Dubai Harbour Still Growing: Abdulla Binhabtoor
Abdulla Binhabtoor of Shamal Holding, owner of Dubai Harbour, talks about the waterfront development’s ongoing growth, the 700-berth marina’s role as host of the Dubai International Boat Show, and Shamal’s exciting upcoming projects.

Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, Shamal Holding.
Why has Dubai Harbour proved such a successful venue for the Dubai International Boat Show since 2022?
Each year, the boat show continues to evolve, encouraging meaningful conversations across the industry. Over the years, we’ve seen its impact in driving evolution within the region’s leisure maritime sector.
As the show has evolved, Dubai Harbour has evolved as a destination. Today, we’re a gateway for yachts and superyachts from around the world, as part of our mixed-use development that includes a wide range of living, retail and hospitality choices.
We also play host to some of the city’s biggest events, giving people new ways to discover their own maritime journey. We continue to explore new ways to enhance our offerings through investments in technology, sustainability and maritime infrastructure to create a better and more memorable guest experience.
Is Dubai Harbour still developing?
It has rapidly developed in the past three years, growing to encompass a wide range of maritime lifestyle offerings. Our marinas offer the region’s largest marina, featuring close to 700 berths and able to accommodate yachts up to 160m in length, with Bay Marina on the east side boasting Dubai’s first dedicated superyacht marina.
However, we’re increasing the number of berths and developing new infrastructure to continually enhance our offering. There’s more to come on this, and we look forward to unveiling our plans soon.
What trends have you noticed among Dubai residents in recent years?
We’ve seen a growing appetite for new experiences becoming a trend across different sectors. From a maritime perspective, this has unfolded with a rise in superyachting and more demand for seafront experiences.
On the other hand, demand for real estate and branded residences is growing, especially with more UNHWIs and HNWIs choosing to call Dubai their home. Recent diversification of foreign laws has also created significant opportunities for people from around the world.
Dubai has also been actively prioritising sustainability, technology and innovation across key business areas. As a manifestation of Dubai’s wider urban planning, we continue to facilitate the development of megaprojects in the city by evolving and upgrading our portfolio across all our assets, which include real estate, hospitality and leisure offerings.
What properties are Shamal Holding working on?
We’re currently working on a wide range of developments including Nad Al Sheba Gardens. In 2023, we broke ground on UAE’s first Baccarat Hotel & Residences, an exclusive lifestyle luxury development. Coming up at Dubai Harbour, we will soon be announcing several upgrades to enhance the development as a seafront residential district.
Can you tell us more about the Baccarat project?
Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai introduces a glimmering new masterpiece with an otherworldly lifestyle experience, for those who choose to see life in a new light.
Blending Baccarat’s heritage of craftsmanship, the experience and energy of Dubai and a meticulous attention to finer detail, Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai will provide authentic elegance, refined comfort, exquisite living and iconic, inspirational design.
With two crystal-inspired towers cutting a new feature into Dubai’s skyline containing hotel suites boasting Baccarat’s signature design as well as bespoke residences, the new downtown lifestyle development will be complemented by exceptional dining experiences and the highest-quality amenities and services.
In association with our partners at H&H Development, SH Hotels & Resorts, we look forward to delivering an industry-defining project, with Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai setting a new standard of elevated living experience.
This article was first seen on yachtstyle.co.
For more on the latest in business and leaders, click here.