In December 2024, The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Yas Marina, operated by Yas Asset Management, a subsidiary of Miral, launched the Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi initiative.
The initiative aims to attract superyacht owners and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to invest in and explore Abu Dhabi.
The initiative provides eligible yacht owners with the opportunity to be nominated for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa. This allows long-term residency and access to Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem, marinas and investment opportunities.
Abu Dhabi launches Golden Quay Initiative to attract superyacht owners
“The launch of Golden Quay to Abu Dhabi showcases DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to driving the emirate’s luxury tourism and yachting sector forward. By enhancing our superyacht offering with seamless access to our exceptional marinas and exclusive opportunities like the 10-year Golden Visa, we are adding to Abu Dhabi’s already significant appeal as a world-class yachting destination. We continue to support the growth of the luxury sector by creating innovative pathways that attract investment and high-profile visitors to the emirate, in line with our Tourism Strategy 2030,” Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi said in a statement.
Under the terms of the initiative, Yas Marina and ADIO will act as the official nominating entities.
They will select private yacht owners with vessels measuring 40 metres and above, as well as key executives in the yachting industry, including CEOs, major shareholders of yacht-building companies, central yacht agents, yacht service providers, and yacht insurance providers. Immediate family members of nominees are also eligible for inclusion.
DCT Abu Dhabi will promote the initiative across key tourism markets, support partners with tailored itineraries and provide tourism-related assistance during nominee visits.
The department will work with strategic partners to ensure superyacht owners and investors experience Abu Dhabi’s offerings.
In addition, prospective nominees will receive an introductory email from Yas Marina.
Following the submission of a completed consent form, Yas Marina will forward the nominee’s information to ADIO for Golden Visa processing.
Based on the nominee’s preferences and industry, tailored business meetings and itineraries will be arranged. A berthing agreement at Yas Marina is not a requirement for eligibility under the initiative.
DCT Abu Dhabi, as the tourism authority, will work with stakeholders to promote the initiative in various markets and oversee its tourism aspects.
Golden Visa holders receive long-term residency benefits, including stability and security, allowing them to invest and build careers in the UAE without requiring a local sponsor.
How to apply for UAE Golden Visa under the Golden Quay Initiative
The initiative follows a two-step process. First, nominees apply for the Golden Visa nomination through Yas Marina.
Once approved, the applicant proceeds with Golden Visa issuance through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security-ICP’s smart services or an accredited service centre.
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