The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy (DET), have launched “Dock and Dine,” an initiative that allows yacht owners, captains and crew members to gain access to services from 20 of Dubai’s marinas.
As part of the scheme introduced to boost yacht tourism in the Emirate, members are granted free moorage at the included properties, in addition to access to dining options at various restaurants within a 45-minute to one-hour proximity to the dock. Booking responses for restaurants, hotels and entertainment options are streamlined to happen between five minutes and an hour, with direct contact to the venues.
To facilitate the initiative, regulations have been harmonised and rolled out across the city, due to a collaboration between the government and the private sector.
Commenting on the initiative, Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said: “The Dock & Dine initiative represents the forward-thinking approach that has defined Dubai’s maritime development. With strong guidance from our visionary leadership and a spirit of close cooperation between government and industry partners, we have harmonised marina regulations and enhanced operational processes across the board. This not only improves the arrival experience for foreign-flagged vessels but also ensures every yacht guest enjoys streamlined access and world-class service,”
The initiative plans to improve the experience for yacht owners who visit Dubai during it’s peak winter season, which runs from October through April. Offering over 4,000 berthing options, the participating marinas include: Al Seef Marina, Bulgari Marina, Creek Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Islands Marina, Dubai Creek Marina, Dubai Harbour Marinas, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Jebel Ali Marina, Jewel of the Creek Marina, Jumeirah 1 Marina, Mina Rashid Marina, Marasi Bay Marina, Marsa Al Arab Marina, Palm Azure Jetty, Palm East Vista Mare Jetty, Palm Jumeirah Marina, Palm West Club Jetty, Port De La Mer Marina, Umm Suqeim 1 Marina, and Umm Suqeim 2 Marina.
“This initiative marks a pivotal moment in Dubai’s maritime journey and is a testament to visionary leadership that has transformed Dubai into a global yachting hub. By establishing convenient connections between our world-class marinas and dining experiences, we are enriching the wide-ranging value proposition that positions Dubai as the ideal base for international yacht tourism and a must-visit destination,” added Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM).