Articles Dubai: A Rising Power in the Global Yachting Scene

21 Jul 2025 | Industry Insight

Renowned for its iconic skyline and unmistakable sense of luxury, Dubai has long been considered one of the world’s most glamorous destinations.

It’s no wonder that this vibrant city is rapidly emerging as a leading hub in the global yachting scene, a development that inspired us to open our 15th international office on Dubai Harbour earlier this year.

With its arid desert climate offering just two main seasons — summer and winter — Dubai enjoys exceptional cruising conditions year-round. Abundant sunshine and crystal-clear waters make for an ideal yachting environment, contributing to the city’s growing appeal among yacht owners and charterers alike. The recent addition of state-of-the-art harbours and marinas has only accelerated this growth, with integrated marina living now highly sought after by residents and visitors drawn to Dubai’s unique waterfront lifestyle and thriving yacht charter market.

The Growth of the Dubai Yacht Market

Yacht Sales & Brokerage Trends

Dubai’s luxury yachting industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, supported by strong investment in infrastructure and a consistent rise in yacht ownership in Dubai. Since its completion in 2021, Dubai Harbour has become a focal point for the Arabian Gulf’s recreational boating scene, attracting both locals and international visitors and playing a vital role in expanding the region’s yachting ecosystem.

According to the Superyacht Times Report, owners in the Arabian Gulf states now account for 5.3% of the global superyacht fleet. There are currently more than 311 superyachts over 30 metres owned by individuals in these countries, 48% of which belong to UAE residents — an increase of 4% since 2023. This suggests stable growth within the Dubai superyacht industry, despite the effects of geopolitical factors which were predicted to take a toll on yacht sales and ownership within this area of the world.

Charter Demand

Dubai and the Gulf have become increasingly popular year-round yacht charter destinations, thanks to consistently warm weather and excellent water clarity. With temperatures in winter ranging from 14–25°C and frequent sunshine, Dubai continues to attract winter charter guests, particularly those seeking an alternative to the Mediterranean’s off-season.

This climate advantage has resulted in no clear ‘peak season’ for yacht charter in Dubai. Instead, demand tends to remain steady throughout the year. Yachtfolio reports that the number of yachts available for charter in Dubai this coming winter is approximately 32% higher than in summer. Charter bookings in the UAE increased by around 379% between 2019 and 2023, while charters in the wider Arabian Gulf rose by approximately 283% over the same period.

a boat on the water with a city in the background

The surge in private yacht charters among Dubai residents and international visitors has created a self-reinforcing cycle driving the region’s yacht charter industry forward. As more charters are booked, yacht owners are increasingly drawn to Dubai, confident in the steady demand. This growing presence of yachts, in turn, attracts even more charterers, fuelling continued expansion. Reflecting this trend, the number of yachts available for charter in Dubai has more than doubled since 2019, according to the 2024 MYBA Report.

Superyacht traffic in the Gulf has mirrored this growth, with visits increasing by 96% between 2017 and 2023. Currently, around 200 superyachts over 30 metres operate annually in the Arabian Gulf. While recent regional instability has caused some stabilisation, the long-term outlook remains positive, supported by ongoing infrastructure development and sustained demand across the UAE yacht industry.

Changing Wealth Demographics and UHNWI Migration

Influx of UHNWIs Relocating to Dubai

Dubai’s reputation for fine dining, luxury shopping, and world-class architecture continues to appeal to a global audience, particularly ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). Between 2022 and 2023, the population of UHNWIs in the Middle East grew by 6.2%, representing one of the highest growth rates globally. Projections indicate that this number will increase by 28.3% by 2028.

While Dubai’s lifestyle plays a central role in attracting UHNWIs, favourable financial conditions are equally influential. Dubai offers a tax-friendly environment, with no personal income tax, no tax on capital gains or investments, and strong privacy laws. These benefits make it an appealing choice for individuals seeking financial efficiency and long-term stability.

Robust banking systems and legal protections further enhance Dubai’s position as a secure base for wealth management. These factors, combined with the city’s evolving yachting infrastructure, continue to drive demand for high-end yachts and related services, including brokerage, charter and berthing solutions.

New Preferences Among Wealthy Buyers

As Dubai’s population of UHNWIs grows, so does interest in luxury yachting and chartering. There has also been a notable demographic shift, with younger clients increasingly entering the market.

Sebastian Dumitrescu, Group Director Dubai, who is based in the Ocean Independence Dubai office, explains: “Over the past few years, there’s been a noticeable shift in the buyer demographic. We’re seeing a growing number of younger clients entering the market, particularly with the influx of young UHNWIs relocating to Dubai. They’re drawn to the lifestyle here, and yachting is increasingly seen as a key part of that.”

This trend is likely driven by the increasing popularity of recreational yachting and the appeal of Dubai as a glamorous, opportunity-rich destination for ambitious young individuals.

A elegant family on a city break vacation enjoys the panoramic view over the skyline of Dubai, UAE

Waterfront Property Development and Marina Expansion

Dubai’s Marinas and Yacht Infrastructure

Dubai is home to a diverse and expanding network of ports, harbours and marinas, providing comprehensive facilities for yacht owners, captains and charter guests. These Dubai marinas offer convenient access to many of the city’s most iconic waterfront locations.

Opened in February 2021 following more than two years of development, Dubai Harbour has quickly become a major residential and lifestyle destination, with berthing for yachts of all sizes, including vessels up to 160m. It is also the site of the Ocean Independence Dubai office, which is ideally positioned within this growing maritime hub.

Port Rashid remains one of Dubai’s most established marinas and continues to be popular with local yacht owners. Formerly hindered by limited transport links, the area has benefitted from new roads and bridge connections, including the iconic Infinity Bridge, reducing travel time from the city centre from 80 minutes to just 12 and offering easy access to the marina and waterfront markets.

Held annually since 1992, the Dubai International Boat Show is the region’s most prestigious yachting event, drawing global attention with its impressive display of superyachts, watertoys and maritime innovation. Hosted at Dubai Harbour, the show is a major highlight for residents and international visitors alike. According to BOAT International, yacht visits to Dubai increased by 12.3% between 2023 and 2024, while the 2024 edition of the show expanded its exhibition space by 20% compared to the previous year — a clear sign of Dubai’s growing reputation as a global yachting destination.

Luxury Waterfront Property

Integrated marina living remains one of the most in-demand lifestyle offerings in Dubai. As a result, luxury waterfront property developments are expanding rapidly to meet demand. Dubai Creek Tower, set to complete this year at Dubai Creek Harbour, will feature more than 500 premium penthouses, apartments and townhouses. Emaar Beachfront — an ongoing development since 2018 — will eventually deliver 10,000 residences across 27 towers by 2027.

Other notable projects include Orla by Omniyat on Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Islands, a collection of five man-made islands offering distinct residential communities. With uninterrupted views of the Gulf and a sense of calm away from the city centre, these developments are helping to define Dubai’s growing identity as a leader in luxury waterfront living.

The Lifestyle Switch: Water as the New Playground

A Rising Maritime Culture

Yachting has become deeply embedded in Dubai’s recreational landscape. Many residents take advantage of the city’s favourable climate by regularly chartering yachts for day trips or weekend excursions — a level of usage made possible by year-round sunshine and minimal seasonal weather disruption.

In contrast to other destinations that experience defined charter seasons, Dubai’s consistent conditions mean that yacht owners can enjoy their vessels at any time of year. This uninterrupted access is a significant factor in the rising appeal of yacht ownership in Dubai and contributes directly to the market’s continued expansion.

Dubai as a Strategic Base for Yachting Businesses

Geographical Advantages

Dubai’s location between East and West makes it an ideal base for exploring a wide range of cruising regions, including both the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. This proximity opens up a wealth of itinerary opportunities for both private owners and charter clients.

Additionally, the city’s developing maritime infrastructure, combined with a well-established reputation for quality craftsmanship, has earned the UAE increasing recognition as a hub for yacht building, refit and service. Local expertise and attention to detail further enhance the appeal for owners seeking reliable, high-end results.

Business-Friendly Ecosystem

In recent years, Dubai has become a magnet for international businesses, drawn by the city’s tax advantages, business-friendly policies and well-regulated free zones. One of the most prominent is the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), a thriving international business hub where companies benefit from zero corporate tax and no import or export duties.

In 2023, the UAE introduced a new Maritime Law, replacing legislation dating back to 1891, which further supports yacht ownership and investment. The law includes provisions for modernised yacht registration, simplified ownership structures, and mortgage-backed purchases, while also enabling full foreign ownership of yachts within designated maritime free zones.

Dubai’s Future as a Global Yachting Powerhouse

Looking ahead, Dubai is well positioned to continue its rise as a major yachting destination. Year-round sunshine, an expanding network of world-class marinas, and a growing luxury lifestyle scene all point toward long-term growth.

Importantly, Dubai does not rely on the seasonal fluctuations that affect many traditional yachting hotspots. The city offers consistent cruising conditions, making it an attractive option for owners and charterers seeking flexibility.

Continued investment in infrastructure, legislative reform and tourism development is also supporting the market’s evolution. These efforts suggest that Dubai’s emergence as a global yachting destination is not a passing trend, but a carefully planned and well-supported transformation.

With strategic access to Europe, Asia and Africa, a favourable tax environment, and rising UHNWI migration, Dubai offers a compelling alternative to traditional yachting capitals. As the global charter calendar adapts to shifting travel patterns and growing demand for winter sun destinations, Dubai is perfectly placed to meet the needs of a new generation of yacht owners, guests and businesses.

So, could Dubai rival established yachting capitals like Monaco or Fort Lauderdale in the years to come? All signs point to yes. The momentum is already there, and with the right support and infrastructure continuing to fall into place, Dubai’s future as a global yachting powerhouse seems to be well within reach.

Need help or advice?

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