Ambitions in the Gulf

The ambitious Dubai Canal project will change how boating is perceived in the UAE, inspiring more people to explore the possibilities of on-water living and entertainment, according to one of the world’s leading superyacht builders.

The water was released into the nine-kilometre long waterway that runs from Habtoor City to Bur Dubai creating the new Dubai Canal. There is a boardwalk that stretched 3.2 km from Business Bay to Jumeirah Trove. The canal was a dream of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum who reigned from 1957 until his death in 1990. It was realised by his son, Sheikh Mohammed.

“The Dubai Canal will enable existing and aspiring yacht owners to experience the yachting lifestyle without having to venture out into the open seas, eliminating the barrier often associated with fear of navigation and seasickness,” said CEO of Emirates-based boat manufacturer, Gulf Craft, Erwin Bamps.

“This project is essentially changing the landscape of boating in the UAE, creating a waterway in the center of new communities, similar to other cruising sanctuaries found in modern cities around the world, such as the beautiful waterways adjoining the Sydney Harbour.”

There is a new waterfall cascading off the Dubai Canal bridge that’s motion controlled so it turn off when boats float past. Plans are to create a park and ride facility similar to that of hop-on, hop-off buses, except on water, that will give people access to various drop-off points along the canal.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recently opened more than 1,600 parking spots under the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge, in the Business Bay and Safa areas, as well as along the waterway itself, allowing visitors to park their car on either side of the canal and enjoy panoramic views from the Boardwalk, or take a ride on a ferry or a water taxi.

The canal provides a gateway to numerous boating and lifestyle attractions, including the region’s first purpose-built yachting destination, Marasi Business Bay, which will span 12 kilometres of waterfront promenade, and host five marinas with 1,250 berths.

www.gulfcraftinc.com