What was the main theme of the Dubai Leisure Yachting Conference 2025?

The conference was held under the theme “The New Nautical Code: Innovation, Influence, and Experience.” It focused on sustainability, emerging technologies, evolving market trends, and strategies to attract a new generation of yacht owners.

Who were the key speakers and what insights did they share?

Keynote speakers included H.E. Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, and Alex Nicholl, Vice President of New Industries at the Dubai World Trade Centre. They emphasized Dubai’s rapid marina expansion to 52,000 berths and its growing status as a global yachting hub, supported by world-class infrastructure and luxury developments.

How are privacy and speed influencing modern yacht transactions?

The conference revealed that off-market yacht transactions have risen by 20%, driven by the demand for privacy, limited availability of high-end yachts, and faster sales cycles. According to Mohamed Al Zaabi of Royal Yachts UAE, brokers play a crucial role in connecting elite buyers with exclusive sellers in this evolving market.

What technological innovations are shaping the maritime industry?

Technology is revolutionizing the industry through AI-powered navigation, automation, and sustainable yacht design. Nicolas Lapp of Sunreef Yachts highlighted the rise of eco-friendly catamarans and innovations like automated sail plans and AI-calculated routes, which enhance efficiency and reduce energy use.

How is the profile of luxury yacht owners changing?

According to Jad Zakkak Migliorini of Azimut Yachts, today’s ultra-high-net-worth yacht owners are younger (aged 40–45) and value immersive, emotional experiences over traditional luxury or size. This shift is driving the industry toward personalized, experience-driven yachting.

Dubai Leisure Yachting Conference 2025 Highlights Innovation

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The Annual Dubai Boat Show Leisure Yachting Conference 2025 convened over 300 global maritime professionals under the theme ‘The New Nautical Code: Innovation, Influence, and Experience’. Held at The Westin Mina Seyahi, this year’s conference set the stage for forward-thinking discussions centered on sustainability, advanced technology, market trends, and strategies to captivate a new generation of yacht owners.

Opening Insights and Market Trends
Keynote speeches by His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, and Alex Nicholl, Vice President of New Industries at the Dubai World Trade Centre, emphasized Dubai’s pivotal role in the maritime sector. With a focus on expanding marina facilities to 52,000 berths, Dubai is positioning itself as a global yachting hub. Panel discussions highlighted the Arabian Gulf’s dynamic growth, including Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning coastline and Abu Dhabi’s leisure expansions. Leaders recognized Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and luxury developments as integral to attracting billionaires, whose wealth surged by 39.5% in 2024, driving demand for yachts and related services.

The Role of Privacy and Speed in Yacht Transactions
The conference addressed evolving transaction trends, with a spotlight on the rise of off-market yacht transactions, which have grown by 20%. Experts like Mohamed Al Zaabi, Founder & CEO of Royal Yachts UAE, attributed this growth to three factors: privacy, scarcity of high-end yachts, and expedited sales processes. These transactions underscore the crucial role of brokers in connecting clients with exclusive sellers, even as they challenge traditional price trend tracking methods.

Technology Transforming the Maritime Industry
Technology emerged as a transformative force reshaping navigation, sustainability, and customer experiences. AI and automation are enhancing yacht performance and safety, while green technology continues to evolve luxury offerings. Nicolas Lapp, Co-Founder of Sunreef Yachts, shared insights on creating sustainable yachts, noting a rising preference for eco-friendly catamarans. Innovations such as automated sail plans and AI-calculated navigation routes are improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption, pushing the boundaries of maritime sustainability.

Redefining Luxury Experiences for UHNWI
The conference delved into strategies for engaging ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI), whose expectations for luxury yachting continue to evolve. According to Jad Zakkak Migliorini, Chief Marketing Officer of Azimut Yachts, the modern billionaire yacht owner is younger, averaging 40-45 years old, and seeks emotionally immersive experiences over sheer size or volume. This generational shift requires the industry to craft bespoke, experiential offerings that resonate with these affluent buyers’ evolving tastes.

Preparing for the Dubai International Boat Show
As a precursor to the Dubai International Boat Show (DIBS), the Leisure Yachting Conference underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing the maritime industry. Scheduled from February 19-23, 2025, DIBS will showcase over 200 yachts and watercraft, uniting maritime professionals, families, and enthusiasts under one roof. Featuring 1,000 brands, the event solidifies Dubai’s reputation as a premier destination for luxury yachting.
Through engaging panel discussions, cutting-edge technological insights, and market trend analysis, the Leisure Yachting Conference reaffirmed Dubai’s leadership in shaping the future of the maritime industry.

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Dubai Leisure Yachting Conference 2025 Highlights Innovation