Dubai has attracted high-net-worth individuals by extending its prestigious Golden Visa program to yacht owners. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) recently announced that yacht owners are now eligible for long-term residency in the UAE, granting them a 10-year renewable visa.
This initiative aligns with the emirate’s goal of strengthening its position as a leading maritime hub and enhancing its luxury tourism industry. More details about this program will be unveiled at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025, set to take place from February 19 to 23 at Dubai Harbour.
What is Dubai’s Golden Visa for Yacht Owners?
The Golden Visa program provides long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. Now, with yacht owners included in this scheme, Dubai is making it even more appealing for luxury lifestyle enthusiasts and business leaders in the yachting industry.
This program offers exclusive benefits, such as:
- 10-year renewable residency for yacht owners
- No minimum stay requirement in the UAE
- Visa eligibility for immediate family members
- Opportunities to invest in maritime businesses
- Access to Dubai’s world-class marinas and luxury lifestyle
With this expansion, Dubai aims to attract more international yacht investors, boosting the local economy and further developing the marine tourism sector.
Dubai International Boat Show 2025: What to Expect
The Dubai International Boat Show 2025 is expected to be a major event for the global maritime community. Now in its 31st edition, the show will feature over 200 yachts from some of the most prestigious brands in the industry, such as Azimut, Gulf Craft, Ferretti, and Sunseeker.
Visitors can explore:
- Superyachts and luxury boats from international brands
- Exclusive product launches from top manufacturers
- Innovative marine technologies that are shaping the future
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors
Additionally, sustainability will be a key theme at this year’s show, with a dedicated Innovation Hub showcasing eco-friendly yachting solutions.
Abu Dhabi’s Similar Golden Visa Initiative for Yacht Owners
Dubai’s move follows a similar Golden Visa program introduced in Abu Dhabi in December last year. The ‘Golden Quay’ initiative attracts superyacht owners and maritime executives, offering them long-term residency and exclusive benefits.
In Abu Dhabi, eligibility extends to:
- Owners of yachts measuring 40 meters or more
- CEOs and major shareholders of yacht-building companies
- Central yacht agents and service providers
- Yacht insurance providers
With both Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering long-term visas to yacht owners, the UAE is strengthening its global appeal as a premier destination for the luxury maritime sector.
How This Impacts the UAE’s Maritime and Luxury Tourism Industry
By offering 10-year residency visas to yacht owners, Dubai is setting a new benchmark for maritime investment opportunities. The program is expected to:
- Attract more high-net-worth individuals to the UAE
- Boost the local maritime industry and luxury tourism sector
- Encourage international investments in yacht-related businesses
- Position Dubai as a world-class yachting and waterfront destination
As the UAE continues to enhance its business-friendly policies, this move further cements its reputation as a hub for luxury living and investment.
Dubai’s Golden Visa for yacht owners is a game-changer for the maritime sector, offering long-term stability and lucrative investment opportunities. As details unfold at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025, yacht owners, industry professionals, and investors are encouraged to explore how they can benefit from this initiative.
For those interested in luxury lifestyle investments and long-term residency in the UAE, now is the perfect time to set sail for Dubai.
Read more:
- Dubai’s RTA opens 40 air-conditioned rest stops for delivery riders
- The Script to Headline Dubai’s Biggest St. Patrick’s Day Bash
For the latest news, local updates, and exciting things to do in Dubai and the UAE, follow Social Kandura on social media. Stay informed and never miss out on important updates!
