One Thousand and One Nights in Dubai

Some destinations have a certain reputation for attracting the yachting world’s great and good. Others offer the charm and originality typical to remote, unspoiled corners of the earth. Sailing in Dubai combines both of these features.

Check out our boats in Dubai

Despite its recent yachting credentials, Dubai has a long tradition in sailing. Take, for example, the emirate’s trademark dhow boats: traditional wooden sailing vessels roaming the Dubai creek all the way up to the Persian Gulf. There is also an annual offshore regatta from Dubai to Muscat for sailing aficionados.

Marinas in Dubai

As expected, Dubai is home to several large and modern marinas equipped with all amenities. A good option is IGY Anchor Marina in Palm Jumeirah, with 590 berths for yachts with a length between 10m and 30m. Equally good is the 300-berth marina of the Dubai International Marine Club, close to Le Meridien Mina Seyahi. It hosts the Dubai International Boat Show. Not surprisingly, you will find there some of the world’s most impressive super yachts.

Dubai is a popular tourist destination. Many visitors choose a boat ride to admire its impressive skyline from the water. If you opt for a bareboat yacht charter, you will need a licence to steer the boat. Leisure boats departing from Dubai must obtain a sailing permit, which you can get at all marinas.

What to see

Sailing in Dubai is a unique experience. The emirate of Dubai is famous for its unique geographical position, culture and architecture. Where else would you be able to view from the water the sail-shaped hotel Burj Al Arab Jumeirah? Or the majestic Burj Khalifa with the desert in the background?

With a yacht charter in Dubai, you can explore the famous Dubai Creek. It’s a narrow waterway that links the city to the Persian Gulf. Here, you’ll see small fishing boats sailing past luxury yachts. It’s a sight that epitomises Dubai’s unique blend of tradition and modern life. Following the canal, you’ll see graceful buildings such as the old Dubai Creek Tower and the Deira Twin Towers. From the Deira Corniche and Al Ras districts you can sail to Al Shindagha and the Dubai Creek Park.

Another option when sailing in Dubai is to visit the city of Muscat, Oman’s capital. It’s an important economic and cultural hub since time immemorial. Dock at the old port and visit the historic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the stunning Old Palace. If you book a yacht charter, you can also sail to Old Muscat, separated from the capital by mountains.

Sailing in Dubai is a great opportunity to visit the emirate of Abu Dhabi. You can dock at Yas Marina or the Emirates Palace Marina. Once there, visit Sheikh Zayed Mosque or the circuit of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Weather conditions for sailing in Dubai

Temperatures in Dubai range from 36°C in the summer months to 19°C in January. You can practically sail any time of the year in Dubai, as tides and currents are mild in the region. As for the winds, they are also mild. Exceptionally, strong shamals, northwestern winds, come from Iraq and Iran: these can be treacherous in the summer.