The Launch of Azimut Seadeck 9: A New Era for Yachting in the Arabic Gulf
During the recent launch of the Azimut Seadeck 9 in Avigliana, a vibrant dialogue emerged about the transformations taking place in the yacht market of the Arabic Gulf. We had the opportunity to speak with Karim Hamza, Senior Sales Manager of Elite Yachts, the exclusive representative of Azimut in the region. The event served as a springboard to delve into the nuances and changing landscapes of this affluent market.
Dubai: The Thriving Yachting Hub
Dubai has firmly established itself as a premier yachting hub on the global stage. According to Hamza, the allure of Dubai extends beyond stunning vessels. International yacht owners now prioritize a comprehensive ecosystem when choosing where to purchase and berth their yachts. “Safety, infrastructure, regulations, fiscal advantages, and quality of life all contribute to the destination’s value,” he explains. This holistic approach means that selling a yacht is intertwined with promoting the overall experience the city offers.
The Complete Ecosystem of Luxurious Living
Hamza emphasizes the importance of presenting Dubai as an attractive environment for yacht ownership. “Clients evaluate the whole package,” he states. This includes not just the yacht itself, but the entire lifestyle it promotes. The city’s blend of luxury, leisure, and investment opportunities creates a compelling case for potential buyers. Providing ongoing services, charter possibilities, and fostering lasting relationships become integral parts of this ecosystem.
The Weight of Prestige and Responsibility
Representing Azimut Yachts in the Gulf comes with significant responsibility, highlighted by Hamza’s remarks. “Azimut is a brand built on decades of innovation and history,” he states, underscoring the importance of safeguarding its reputation. With clientele that often includes ultra-high-net-worth individuals, trust becomes paramount. Factors such as technical expertise, transparency, and discretion are essential in building lasting relationships, according to Hamza.
The Role of Strategic Investments
The strategic vision of industry figures like Ahmad Alameeri and the Alameeri Group further supports the growth in the region. Their ongoing investments, particularly new locations like Al Seef and Dubai Harbour in the UAE, and Msheireb in Qatar, demonstrate a commitment to client proximity and regional development. This infrastructure provides a solid foundation for expanding the yachting market.
A Nod to the Past with an Eye on the Future
Hamza reflects on the significance of the first sale of the Seadeck 9, likening it to the launch of the Azimut 105 Failaka in the early 1980s. This moment represents a pivotal step forward in yachting design, focusing on sustainability and intelligent engineering. Lower emissions and enhanced hull efficiency illustrate how the industry is evolving to meet modern expectations.
Beyond Sales: Shaping Market Standards
Hamza views the role of Elite Yachts as going beyond mere sales; it’s about educating clients and enhancing industry standards in the Gulf. The company’s exclusive partnership with Azimut and the successful sale of the Seadeck 9 position them as key influencers in both regional and international markets.
Trust as a Foundation for Growth
The need for trust is paramount in a market that has witnessed rapid changes over the past two decades. Today’s yacht owners have become more discerning, seeking long-term value. Hamza points to the importance of having robust support structures in place to assist owners throughout the yacht’s lifecycle—from purchase to maintenance and resale—reinforcing the need for continuous engagement.
Bridging Cultures and Competencies
Elite Yachts has emerged as an important conduit between European shipyards and Middle Eastern clients, adeptly navigating complex projects within a competitive environment. Under Alameeri’s leadership, the company continues to balance commercial growth with strategic investments, maintaining the Gulf’s stature as a sophisticated player in the global yachting industry. As the region shapes its identity, it moves from simply following trends to actively defining them, influencing the yachting world on an international scale.