Discover Dubai by superyacht

With the Red Sea conflict dominating headlines, the question of what happens to superyachts navigating the region has been on everyone’s minds. For yachts that couldn’t make it to the Med for the summer, the solution is simple: spend your winter in the UAE. As temperatures cool and Europe shivers under grey skies, Dubai presents an enticing alternative – a place of sun-drenched luxury, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. This isn’t just about partying or shopping, though those experiences are on offer – this is your opportunity to explore a vibrant, multifaceted destination that combines sea, desert, and city in perfect harmony.

According to Jonathan Hind, Managing Director of Burgess in Dubai, ‘There are some pretty fantastic areas to cruise, and this is a great opportunity to explore the region’. On a recent visit to Dubai, the Burgess team discovered there is far more to this Emirate than meets the eye. To fully discover the UAE, you must combine three things: sea, desert and city.

The sea

The coastline of the UAE stretches from the northern regions of Saudi Arabia, past Abu Dhabi, through Dubai and onto the Fjords of Arabia over the border and into Oman. This stretch offers sea lovers the chance to cruise interesting and varied seascapes. We boarded the 24 ct gold-dusted Palmer Johnson AK ROYALTY to discover this for ourselves.

Owner Aaron and wife Ksenia suggest we meet the yacht in Jebel Ali Marina, and we spent the afternoon out at the secluded anchorage where motorised toys are welcomed. With few other yachts in sight, this private haven offered the kind of solitude that even the Mediterranean’s quietest season can’t match.

The desert

Leaving the yacht behind, we were picked up for our desert safari run by Platinum Heritage, known for its sustainable and luxury experiences. We arrived at basecamp, donned our headscarves and jumped in the back of our vehicles. Travelling in vintage Land Rovers, we roamed the protected desert with our driver who pointed out native wildlife like the Arabian oryx, a rare animal once on the brink of extinction that now roams the protected deserts outside of Dubai.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sand’s colours deepened, and the vastness of the desert became a quiet, meditative space – a reminder that Dubai isn’t just about city lights and skyscrapers, but also about reconnecting with nature.

The city

Dubai’s reputation for glamour is well-deserved, but there’s far more to this city than first meets the eye. Whether it’s your first time in the city or a regular stop, no stay in Dubai is complete without visiting one of its seriously luxe hotels. The newly opened The Lana is a real jewel in Dorchester Collection’s crown.

Under the shadow of the Burj Khalifa and adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Mall, this is a seriously sophisticated old-world offering in an Emirate that generally favours new world glitz and glamour. The Lana perfectly embodies that feeling of elegance and grace that you only get when you step through the doors of any Dorchester Collection hotel whether in London, Paris or now Dubai.

Perfectly positioned to bookend your yacht charter, The Lana even offers a private boat service for seamless transfers between your yacht and the hotel. After a day at sea, enjoy a swim in the rooftop infinity pool, which offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The Junior Suites, with their expansive balconies and elegant decor, offer the perfect spot to unwind with a cup of tea – served, of course, with the kind of precision and grace that only Dorchester Collection can deliver.

Dining at The Lana is just as impressive, with its mixology-forward cocktail bar and the Riviera-inspired restaurant offering elevated European fare. Whether you’re watching the sunset from your balcony or exploring the city’s vibrant art and cultural scene, this hotel encapsulates Dubai’s ability to seamlessly blend elegance with modernity.

Dubai: A winter escape unlike any other 

As winter approaches and the Mediterranean cools, Dubai’s mild temperatures and sunny skies offer the perfect escape. The city and its surroundings are a unique combination of modern luxury, untouched nature, and ancient traditions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the finer things in life while also discovering a more authentic side of the UAE.

So, as you plan your next charter, think beyond the usual suspects and set your sights on Dubai, where adventure, relaxation, and culture await.