yacht Rental
• Boat Tour Dubai & Yacht Rental
• MY Cruises for Luxury Yacht Rental Dubai

List of Top-Rated Dubai Yacht Tour Companies

While there are many things to do and places to visit in Dubai , going on a yacht tour is also one of the best activities. For that, companies are offering rental yachts for a tour in Dubai.

Let’s go through the top-rated companies that provide rental yachts in Dubai.

1. Xclusive Yacht

Xclusive Yachts was established in 2006. The company is a leading and award-winning yacht charter company. It is the only company that owns its entire fleet of yachts in Dubai and always sets new industry standards and benchmarks. In short, they are known for providing a luxurious experience to their customers. 

Retail Unit 3, Marina Level, Al Majara Tower, Al Hubob Street, Dubai Marina

Contact Information

Phone and Whatsapp Number: +971 4 432 7233

Operating Hours

Monday to Sunday: 08:30 am to 10:30 pm

Yacht Rental Price

• The basic 50 ft yacht has a rent of AED 1908 for a 3-hour tour
• 92 ft yacht (X37) costs AED 5110 for 3 hours
• The biggest 140 ft yacht has a rent of AED 30000 for 4 hours
• Private Yacht Rental
• Yacht Tours
• Speedboat Tours
• Sunset & Dinner Cruise
• Sports Fishing
• Gulet Experience
• Yacht Party
• Superyacht Experience
• Superyacht Charter

2. Dubai Marina Yacht Ride

If you want to explore things to do in Dubai Marina , yacht tour can be a fulfilling experience. Among the top companies for rental yachts, Dubai Marina Yacht Ride offers luxurious yacht experiences with your favourite preference. From sports rides to Romanic sunset cruises, they offer all. Additionally, Yacht Ride Dubai provides special discounts, like a 20% discount for morning rides. 

• Dubai Marina & Harbour

Telephone: +971 56 674 5926

Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm

• The price starts from AED 550 per hour for a 43-foot Meridian Yacht. 
• AED 5000 per hour for a 143-foot VIP Super Yacht.

3. Royal Blue Coast Yacht Rental

Royal Blue Coast Yachts Dubai is a premier yacht rental company with over 15 years of experience. While offering luxurious yacht and boat rentals, they provide five-star services to all adventure seekers. If you are looking to book a yacht for a private event, the company offers luxurious cruises, with custom decoration and catering.

The Walk , Dubai Marina

Phone Number: +971 4 321 8666

• The rental price for yachts by Royal Blue Coast Yacht Rental starts from AED 400 per hour for Oryx 40 ft Mini Yacht
• Meanwhile, the 101 ft Massive Delta Luxury Yacht costs AED 3508 per hour.
• Proposal On Yacht
• Birthday Party
• Delicious Food
• Jet Ski Ride
• Fishing Package
• Boat Rental
• Yacht Rental
• Banana Ride

4. Boat Tour Dubai & Yacht Rental

Boat Tour Dubai and Yacht Rental was established in 2017 while offering a wide variety of yacht and boat rentals from Dubai Marina. Their private yacht charter and rental, boat rental and fishing trips can cater to 10 to 300 customers at a time with a fleet that includes a yacht from 31 feet to 101 feet. 

Marina Walk, next to Starbucks Coffee shop, Dubai Marina

Phone Number: +971 54 707 6333

Office Hours

• 143 ft VIP Super Yacht Dubai: AED 5000 per hour
• 101 ft VIP Yacht Rental Marina: AED 2500 per hour
• 42 ft Yacht Rental Dubai: AED 500 per hour
• Private Boat Tour – Speed Boat Ride Dubai  
• Fishing Trip Dubai  
• Yacht Rental Dubai Marina    
• Yacht Charter Dubai  
• Birthday Party & Yacht Party in Dubai 
• Yacht & Limousine Service

5. MY Cruises for Luxury Yacht Rental Dubai

Master Yachts Cruises, established in 2011, is one of the premier luxury yacht charter companies in Dubai. It owns and manages its fleet of boats and yachts. They specialise in exclusive yacht charter, and they also offer unique services like catering, event hosting, and limo rentals with their commitment to safety and luxury together.   

Marina Walk Gate S, near Waterbus Station 2 Pier, Dubai

Telephone: +971 56 118 1156

• Monday to Thursday: 06:00 am to 01:00 am
• Friday to Sunday: 06:00 am to 03:00 am
• Sea Master 1 Yacht (50 ft Yacht): AED 600 per hour
• Sea Master 2 Yacht (45 ft Yacht): AED 500 per hour
• Sea Master 3 Yacht (40 ft Yacht): AED 400 per hour
• Sea Master 4 Boat (35 ft Yacht): AED 300 per hour
• Sea Master 5 Yacht (70 ft Yacht): AED 900 per hour
• Banana Donut ride
• Luxury Limo Rental
• Private Yacht in Dubai
• Deep Sea Fishing Trip
• Yacht Cruise in Dubai
• Yacht Photography
• Yacht Decorations

You can book a yacht tour through their website, call them directly, or visit their office. If you want to book for larger groups or special events, then you should make a booking to avoid any later hurdles.

There are different capacities of yachts, ranging from small yachts for 10-12 people to larger yachts that can accommodate up to 130 guests perfectly.

To sum up, the Dubai yacht tour presents an exceptional way to explore this city’s beautiful coastline with multiple options to suit your needs while enjoying the perfect experience for you and your guests.  If you own a yacht and want to enrol in a berth, Dubai Marina Yacht Club can level up your experience.

Samrina Khan

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OMNIYAT Launches The Alba at Monaco Yacht Club: A $1.9 Billion

The Alba is the first mixed-use garden retreat by the sea in the world designed by Zaha Hadid Architects The stunning new destination encompasses ultra-luxury residences managed by Dorchester Collection, and its second hotel in Dubai with OMNIYAT, set to rise from the shores of Palm Jumeirah in 2028 Launched at the Yacht Club de Monaco during the recent Monaco Yacht Show, the new architectural masterpiece by OMNIYAT will provide private sanctuaries on the Eastern Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, offering uninterrupted views of Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa The Alba Residences offer expansive interiors, including two-bedroom furnished, three-bedroom unfurnished, as well as three or four-bedroom simplex, duplex units, and penthouses, all designed to meet individual needs Promising to host Dubai’s largest and most luxurious wellness centre

OMNIYAT, Dubai’s leading visionary developer, officially announced the launch of its latest architectural masterpiece – The Alba – at the recent Monaco Yacht Show. The launch event on September 26 th brought together a select group of VVIP customers and the media to celebrate this groundbreaking mixed-use destination on Dubai’s coastline. The project is valued at AED 7 billion ($1.9 billion).

A significant highlight of the event was the signing ceremony between OMNIYAT’s Founder & Executive Chairman, Mahdi Amjad, and Christopher Cowdray, President of Dorchester Collection, at the Yacht Club de Monaco to mark the occasion.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mahdi Amjad, Founder & Executive Chairman of OMNIYAT, said:

“The Alba, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, represents OMNIYAT’s vision of reimagined luxury by the sun and sea in Dubai. With this project, we’re providing a level of residential living previously unseen in the emirate, influenced by the incredible talent and inspirational ethos of Zaha Hadid Architects and operated by our longstanding partner, Dorchester Collection.

“This project is particularly special as it offers a harmonious blend of nature and cutting-edge design. Dubai derives so much of its charm and lifestyle from its seaside location, and The Alba – featuring OMNIYAT’s signature focus on crafting privacy-centric residences – enhances this unique connection with the water by offering a personalised waterfront experience. OMNIYAT will continue to curate unique experiences, creatively collaborating with some of the world’s most visionary minds, to surpass the traditional definition of well-living.”

Christopher Cowdray, President of Dorchester Collection , commented: “The Alba is our next luxury chapter in Dubai in partnership with OMNIYAT. Each space will be a sanctuary within an exclusive enclave that will offer residents and guests both privacy and serenity in this dynamic city. This next-level lifestyle and hospitality experience will be combined with the impeccable service of Dorchester Collection; the foundation of our culture is the care we have for our guests and people, which has been celebrated globally. With panoramic views across the sea and the city’s famous landmarks, The Alba will provide redefined luxury through exceptional design in an environment where nature and wellness converge.

“Guests and residents will enjoy exclusivity in Dorchester Collection’s first garden retreat by the sea with its expansive private terraces and immersive wellness offerings, cultivating a sophisticated oasis for reawakening, reconnection and renewal.”

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) redefined architecture for the 21 st Century with award-winning buildings that have captured imaginations across the globe. Continuing the legacy of their founder, ZHA’s renowned architectural projects become more spatially inventive, more artistically refined, more technologically advanced and more environmentally considerate with each new design. The Alba Residences offer exclusive living that places the resident at the very centre of every space. The signature OMNIYAT vision of crafting and curating the unconventional will be evident in the residences, tailored for individuals seeking a life of privacy and serenity.

The Alba, Dorchester Collection, Dubai elevates luxury living, representing OMNIYAT’s boundless vision through a  seamless blend of beachfront hospitality and ultra luxury residential experiences. At the heart of The Alba’s vision is a distilled focus on ‘well-living’ – ensuring longevity, sustainability and a deep connection to nature. Each residence also has its own private amenities, including private pools, outdoor jacuzzis, and elevated sun platforms, all placed on expansive outdoor terraces.

The Alba Residences’ interiors offer bold, bright, and expansive spaces with floor-to-ceiling heights of over three metres. Ranging from two-bedroom furnished and three-bedroom unfurnished units to three or four-bedroom simplex and duplex units, as well as capacious penthouses, the residences are designed to cater to the tailored needs of every individual.

OMNIYAT has collaborated with global leaders in interior design to create three distinct design packages, ensuring that each buyer can choose a design that best suits their lifestyle and taste.

In addition to The Alba’s own amenities, which include pools with private cabanas, sun loungers, and social gathering and entertainment areas, residents can also enjoy those of the hotel, including infinity pools, vitality pools, a fitness suite, beach areas and a branded spa with opulent treatment rooms. Destined to be one of the grandest and most luxurious in Dubai, the wellness centre will be operated by a renowned global brand partner set to be announced next year.

The landscaping, meticulously crafted by international award-winning landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic, brings a fine balance of serenity and beauty, integrating the natural world with the architectural splendour and inspired lifestyle of the Residences. The organic, arced shapes of the buildings emerge from a tropical forest and gardens enriched with cascading waterfalls and lily ponds that encompass and accentuate the architecture, fashioning shaded paths and walkways that wind right down to the waterfront.

This design not only enhances the architectural splendour of The Alba, but also highlights OMNIYAT’s commitment to creating a sustainable environment, aiming to meet the highest level of WELL Certification TM from the WELL Building Standard®. The verdant environment not only amplifies the visual splendour of the residences, but aligns with the developer’s goal of infusing luxury with ecological responsibility.

Located on the Eastern Crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, The Alba will be a  breathtaking landmark offering panoramic views of Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa. The hotel’s singular curved creation features interiors and suites meticulously designed by Gilles & Boissier, all attended by the legendary levels of service that only Dorchester Collection can provide. Its guests will benefit from outstanding culinary experiences, indulgent branded spa treatments, and elegantly appointed rooms. They can explore the lush grounds and stand at the water’s edge, soaking in the exceptional quality of light and life.

The Alba will become the twelfth Dorchester Collection hotel globally, and the second in the Middle East region, with the first being The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai. The Alba is also the seventh residential property to be managed by Dorchester Collection in Dubai.

With The Alba, OMNIYAT and Dorchester Collection have set a new benchmark in luxury coastal destinations, with the launch marking another milestone in OMNIYAT’s journey of influencing the aesthetic, cultural, and economic footprint of Dubai.

Founded in 2005 by visionary pioneer Mahdi Amjad, OMNIYAT has continuously raised the standards in ultra-luxury real estate, delivering unique living experiences that resonate globally.

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A Day on a Dubai Yacht: A Timeline

Dubai, the jewel of the Middle East, promises luxury at every corner. But nothing compares to a day spent aboard a Dubai yacht. Let’s journey through a timeline of what such a day might look like.

Morning: Setting Sail with Dubai Yacht

8:00 am: Arriving at Dubai Marina We kick off our day at the lively Dubai Marina . We’ve confirmed our yacht booking in Dubai Marina, and our adventure starts now.

9:00 am: Embarking the Yacht

After formalities, we’re led to our chosen vessel. Private yacht hire Dubai offers unparalleled luxury and comfort.

Late Morning: Reveling in Dubai Yacht Luxury

10:00 am: Touring the Yacht

A private yacht tour Dubai style doesn’t disappoint. Each corner is beautifully crafted, exuding opulence.

11:00 am: Brunch Aboard

Offered by most yacht rental Dubai services, a gourmet brunch is served. The yacht rental Dubai price is worth every bite.

Afternoon: Watersports and Leisure with Dubai Yacht

12:00 pm: Jet Skiing

Most yacht hire Dubai Marina packages include thrilling watersports. First up, jet skiing!

1:30 pm: Sunbathing and Relaxation

Luxury yacht Dubai decks are perfect for sunbathing. The gentle Arabian sun warms the skin.

Late Afternoon: Dive into the Blue

3:00 pm: Snorkeling

The clear Dubai waters beckon. Snorkeling gear is provided by the yacht company in Dubai.

4:30 pm: Afternoon Tea with a View

With the yacht dubai marina as the backdrop, afternoon tea is a lavish affair.

Evening: Dubai’s Skyline and Party

6:00 pm: Viewing the Sunset

As the sun sets, the luxury yacht rental Dubai experience takes a romantic turn.

7:00 pm: Dinner Under the Stars

Opt for yacht rental Dubai with dinner. A gourmet meal under the stars? Absolutely divine.

8:30 pm: Dance the Night Away

Party yacht rental Dubai ensures an onboard DJ. Dancing on a yacht? Unforgettable.

Night: Reflections and Rest

10:00 pm: Stargazing

Laid on the deck, the stars shine brilliantly. The yacht dubai price feels worth it for moments like these.

11:00 pm: Retire in Luxury

Private yacht rental in Dubai cabins are plush and cozy. A peaceful night’s sleep is guaranteed.

Conclusion: A Day to Remember

A day on a Dubai yacht offers unparalleled luxury and experiences. Whether you choose a private yacht charter in Dubai, rent a boat from Dubai Marina, or host a yacht birthday party in Dubai, you’ll create unforgettable memories. If you want to rent a luxury yacht or explore “my cruises” for luxury yacht rentals in Dubai, the city makes every nautical dream come true.

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• Digital edition

Moody DS48 review: We sail this new yacht across the English Channel to see if she has what it takes

• Theo Stocker
• October 18, 2024

Can a boat built for long-term, long-distance cruising and offering one-level living still deliver an enjoyable sailing experience? Theo Stocker sets sail across the English Channel to find out

Product Overview

• Single-level living works well | Engaging and fun to sail | Extremely comfortable accommodation
• Enclosed cockpit may not appeal to all | High price tag | Lacks stowage for small items in the cockpit

Price as reviewed:

High topsides, muscular bow sections and a formidable deck house make the Moody DS48 an imposing sight, even standing alongside her on the pontoon. Point her bows towards the open sea, set all 165m2 of her canvas and with 21 tonnes of boat in full motion, she becomes even more formidable.

Most boats these days aim to be lighter, faster and more open, but that doesn’t necessarily result in better seaboats or more comfortable passage-making. Not the Moody DS48, however. From the moment you scale her boarding ladder (there are steps which fold out from the solid guardrails to help surmount her deep bulwarks), and set foot on her recessed sidedecks, this is a boat that you are in, rather than on.

When it comes to boat tests, the Solent is normally an ideal test ground; sheltered enough to play in, but with strong tides and a decent fetch that can kick up a steep chop. I often find myself wishing, however, that we could just keep on sailing for the horizon. When it came to testing the new Moody DS48, designed to be a long-distance voyage maker, we decided that nothing but a Channel crossing would do.

The cockpit, on the same level as the saloon, is deep and well sheltered. Here, the canvas canopy has been opened. Photo: Richard Langdon

So it was that I found myself on the pontoon one Monday morning in July, climbing aboard with Phil and Adam from Inspiration Marine, Peter, Phil’s dad who had volunteered as navigator, and Richard our photographer. We’d decided that dinner in Alderney would be really rather jolly, and with a booking for 2000 at the Braye Beach Hotel, it was time to get going.

Now, with a length of 48ft and all but 3ft of that at the waterline, boat speed promised to be fairly good, though I wasn’t sure what to expect from her sailing performance. Moody has continued its long association with Bill Dixon, who has a reputation for drawing seaworthy, high volume hulls with a good turn of speed.

As Simon Coles, senior designer, production yachts at Dixon Yacht Design explained, ‘The Moody DS48 is really an evolution of the Deck Saloon range, which started in 2007 with the DS45. Alongside the 41, the 48 is really version two of the concept.

The helm is responsive and the boat engaging to sail. Photo: Richard Langdon

‘We set out to draw a boat that maximised the inside-outside feeling of single-level living, while handling the extra displacement from all the kit people want with them on a world-cruising boat. At the same time, she needed to be a boat that sailed well and handled a wide range of conditions.

‘The hull shape aft has been refined to cope with more displacement, without dragging the transom, while maximising waterline length. She’s also got a relatively deep forefoot, though it’s not quite a vee, to make her more sea-kindly, and buoyancy has been distributed carefully to maximise stability, avoiding unbalanced shapes when heeled. It helps that she has a good ballast ratio and a very low centre of gravity.’

A self-tacking jib and furling mainsail make sail handling a doddle. Cruising laminate sails hold their shape much better for driving a boat of this displacement. Photo: Richard Langdon

Heading south

Slipping Lymington, we were soon in the grip of a strong ebb, whipping us out past the Needles with little more than 5 knots of true wind from the south-east, but thanks to the 150hp Yanmar, we were making more than 9 knots over the ground.

Turbulent water closed in on either side until we were spat out over the Bridge at the end of the Needles channel. Clear of the Wight, we had closer to 10 knots from the south east letting us shape a course of 204º straight for Alderney. All being well, the tide would slosh us west, then east, before plonking us just outside Braye spot-on slack water.

With a lovely fetch ahead of us, the optional 87m2 overlapping genoa set beautifully, giving useful extra drive compared to the self-tacking jib, while being more versatile than a Code Zero. As with most boats equipped with a self-tacking jib, the mast is well forwards, the mainsail large and the boom long. This boat had in-mast furling main with full vertical battens in cruising laminate.

Article continues below…

As the breeze built, boat speed climbed from 6 knots towards 8 knots, even touching 9.5 knots over the ground with a knot or so of tide helping us along.

We romped along in a most stately manner across a magnanimously flat English Channel, the wind and tide in unusual harmony. Steadily, however, the clouds closed in and the first rain squall enveloped us, picking the wind up to 20 knots and drenching us in the process. We swapped from genoa to self-tacker and continued as we were, on an almost entirely even keel. While those handling sails got a bit wet, the canopy afforded some shelter at the wheel, and complete shelter for those cowering in the cockpit.

The rest of the crew could keep a lookout from the warm and dry of the deck saloon, while the inverter ran the Nespresso machine and toaster. The other benefit of the large coachroof is that it offers enough real estate for the optional 800W of solar panels that this boat was fitted with.

Navigate from the port saloon table, or lower it to become a sea berth. Photo: Richard Langdon

Taking it easy

Sail handling is easily done, with a powered winch either side (Lewmar 65EST), and a second manual 55ST winch (powered is an option). Each wheel pedestal has duplicate switches for the mainsail furler, genoa furler, and the two powered winches, so that sails can be furled, unfurled and sheeted without leaving the wheel.

The winches sit atop the cockpit coamings, so can be handled from in the cockpit, or from standing on the sidedecks, though the overhanging canopy slightly obstructs working the winch when standing on the sidedeck. The only thing we actually picked up a winch handle for in the entire trip, was to add backstay tension to the 9/10ths, three-spreader fractional rig to deal with a bit of forestay sag when the jib was sheeted in hard.

The breeze was far from settled, requiring frequent adjustments to the sailplan to keep us powered up, and as we hit the east-going traffic emerging from the Casquets TSS, another squall brought the visibility below a mile and the wind up to 35 knots, giving us 42 knots over the deck.

Aft of the saloon seating to starboard is a large and practical galley with fridge, double sink and three-burner gas oven, as well as a drawer dishwasher bottom left. The inverter or generator can run electrical appliances too. Photo: Richard Langdon

Two button-pushes left us with a scrap of main and two thirds of the jib. As the chop built, this lacked a little power to keep us going, but we were comfortable and still making progress of six knots or so. It also gave us the chance to sample how well the boat handled waves – nothing huge but enough to send spray flying over the bow. Occasional steeper waves hit the bow with a thud, but the boat ploughed on unperturbed.

By the time we’d dodged some shipping, the wind was on the nose and Alderney was on the horizon. Not wanting a protracted beat (dinner was waiting, after all), the jib was furled away and the optional larger 150hp Yanmar engine went on, drinking 7.5-8 litres of diesel an hour at 2,100rpm while the Gori overdrive prop helped us motor-sail at 8 knots boat speed.

Twin singles or a double are an option in the ‘VIP’ guest cabin to starboard. Photo: Richard Langdon

Time for dinner

Toasting our arrival in sunshine, we hailed the water taxi, though had we had a tender in the garage (up to 2.8m), we could have swung it out on the integral davit arm. Dinner ashore was everything we had hoped it would be – the seabass was delicious and I’m told the steak was superb – and we fell into bed sated and satisfied, aware that tomorrow promised rather punchier weather.

I was given the honour of the master cabin in the bow, where a large island berth of over 2m long and 1.87m wide sits on the centreline, enjoying views out of the hull windows, ventilated and lit by opening hatches in the coachroof and deck. Standing, there’s palatial amounts of space to move around, without feeling too exposed at sea, and stowage has been fitted into every available space, with three wardrobes, and numerous smaller lockers and drawers. The en suite heads has a separate shower compartment, more locker space and an electric-flush toilet. It felt more like a hotel than a boat.

Massive headroom and a huge bed make the master cabin extremely comfortable. There’s no shortage of stowage either. Photo: Richard Langdon

Not that any of my crewmates were slumming it. Phil and his dad Peter were sharing the VIP twin cabin on starboard, where two generous singles have their own large en suite toilet and separate shower, hull window and ventilation hatch in the sidedeck. Richard got the double to port, with access to the day heads and shower – essentially his en suite. This cabin alternatively can be a bunk cabin, or a utility space, with or without the third heads compartment, which would become more stowage space. Adam, being the youngest, had to make do with the large double in the saloon, made by lowering the table and adding an infill cushion.

Heading for home

We woke to a strong, gusty southwesterly that would be rubbing the tide up the wrong way for most of the crossing home. It wasn’t long until we were under way with most of the genoa out and a partially reefed main in a solid Force 5. Before long, we’d furled more of the genoa away and were broad reaching in 20-26 knots of wind at 7.5 to 9 knots through the water.

The port cabin can be a double, bunk room, or utility space, with or without a heads. Photo: Richard Langdon

With the short, steep seas building to 2-3 metres with breaking crests, the autopilot was working hard, and once or twice let the boat round up when things got too much – some time spent adjusting the settings would probably correct this.

Having taken the steering in hand, it soon turned into a competition to see who could get the highest speed and skipper Phil held the record of 12.3 knots for almost the whole crossing, pipped only in the closing miles by a lucky surge with yours truly at the helm, nudging 12.6 knots. In flatter water back inside the Solent, a maximum speed of 9.3 knots, close reaching in 12 knots of true breeze, is a truer reflection of the boat’s speed potential.

Rough weather test

The rough weather certainly gave us a good insight into what the boat is really like to helm and sail, compared to a sail in flat water. As naval architect Simon Coles had said, ‘A deep single rudder gives her plenty of grip, while making her easier to manoeuvre and more responsive on the helm. Clearly, with her displacement, she feels like a larger boat to helm than a more lightweight cruising boat of similar length.’

Unfurl the genoa to find another gear when off the wind. Photo: Richard Langdon

This was certainly my experience. There was no limit of grip and in flat water she would happily bear away with full sail pinned in hard. Only once, when a breaking wave caught her stern did she round up, though not badly. She is, however, a more physical boat to helm in these conditions on a broad reach than a lighter boat might be. The plus side is that despite her substantial displacement, this boat is still fun to sail and the helm is responsive enough to reward properly trimmed sails and to keep her in the groove upwind by feel.

In the conditions, the true value of the deck saloon was clear. The crew distributed themselves around the boat – the stern seats made a great place from which to helm or to view the action, though I’d have liked some armrests amidships to break up the wide stretch of flat seat.

The deep cockpit felt brilliantly secure and offered seamless connection with the saloon and galley. Beside the full-height sliding door, a slide-down window-cum-serving hatch meant that a steady stream of food and hot drinks could be passed straight out from the oven to those on deck. The only thing lacking, at least in wet conditions, was somewhere to hang dripping foulies and lifejackets when coming inside.

Making life comfortable

There was space for anyone wanting a kip on the leeward cushions of the saloon (the leeward cockpit seat was the other prime spot), and for the navigator to work his art from the table to port. Even as the spray flew, heel stayed mostly between 10-20º, or less further off the wind. The saloon, not really ‘below decks’, remained light, warm and supremely comfortable, while offering all-round views to make watch-keeping in shelter entirely feasible.

This, combined with the boat’s steady motion, made a potentially gruelling Channel crossing into an exciting but entirely manageable day-sail. The impressive new Moody DS48 is a boat that takes the brunt of the weather so you don’t have to, making rough conditions feel much more pleasant.

Deep bulwarks and solid guardrails take you forwards securely. Photo: Richard Langdon

Better views

Our test boat layout had a dual-purpose table to port. From the aft seat, you look forwards, with VHF radio, autopilot and throttle controls immediately to hand, with space to wield a pair of dividers on a paper chart on the table in front of you.

If you’re going to be doing serious passage-making, you might be tempted to opt for the dedicated navigation station positioned right forwards, close to the windscreen. This gives better all-round views while offering more space for chart stowage and for instruments, making for a properly useful space, though you lose a possible sea berth and two seats for guests at dinner.

Maximum beam for much of the boat’s length helps to balance the heeled hull shape, keeping the helm light. Photo: Richard Langdon

In either configuration, I would have liked an additional pair of hatches at the forward corners of the coachroof to make it easier to look up at the sails, as well as aiding ventilation, though it didn’t get hot enough to test this on our trip.

Below the cabin sole, the larger 150hp Yanmar, upgraded from the 110hp fitted easily into the engine compartment alongside a generator, double fuel polishers, inverter, air conditioning and diesel heating.

Moving aft, the two cockpit lockers are cavernous, needing steps to get all the way down into them. These house the steering gear and autopilot – it’s an option to have two fitted for redundancy, one to each side. There’s also a washing machine, of course, plus more than enough space for bikes, tools, and whatever else you want to bring with you – which is why the hull was designed to handle a big displacement.

In the transom seat, you can either have a handy shallow locker, or a gas grill and fridge. Rope tails from the winches stow neatly in deep rope bins in the coaming, though I’d have liked some stowage for cups and binoculars, which is currently missing.

Hull lines may appear conservative, but the full-length soft chine is visible from this angle. Photo: Richard Langdon

Home to summer

The isles of Purbeck and Wight had been growing steadily larger on the horizon, and as the tide turned in our favour at last, we were swept past Hurst Castle and into the Solent. It felt like stepping out from Narnia’s wintry wardrobe back into summer. Warm sunshine, flat water and a fast sail took us back to the pontoon in Lymington.

The crossing had taken just eight and a half hours from Braye to Bridge off the Needles, and only half an hour more than that on the way out. In a boat like this, hopping across the Channel really was a nice little day-sail, safe in the knowledge that we’d be able to get back, pretty well regardless of whatever the weather threw at us.

The deck saloon has less impact on all-round visibility than might be expected. Photo: Richard Langdon

Moody DS48 specifications

Price as tested: £1,317,177 inc VAT LOA: 15.42m / 50ft 7in Hull length: 14.65m / 48ft 1in LWL: 13.83m / 45ft 4in Beam: 4.85m / 15ft 11in Draught: 2.15m 7ft 1in (Shoal 1.80m / 5ft 11in) Mast height: From WL 24.09m / 79ft 0in Displacement: 21,160kg / 46,650 lbs Ballast: 6,175kg / 13,614 lbs Sail area: (main + jib) 130.90m2 / 1,409 sq ft Bal/disp: 29.2% Disp/length: 187.5 SA/D Ratio: 17.4 Engine: Yanmar 110hp (150hp option) Transmission: Saildrive Water: 766 lit / 202 gal Fuel: 570 lit / 120 gal RCD Category: A-12 Designer: Dixon Yacht Design Builder: Moody / Hanse Yachts

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This is a boat quite unlike any other production cruising yacht I’ve sailed. She has a feeling of gravitas, purpose and assurance that few can match, in part down to her not-inconsiderable displacement. Incidentally, this is the same displacement as the Hallberg Rassy 50, though you’ll be paying an extra half a million quid for the Swedish boat. The Moody, however, far from feeling stolid or uninspiring to sail, is engaging and enjoyable to helm despite her weight. She also has the rare ability to make the prevailing conditions seem at least a force or two less than they are, turning what would be heavy weather in another boat into a decent breeze and a fun sail. I’d have liked extra hatches at the forward end of the coachroof and perhaps opening ports in the saloon windows. I also felt that the winches and lines are a little low and obstructed by the canopy when used from the side deck. Reversible winches would improve this. I loved the opening canopy, however, which provided great shelter.

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Boxing Superstar Ryan Garcia Set To Return In Dubai In 2025

Joseph hammond | 6 hours ago.

Boxing superstar Ryan Garcia has announced his return to the ring in January, where he’ll face Jaber Zayani in an exhibition match in Dubai.

The promotional artwork for the fight reads: “Ryan Garcia featuring musical performance and a boxing event with Jaber Zayani.” The image includes a stylized drawing of Garcia against the backdrop of Dubai’s skyline. Zayani responded to the post on social media seeming to confirm the fight was indeed on.

Garcia, whose professional record stands at 23-1 (19 KOs), revealed on his Instagram account that he would be fighting Jaber Zayani of France in this upcoming match. Garcia is technically banned from official boxing due to a failed PED test following his victory over Devon Haney in May.

Garcia has repeatedly stated his innocence following the failed test which robbed him of arguably the greatest victory of his career. He has stated that an Ashwagandha supplement resulted in the failed test. The New York State Athletic Commission banned him for a year from the sport due to the failed test.

 However, as an exhibition match, there are no legal restrictions preventing Garcia from participating.

Jaber Zayani, who holds an 18-0 record with 11 knockouts, is a 34-year-old lightweight and former sparring partner of Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao was rumored to face Zayani in an exhibition bout in 2022, which was reportedly to be contested with 8-ounce gloves.

Garcia has previously sought a match-up with Manny Pacquiao, but to date, the Filipino senator has declined to enter the ring with the “Victorville Bomber.”

Earlier this year, Garcia filmed a music video in Dubai, performing next to an orangutan in a luxury vehicle. The video has not yet been released. His January exhibition will also include a musical component, according to his social media post. This multimedia event seems part of Garcia’s strategy to expand his global appeal, especially in the Middle East market, where boxing and entertainment crossovers are gaining popularity. Garcia was also in the Middle East in May, attending the undisputed heavyweight match-up between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury in Riyadh.

Garcia’s ban from official boxing is set to end in April. It remains uncertain whether he will seek a rematch with Devin Haney, challenge Teofimo Lopez, or take on a tune-up fight afterward.