First-class professional opportunities, tax-free living, soaring super structures, and an outstanding quality of life. Who wouldn’t want to visit the UAE? But if you’re going to explore this Arabian paradise, do it in style. Do it on a yacht. While some of you may be familiar with one or two of the emirates on our list, some of them may be unknown to many of you. But with these exciting destinations on your itinerary, you’re guaranteed to have the adventure of a lifetime. So join us, as we discover the 5 best yachting destinations in the UAE.  

Dubai

A stunning and progressive city of over 3 million people, it may surprise you to know that only 15% of the population are Emirati. Due to its multi-cultural nature, English is widely spoken. Having started as a small fishing settlement in the 1800s, it is now a haven for yacht owners and holidaymakers.

One of the reasons that Dubai is the first choice of boating enthusiasts in the UAE, is its superb yachting infrastructure. A yacht rental in Dubai offers you the thrill of a lifetime, the chance to live your dreams in this billionaires’ playground. 

Ever imagined yourself basking in the sun on the deck of a superyacht?  This is the place to do it. Known for hot weather, glamorous living, and incredible skyscrapers, it’s also home to the Dubai International Boat Show. The next one takes place 1-5 March 2023 at the Dubai International Marine Club. 

Abu Dhabi

Aaaah…Abu Dhabi. An archipelago of islands and a significant piece of the UAE’s mainland, Abu Dhabi is fast becoming a tourist hotspot. Signs of wealth are everywhere. Luxury cars, top boutiques, fine dining, and art galleries are all to be found here. And of course, superyachts. 

Berth your yacht in Yas Marina and go see the sights. But unlike Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, where there are no charges, berthing costs in Abu Dhabi can be high. You won’t be disappointed though, with all these great reasons to visit Abu Dhabi. Yachting is only one of them. 

You’ll also get to explore magnificent coral reefs, discover amazing wildlife and see stunning mangrove forests. And if snorkeling and diving is your thing, you’ll be amazed by the Ras Ghanadah coral reef, the largest in the Gulf region.

Ras Al Khaimah

White sandy beaches, stark desert plains, and rocky cliffs all play their part beautifully in this wondrous theatre of nature. Situated in between the Arabian Gulf and the majestic Hajar Mountains, this emirate has a truly diverse landscape. 

Ras Al Khaimah has been an area of continuous human habitation for 7,000 years, and today is the UAE’s main commercial hub. But it is also a great destination for sailing enthusiasts. Even novice sailors can hone their skills at the helm in these shallow, tranquil waters.

And when it’s time to berth your yacht, head to Pier One. You’ll find the Al Hamra Yacht Clubhouse and several top-notch waterfront cafés and restaurants along the boardwalk overlooking the marina. The Codfather and Marina Muse are the best ones to visit for some socializing over great food. 

Sharjah

The UAE is synonymous with wealth and progress. Just up the coast from Dubai, you will discover the emirate of Sharjah. It too offers fantastic watersports and several world-class boating facilities. But when you go ashore in Sharjah, you’ll be amazed by the wealth of a different kind.

Situated to the east of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this is the 3rd largest city in the UAE and home to the Sharjah Safari. Located in the Al Bardi Reserve, it is the largest safari park outside of Africa. It has more than 50,000 animals from over a hundred African species, including several endangered species. 

Take some epic vacation pics of the beautifully recreated animal habitats and lake, or enjoy a live animal show. And then treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the cafes. If you’re traveling as a family, you might prefer to have a tasty picnic lunch. 

Fujairah

With so many things to do in the UAE, you’ll have just as much fun ashore as you do on your yacht. Located on the UAE’s east coast on the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah is not to be overlooked on your trip. 

Fujairah Harbour Club is one of the most popular marinas here, with lots to see and do nearby. With bars and restaurants as diverse as the Biker’s Cafe and RJJ’s German/Peruvian Bar & Grill, you are guaranteed to have a good time. 

But for a magical journey back into the mists of time, you simply must visit the Fujairah Museum. It houses archaeological treasures from as far back as the 6th millennium BC.