Over the last five years the governments of the Arabian Gulf have invested millions into the yachting infrastructure of the region, building world class marinas, yacht clubs, as well as crew and refit facilities. As one of the up and coming destinations in the yachting industry we have focused a spotlight on the region, speaking with some of its top experts. Yousuf Lootah, Executive Director of Developments and Investments, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism shares his experience of the industry in Dubai, while Oliver Rees, General Manager of Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina in Saudi Arabia, gives the perspective of the northern Gulf. Captain Steve Corbett has spent four decades in the yachting industry and founded JLS Yachts and Superyacht Middle East and brings a wealth of knowledge on the region to this panel. Finally, Grant Holmes, Global Sector Head at Inchcape Shipping Services, shares insight from the commercial maritime industry which already enjoys a huge amount of success in the region.Photo: Yas MarinaThe Arabian Gulf is a burgeoning region for the yachting industry, can you tell us a little about how it has evolved over the last decade?

Captain Steve Corbett: Historically there has been an acute shortage of large marina berths and a maritime system based around old “merchant marine” rules and regulations, but JLS Yachts / Superyacht Middle East has worked tirelessly with Government departments especially Dubai Tourism and the DMCA (Dubai…