The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) of Abu Dhabi along with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Yas Marina has launched the Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi initiative, designed to attract superyacht owners and high-net-worth individuals to invest in and explore Abu Dhabi.
Superyacht owners and their families will be offered 10-year UAE Golden Visas, enabling long-term residency and access to Abu Dhabi’s thriving business ecosystem, luxury lifestyle and world-class marinas.
Through Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi, yacht owners can enjoy unparalleled access to the emirate’s investment opportunities, while fostering valuable business connections within the emirate’s economic landscape.
DCT-Abu Dhabi Director General for Tourism Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry says of the initiative: “The launch of Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi showcases DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to driving the emirate’s luxury tourism and yachting sector forward.” He adds, “By enhancing our superyacht offering with seamless access to our exceptional marinas and exclusive opportunities like the 10-year Golden Visa, we are adding to Abu Dhabi’s already significant appeal as a world-class yachting destination.
Under the terms of the initiative, Yas Marina and ADIO will act as the official nominating entities, selecting private yacht owners with vessels measuring 40m and above, as well as key executives in the yachting industry, such as: CEOs, major shareholders of yacht-building companies central yacht agents, yacht service providers, and yacht insurance providers. Immediate family members of nominees are also eligible for inclusion.
The growth of the luxury sector by creating innovative pathways that attract investment and high-profile visitors to the emirate is in line with the Tourism Strategy 2030.
The department will work alongside its strategic partners to ensure that superyacht owners and investors experience the best of Abu Dhabi’s blend of luxury, culture and world-class hospitality.
ADIO Executive Director Hareb Al Mheiri notes: “Beyond connecting superyacht owners to Abu Dhabi’s premier marinas and rich cultural experiences, this unique initiative will introduce high-net-worth individuals to the emirate’s exceptional investment opportunities and thriving business ecosystem.
This announcement follows DCT Abu Dhabi’s participation at the Monaco Yacht Show, where Abu Dhabi was showcased as a premier winter yachting destination. As part of the UAE Pavilion, DCT Abu Dhabi highlighted the emirate’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and expanding its luxury tourism offerings.