Arab Gulf states as the new Caribbean?

Yachting | 2026

Numerous marinas are rising across the Middle East, as the region positions itself as a winter destination and a real alternative to the Caribbean. For years the Caribbean has held sway with its turquoise water, steady trade winds, and mature support infrastructure. But now, modern marina networks are emerging where ancient culture meets bold architecture – offering yacht owners credible alternatives.

Sindalah welcomes its first guests after two years of construction. The resort offers a marina for 86 boats.

The Amaala port city project plans to house eight resorts, 39 hotels and space for up to 500,000 visitors annually.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt are investing heavily in ports, marinas, and luxury amenities – not just to match existing yacht havens, but to surpass them. A prime example is Sindalah, part of NEOM in Saudi Arabia: its marina provides 86 superyacht berths for vessels up to 50 metres. It recently became the first marina in the Kingdom to earn the prestigious 5-Gold Anchor accreditation. Sindalah mixes luxury villas, gourmet dining, upscale services, and breathtaking natural surroundings to deliver an unmatched experience.

The Neom project Jaumur will include 500 apartments, 700 luxury villas, two hotels and berths for superyachts.

The Dubai Harbour Residences offer modern apartments right on the water – urban living with a maritime flair.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan aims to add some 3,500 new yacht berths along its Red Sea coast, part of a broader push to develop maritime tourism. Meanwhile, projects like AMAALA or Shura Island seek to fuse extravagance, innovation, and lifestyle into destinations – not just marinas. Other nations are following suit. Egypt has introduced new regulations to support foreign yacht tourism, harmonize marina standards, streamline docking approvals, and simplify bureaucratic processes. Marinas in Hurghada and El Gouna are already offering modern berths, shops, restaurants and waterfront design. Oman is also catching up; several marina projects are in planning or under construction. A strong network is forming – one that’s aiming not to imitate the Caribbean, but to stand as its equal. For yacht owners seeking luxury, innovation, and less crowded seas, the Middle East is quickly becoming a destination to watch.

The waters surrounding Shura Island have a Caribbean feel, and the architecture blends seamlessly into the landscape. The island is expected to soon attract yacht owners and high-net-worth tourists.

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