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The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in partnership with Yas Marina and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), has launched the Golden Quay initiative to attract high-net-worth individuals and superyacht owners to the UAE. This program offers a 10-year UAE Golden Visa to eligible yacht owners, enabling long-term residency and access to Abu Dhabi’s luxury lifestyle, thriving business ecosystem, and world-class marinas.
Golden Visa holders can benefit from enhanced stability, security, and the freedom to invest and grow their careers without requiring local sponsorship. Immediate family members of visa holders are also eligible, providing a comprehensive lifestyle package for expatriates seeking to expand their opportunities in Abu Dhabi.
The initiative targets yacht owners with vessels over 40 meters and key executives in the yachting industry, including CEOs, shareholders of yacht-building companies, and service providers. Yas Marina and ADIO serve as official nominators for the program.
Nominees begin their journey with an invitation email from Yas Marina. Upon consenting, their information is submitted to ADIO, which arranges Golden Visa processing and tailored business meetings based on the individual’s industry and preferences. The itinerary includes introductions to Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural offerings and broad range of investment opportunities, fostering valuable business connections.
The program aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, supporting the growth of the luxury sector while promoting the emirate as a premier yachting destination. DCT Abu Dhabi and its partners actively market the initiative globally to attract high-profile visitors and investors.
As an award-winning marina, Yas Marina plays a central role in the initiative, offering state-of-the-art facilities for superyachts, alongside world-class dining and leisure experiences. Extending Golden Visas to yacht owners and executives positions Yas Marina as a leading destination for luxury and entertainment and home to the iconic F1 Circuit with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Participation does not require a berthing agreement at Yas Marina. The process includes two main steps: nomination by Yas Marina and visa issuance through the Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship. ADIO ensures a smooth experience by facilitating meetings with Abu Dhabi’s business ecosystem and overseeing the visa process.
The streamlined approach eliminates unnecessary complexities, allowing applicants to focus on exploring the opportunities Abu Dhabi offers. With dedicated support from Yas Marina and ADIO, participants can smoothly navigate the nomination and application process, ensuring a hassle-free path to securing their Golden Visa.
The Golden Quay initiative was spotlighted at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show, where Abu Dhabi was promoted as a premier winter yachting destination. By extending Golden Visas to the yachting community, Abu Dhabi reinforces its position as a key hub for luxury tourism, aligning with its vision for sustainable growth and global partnerships.
By fostering innovation and collaboration within the yachting sector, Abu Dhabi continues to elevate its profile on the international stage, driving economic growth and enhancing its appeal to discerning travelers and investors alike.
As an independent Swiss financial advisor and global wealth planner, Alpen Partners International goes beyond traditional wealth management to deliver bespoke solutions tailored to the needs of internationally minded clients. Our services include expert guidance on international residency and investment opportunities, such as Abu Dhabi’s prestigious Golden Visa program. We help American clients expand their horizons to unlock new global possibilities.
We specialize in the complexities of cross-border financial planning, catering to the unique needs of globally mobile individuals. From navigating exclusive residency programs to crafting personalized strategies that align with both financial and lifestyle aspirations, our expertise is geared toward a seamless and efficient experience. Whether securing long-term residency, exploring lucrative investment opportunities, or optimizing global tax structures, we are dedicated to helping our American clients thrive in today’s dynamic, interconnected world.
