Deira Islands
Deira Islands. Nakheel is offering UAE’s boat owners and tour operators access to two new island destinations off the country’s coast. Image Credit: Supplied

Dubai: Nakheel is offering UAE’s boat owners and tour operators access to two new island destinations off the country’s coast.

One is Deira Islands, the developer’s new coastal city in the north of the emirate, and the other is a private island off Dubai Waterfront, in the south.

“We are expanding our marine facilities to reflect the continued growth in the UAE’s leisure boating industry,” said Aqil Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer, Nakheel, in a statement. “Nakheel is also bringing new marinas to Deira Islands to meet the growing demand for mooring facilities.”

The company’s Palm Jumeirah marinas are almost at full capacity, with over 400 members, Kazim added.

Access to all venues is free to Palm Jumeirah marina members, with other boat owners welcome for a nominal fee depending on the boat size. Visitors can enjoy a range of watersports, including swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, canoeing and stand-up paddling.

“Both domestic and international marine tourism play a key role in distinguishing Dubai as a world class destination. Boat owners and tour companies alike will enjoy these new destinations along Dubai’s world class coastline, and further contribute to this growing sector,” said Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Tourism.