For Dubai’s ever-growing yachting community, the region’s Festival Marina is the place to see and be seen.  Since its opening in 2007, it has not only developed into a world-class yachting destination but also a luxury lifestyle hub that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Situated just five nautical miles from the open sea, the marina is ideally situated on the banks of the historical Dubai Creek, bridging the old and new parts of the city. Its scenic waterfront setting rivals that of the Mediterranean: there are 78 permanent berths, a helipad and state-of-the-art facilities catering for yachts from 10 metres to 35 metres. There’s also an area at the quayside for visiting yachts which provides access to Dubai Festival City’s luxury leisure activities, including fine dining establishments, fashion boutiques and top notch accommodation.

Designed by Dubai-based Mourjan Marinas IGY, Festival Marina also plays host to a range of other attractions including the annual Dubai Dragon Boat Festival, therapeutic yoga sessions and a nautical-themed flea market that sells everything from anchors and ropes to 40-metre yachts. The “Whatever Floats your Boat” recycled boat race has also become a popular charity event at the marina.  Local companies and schools are invited to build rafts made of recycled materials and race them along the Dubai Creek, encouraging eco awareness in boating.

And it’s not just the boat crazy grownups that are entertained, there’s fun for all the kids too, including bouncy castles, face painting, volleyball and whole lot more to keep them amused by the water from morning until night.

www.mourjanmarinas.com