27 November, Dubai, UAE – Gulf Craft, the UAE’s premier yacht and boat manufacturer, hosted the ‘Crafting Legacies’ event in the historical Mina Rashid Marina in Dubai. The event celebrated the UAE’s rich maritime heritage while exploring Gulf Craft’s evolution from a modest boat manufacturer to a global leader in luxury yacht and leisure boat production to showcase what ‘Made in the UAE’ stands for.
With the theme ‘Crafting Legacies,’ under the direction of Emirati Creative Director Rowdha Alsayegh from Rowdha SAY, the event reflected on Gulf Craft’s deep-rooted connection to the sea and its ongoing journey to innovate and inspire. Gulf Craft invited attendees to not only honour the past but also envision their own legacies, echoing the pioneering spirit of the UAE and limitless potential of this inspiring land.
A Fusion of Heritage, Innovation, and Luxury
Guests were treated to an immersive experience showcasing the value of the sea to the UAE, and Gulf Craft’s maritime excellence over four decades. Attendees explored the award-winning Majesty 120 and Majesty 111 superyachts, as well as the shipyard’s adventure yacht brand, Nomad 101 and Nomad 70. These vessels exemplified Gulf Craft’s commitment to cutting-edge design, craftsmanship, and sustainability.
The event venue, Mina Rashid Marina, a historically relevant destination where the legacy of Dubai’s maritime started and still is a premier waterfront destination in Dubai catering to yacht and boat enthusiasts further highlighted the UAE’s prominence in the global maritime scene.
Collaborations with Leading Emirati & Global Brands
To further celebrate what ‘Made in the UAE’ stands for and the abilities of the country, each of the vessels hosted a luxury brand as a part of an enhanced experience that was specifically curated to the theme ‘Crafting Legacies’:
- Adi Al Fardan Jewellery: Displayed a bespoke collection of Paraiba Tourmaline high-end Jewellery under the theme “From Pearls to Paraiba” highlighting the newest gemstone that made it to the top in a short timeframe just like the UAE was able to stand out globally.
- Jacob & Co.: Showcased an exclusive collection of timepieces that embody the brand’s core values of fearless, pioneering, innovative, creative, and risk-taking which are values we see in the UAE. Their theme was “Crafting Possibilities” – making the impossible realty.
- Tashkeel: A leading Emirati art foundation transformed the yachts into unique artistic galleries, featuring sea-inspired artworks crafted with local resources that truly paid tribute to what “Made in the UAE” stands for.
- Carter & White: Represented Emirati excellence in the fashion sector with their innovative and high-quality designs showcasing a yacht experience in the hand of fine craftsmanship by a local brand.
- Perfume Bar: Offered guests a sensory experience with a bespoke perfume created by the Gulf Craft family that represented the essence of the sea and boats.
- Dar Al Ber Society: Launched the “Crafting Change” initiative to raise awareness and funds for Lebanon, symbolising Gulf Craft’s dedication to crafting change in the community and not only focus on one’s legacy.
The guests could also indulge into oysters from the local farm Dibba Bay and a caviar tasting from Numero Uno, both gourmet experiences inspired by the sea.
A Curated Experience Honouring the Past and Shaping the Future
VIP Guests, including H.E Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (D3), Osama Al Shafar, Member of the Federal National Council of UAE & President of the Asian Cycling Confederation, along with Gulf Craft’s partners, clients, and regional connoisseurs of luxury and craftsmanship, were treated to a curated journey of elegance and heritage.
Featuring art exhibitions, mocktail tastings, and exquisite caviar and oyster samplings, the event reflected Gulf Craft’s ethos of innovation and excellence.
The ‘Crafting Legacies’ event not only celebrated the UAE’s rich maritime heritage but also showcased Gulf Craft’s vision for the future of yachting, blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation to position the UAE as a symbol of global excellence and showcased the essence of luxury craftsmanship that is ‘Made in the UAE’ alongside collaborators that share this vision and legacy.
"Through Crafting Legacies, we celebrate our nation’s deep maritime heritage, honouring the traditions, that shaped us while showcasing the true essence of 'Made in the UAE', timeless craftsmanship, visionary leadership, and a commitment to inspiring future generations." Said Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman - Gulf Craft.