The UAE is currently one of the world’s most popular coastal destinations, with a strong focus on high-end beach resorts, five-star hotels and marine-based activities. Unsurprisingly, given the UAE’s high concentration of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, the country plays a pivotal role in the superyacht industry – three of the world’s five largest private vessels are registered here; the largest of which is the Azzam at 180 metres, owned by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. As a result, interest in the latest industry developments is considerable. Read on to discover the future of superyachts and what their owners can expect.
The Allure of the Superyacht
Yachts have long been associated with prestige, providing ultra-high-net-worth individuals with a distinctive way to enjoy leisure at sea. This societal marker was increased exponentially in the early twentieth century, with the birth of the superyacht.
Since then, private yachts have increased in both size and performance, from around 30 metres in the early 1900s to more than 150 metres today. The modern superyacht can be built to the specifications of individuals and include exclusive features like multiple decks, a helicopter landing platform, multiple guest cabins and a range of upscale lifestyle amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, massage rooms, salons, and world-class galleys. The most impressive private yachts can also feature cinemas, multiple living spaces, libraries and bar rooms.
It is no wonder then, that superyachts are among the world’s most sought-after commodities for the globe’s ultra-high-net-worth community, who value the opportunity to stay docked in distinction.
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Eco-friendly Superyachts
Like many industries, the world of superyachts is continually evolving. As global attention shifts toward sustainability, private yacht design is keeping pace with innovative, eco-friendly models. Once synonymous solely with opulence, the industry is now at the forefront of environmentally conscious luxury, responding to growing demand for vessels that minimise their impact on the world’s oceans.
Standout contemporary models such as the 60 Sunreef Power Eco, Silent 60, Azimut Seadeck 6, and Greenline 58 Fly are continually pushing the boundaries of possibility on the open ocean. Solar-powered vessels are becoming increasingly popular, proving that yachting can actually be as self-sufficient as it is low-maintenance.
Hybrid systems like the one used on the Azimut Seadeck 6 combine traditional combustion engines with electric motors. This allows around four hours of electric navigation, after which the hybrid system kicks in to assist while the batteries recharge. This exquisite vessel also boasts near-silent propulsion systems – a clear step towards the future of upscale yachting.
Blending modern tech with long-range efficiency, the Greenline 58 Fly offers spacious interiors while not compromising on sustainability. With a maximum range of 1,500 nautical miles at 7 knots, the vessel features home-like liveability, quiet operation, low emissions and generous solar output.
Other revolutionary features include things like smart energy management systems, lightweight composite construction, stronger and more efficient batteries and advanced electric propulsion systems.
As awareness of the need for clean energy grows, companies such as Lurssen are offering green hydrogen yachts. Their strategic partnership with maritime fuel cell expert Freudenberg is just one of the ways in which they are advancing the development of sustainable propulsion technologies for the next generation of environmentally conscious superyachts.
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Submersible Superyachts
Seen by some as the future of yachting, submersible superyachts are set to significantly shake up the industry. Companies such as the Austria-based Migaloo – whose name is derived from the famously rare albino humpback whale sighted off Australia’s east coast in the 90s – are conceptualising a range of submersible vessels, all designed to enhance the prestige and privacy of superyacht owners. Migaloo CEO Christian Gumpold believes these futuristic designs will “effectively address the rising and new needs of owners and that they (will) represent the future of yachting for ultra high net worth individuals.’’
Migaloo yachts will incorporate features such as individualisation, privacy, and sustainability. The initial prototype is known as the Migaloo M5, a 165-metre private submersible superyacht which will boast a reported 15,000-kilometre range, in addition to an approximate depth capability of 250 metres. The submersible will also be equipped with sonar, free flooding space, a helicopter hangar, a midget submarine hangar and a pressure hull designed to blow water out of ballast tanks to assist with buoyancy when returning to the surface.
Offering holistic services, including design supervision and approval, Migaloo provides an integrated process that allows each prospective owner to see their vision reflected in every detail of their submersible superyacht.
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The Role of the UAE in the Superyacht Market
Given the UAE’s prominence in the superyacht market, the country is at the very forefront of infrastructure and facilities, ensuring peace of mind for residents who own one of these sizeable vessels.
The prestigious Dubai International Boat Show – just an hour’s drive from Abu Dhabi – functions as a global luxury yacht and lifestyle show. Taking place each spring in Dubai Harbour, the show welcomes a who’s who of the yachting industry – including the biggest shipyards, designers and brokers from around the world – where the latest innovations and developments in the market can be marvelled at. This event highlights the role the UAE plays for ultra-high-net-worth individuals who are seeking bespoke vessels and sophisticated experiences.
Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are also replete with marinas and docking facilities. Dubai Marina, Yas Marina and Port Rashid offer state-of-the-art docking, maintenance and concierge services, while Dubai Harbour stands as the largest yacht marina in the MENA region, boasting facilities capable of handling vessels up to 160 metres in length.
Simplified registration processes for yacht owners, an attractive tax climate, freezone benefits and specialised marine services all combine to place the UAE at the forefront of the superyacht industry.
Few symbols capture luxury and prestige quite like a superyacht. In the years ahead, evolving values are expected to influence ownership, with many seeking ways in which they can align their lifestyle with greater environmental responsibility. Innovations such as eco-friendly propulsion systems and even submersible designs illustrate what the future of yachting may hold, with the UAE positioned at the forefront of this transformation.
