Abu Dhabi has launched the Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Yas Marina, operated by Yas Asset Management, a subsidiary of Miral. This initiative aims to attract superyacht owners and high-net-worth individuals to invest in and explore Abu Dhabi.
The program allows eligible yacht owners to apply for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, granting them long-term residency and access to Abu Dhabi’s thriving business ecosystem, luxury lifestyle, and premier marinas. It also offers yacht owners exclusive access to the emirate’s investment opportunities while fostering important business connections within Abu Dhabi’s dynamic economic landscape.
His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, highlighted that the initiative reflects the emirate’s commitment to strengthening its luxury tourism and yachting sectors. He stated, “The Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi initiative adds to Abu Dhabi’s significant appeal as a world-class yachting destination. By offering seamless access to our marinas and the 10-year Golden Visa, we are creating innovative pathways to attract high-profile visitors and investment, aligning with our Tourism Strategy 2030.”
Under the initiative, Yas Marina and ADIO will nominate yacht owners with vessels measuring 40 meters and above, as well as prominent figures in the yachting industry, including CEOs, major shareholders of yacht-building companies, yacht agents, service providers, and insurance companies. Immediate family members of nominees will also be eligible for the visa.
DCT Abu Dhabi will promote the initiative across key tourism markets, providing tailored itineraries and tourism-related support to nominees. The department will collaborate with partners to ensure that superyacht owners and investors experience the best of Abu Dhabi’s luxury, culture, and hospitality.
His Excellency Hareb Al Mheiri, Executive Director of ADIO, emphasized the initiative’s role in connecting high-net-worth individuals to Abu Dhabi’s premier marinas and investment opportunities. He stated, “The Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi initiative will introduce investors to the emirate’s business ecosystem and support the city’s vision for sustainable tourism growth.”
Jonathan Brown, Chief Portfolio Officer at Miral, expressed excitement about the initiative’s potential to position Abu Dhabi as a top yachting destination. He noted, “Yas Marina, with its ability to accommodate superyachts and its world-class facilities, will play a key role in the success of the Golden Quay initiative, further solidifying Yas as a leading global destination for entertainment and leisure.”
This announcement follows DCT Abu Dhabi’s participation in the Monaco Yacht Show, where the emirate was showcased as a premier winter yachting destination. DCT Abu Dhabi continues to expand its luxury tourism offerings, fostering global partnerships and promoting Abu Dhabi’s position in the global yachting industry.
