Abu Dhabi Launches “Super Yacht Golden Visa”

Abu Dhabi has launched the Golden Quay initiative, its latest addition to the UAE Golden Visa program, creating a specialized pathway for a specific niche of high-net-worth individuals: Owners of 40 meters or more superyachts.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), and Yas Marina have created the Golden Quay initiative under the UAE Golden Visa program, offering 10-year renewable residency permits through official nominations by Yas Marina and ADIO.

DCT Abu Dhabi Director General for Tourism Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry says the initiative will enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as “a world-class yachting destination” through seamless marina access and exclusive visa opportunities.

The Golden Quay encompasses two main applicant categories: Private yacht owners with vessels over 40 meters and key maritime industry figures.

Eligible industry executives include CEOs, major shareholders of yacht-building companies, central yacht agents, yacht service providers, and yacht insurance providers.

Nominees can include their immediate family members.

This asset-based pathway will “introduce high-net-worth individuals to the emirate’s exceptional investment opportunities and thriving business ecosystem,” ADIO Executive Director Hareb Al Mheiri notes.

EC Holdings CEO Philippe May had previously highlighted the UAE’s rationale behind its Golden Visa program. “They let Golden Visa holders come and spend money,” he notes, a strategy now extending to the luxury maritime sector through the Golden Quay initiative.

DCT Abu Dhabi will provide successful applicants with tourism support and tailored itineraries, along with access to the emirate’s premier marina facilities and business ecosystem.

The Golden Quay adds to the UAE’s growing list of Golden Visa pathways, which already includes specialized categories for investors, scientists, academics, creative professionals, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline healthcare workers.

This new category marks the first Golden Visa based on an asset class within the luxury maritime sector.

The initiative is open, and Yas Marina and ADIO will review applications as official nominating entities.