What water sports can you try on a yacht in Dubai?

Dubai attracts businesses and investors due to the absence of personal income tax and corporate tax for most companies. This makes the city appealing to professionals and entrepreneurs. I spoke with expats who noted that the lack of income tax allows them to keep more of their earnings. However, since 2018, a 5% VAT (Value Added Tax) has been introduced on most goods and services. This step is aimed at diversifying government revenue. The overall tax system is transparent and streamlined, which facilitates doing business and stimulates economic activity.

The cost of renting a yacht in Dubai may vary depending on the company providing the services. Main payment methods: Bank transfer: one of the most common payment methods, especially when booking in advance. The company provides you with the details for the transfer, and you make the payment through your bank. It is important to keep in mind that bank transfers can take several days, so it is recommended to do this in advance. Credit/Debit cards: Many companies accept credit and debit cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express and other popular payment systems. This payment method is usually the fastest and most convenient. Cash: Cash payment is possible, especially if you book the yacht directly on site. Keep in mind that yacht rental amounts are usually significant, so it is better to clarify in advance the possibility of paying in cash and limits. Online payment systems: Some companies may accept payments through popular online payment systems such as PayPal. Important points when paying: Deposit: specify the amount and conditions of the deposit. A deposit is usually paid to cover possible damage to the yacht during the rental period and is refunded after the end of the lease if everything is in order with the yacht. Prepayment: Many companies require prepayment (usually from 20% to 50% of the rental price) when booking a yacht. Payment currency: Specify the currency in which the payment is accepted (usually UAE Dirhams (AED), US dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR)). Additional expenses: specify which expenses are included in the rental price (captain's services, fuel, insurance) and which are paid separately. Fees: there are fees for making a payment (for example, the commission of a bank or payment system). Payment confirmation: Be sure to keep the payment confirmation (bank transfer receipt or credit card receipt) until the end of the yacht rental.

There are several yacht clubs in Dubai, including: - Dubai Marina Yacht Club: One of the most prestigious full-service yacht clubs. - Dubai Offshore Sailing Club: A club for sailing enthusiasts with training programs. - Jumeirah Beach Hotel Marina: A club with its own berths and luxurious amenities.

Dubai has several locations where you can swim for free: Jumeirah Beach (also known as Jumeirah Open Beach): Dubai's most famous public beach stretching for several kilometers. Kite Beach: Popular with water sports enthusiasts, particularly kitesurfers, but also has a section for general swimming. La Mer Beach: A modern beach with a variety of entertainment options, including pools, but also has a free zone for swimming in the sea. Bear in mind that swimming in the sea in Dubai can be restricted on some days due to tides or weather conditions. Additional tip: Check out a map of Dubai beaches before you go to help you choose a spot with easy access and facilities.

Before sailing, the captain of the yacht checks all the navigation and equipment systems.

To go out into the open ocean, special yachts are needed, which are highly durable, reliable and equipped with everything necessary for long sea crossings. Here are the main types of yachts that can go out to the ocean: Ocean cruisers Sailing Cruisers: These yachts are specially designed for long voyages in ocean conditions. They have a sturdy hull, usually made of steel or aluminum, and are equipped with everything necessary for autonomous navigation, including a navigation system, satellite communications and sufficient supplies of fuel and fresh water.  - Examples: Oyster 565, Hallberg-Rassy 44, Amel 50. Motor cruisers: Motor yachts for ocean crossings also have a solid construction and large fuel tanks, allowing them to cover long distances without refueling. They are equipped for a comfortable stay on board for several weeks or months.    - Examples: Nordhavn 60, Fleming 55, Selene 54. Expedition yachts These yachts are designed for extreme conditions and are often used for research expeditions. They have reinforced hulls capable of withstanding ice loads and severe sea conditions.    - Examples: Damen SeaXplorer, Numarine XP Series, Arksen 85. Catamarans Catamarans, due to their stability and spaciousness, are also suitable for ocean crossings. They provide a large living area and comfort in swimming.    - Examples: Lagoon 620, Fountaine Pajot Alegria 67, Catana 53. Trimarans Trimarans, like catamarans, have high stability and speed, which makes them suitable for crossing oceans.    - Examples: Neel 51, Dragonfly 40, Corsair 37. Key features of ocean yachts: Robust housing: Materials such as steel, aluminum or carbon fiber provide high strength and reliability. Autonomy: Large fuel tanks, water desalination systems and sufficient provisions for a long voyage. Navigation equipment: Modern navigation and satellite communication systems for safe and accurate navigation. Comfort: Providing comfortable conditions for the crew for a long time, including heating, air conditioning and entertainment systems. Choosing a yacht for ocean travel depends on the planned routes, budget and personal preferences, but the main thing is safety, reliability and the ability to withstand the harsh conditions of the open sea.

Preparing a yacht for sailing includes several key stages: Technical Condition Check: Inspect and check the condition of all yacht systems, including engine, sails, electronics and equipment. Restocking: Stock up on fuel, water, and food in sufficient quantities for the entire trip. Checking life-saving equipment: Make sure that there are enough life jackets, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits and other safety equipment on board. Navigation Equipment Upgrade: Check and update maps, GPS navigators and other navigation devices. Checking weather forecasts: Get up-to-date weather forecasts for the entire route and plan your trip taking into account possible changes in weather conditions. Informing Coastguards: Inform coastguards and loved ones about your route and estimated time of arrival

The most expensive yacht in the world is "Azzam", owned by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi. Azzam is not just a yacht, but a real floating fortress. It is 180 meters long (longer than a football field!). The best shipbuilders in the world participated in its construction. It is equipped with the most advanced technology and luxury imaginable. There are many legends about its cost, but it has not been officially disclosed. So, when it comes to the most expensive yacht, it is not just a vessel, but a symbol of wealth and power of one of the most influential people in the world!

Some of the popular resorts near Dubai include: - Abu Dhabi: The capital of the UAE with numerous cultural attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Fujairah: Known for its beaches on the Indian Ocean coast and the Hajar Mountains. - Ras Al Khaimah: A popular resort with beautiful beaches and historical sites. - Sharjah: A cultural center with many museums and exhibitions.