Abu Dhabi looks to make waves in Monaco

The authority, which manages the tourism industry of Abu Dhabi, is mounting a destination pavilion at MYS, which is held under the high patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and is sponsoring the gala dinner by Camper & Nicholson International, the world's leading superyacht broker.

The venture into the upper echelons of global yachting comes as Abu Dhabi moves to build its own superyacht credentials ahead of next year's debut of the Abu Dhabi Yacht Show (ADYS).

The ADYS will be held 12 - 14 March next year at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), one of the world's most modern show venues and its 2.4 kilometre marina.

The marina, with a 250 metre quay wall for stern mooring and capable of berthing at least 20 superyachts of 25 metres or more in length, is being constructed in a channel adjacent to ADNEC.

The marina zone is part of the final phase of ADNEC's U$2.3bn Capital Centre business and residential micro-city development which will have restaurants, shops, entertainment facilities and low-rise, sea-view marina homes.

"Monaco gives us the opportunity to present Abu Dhabi's compelling superyacht hub proposition to the most influential audience in the sector," said His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA.

"We hope that a significant number of exhibitors and visitors to the Monaco show will have their interest sufficient stirred to seek more information on Abu Dhabi as the potential superyacht hub of the Middle East and of the ADYS as the most appropriate forum for networking within this affluent community."

MYS annually attracts a private clientele of the world's super rich from over 40 countries.

The show is organised by the Informa Yacht Group (IYG), the leading global yacht exhibition organiser which is also behind the Abu Dhabi Yacht Show.

"ADYS is set to become one of the world's most exclusive and luxurious superyacht events," added Al Muhairi.

"A yachting event of global standing is an excellent 'fit' for Abu Dhabi which has extensive natural marine assets and a rich maritime history. The people of Abu Dhabi have a long relationship with the sea which has been a key provider of sustenance in the past and now a focal point for sport and relaxation."

Abu Dhabi, which has 700 kilometres of coastline and 200 natural islands, is also witnessing substantial urban, inland and coastal development to transform it into an international tourism destination of distinction.

Marinas feature in many of its waterfront developments and the emirate is also planning to build a maritime museum, which has been designed by famed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, in the Cultural District of its Saadiyat Island destination.