Sameh Muhtadi, CEO of RAK Properties, is among the speakers at the World Yachting Summit. As an expert in large-scale real estate operations, he will bring to Monaco his experience in the field of yachting development in the United Arab Emirates.

Daily Nautica, one of the media partners of the Monaco event, interviewed him to delve into the growth of the sector in the geographical region, with its many aspects also linked to sustainability.

What topics will you address in your speech at the World Yachting Summit in Monaco?

At World Yachting Summit I’ll be exploring how Ras Al Khaimah – and the UAE more broadly- is approaching yachting development with a fresh canvas. We’re not retrofitting legacy destinations; we’re building intentionally for the next generation of yacht travellers. That means curating experiences that connect land and sea, where a marina isn’t a stopping point but the gateway to a complete lifestyle, anchored by world-class resorts, walkable leisure districts, and preserved natural beauty.

As someone deeply passionate about sailing, I’ve always believed the shore matters just as much as the sea. Our vision reflects that, from marina design to the rhythm of life that awaits beyond the dock.

Given your professional experience, what are the key assets currently essential for the general development of the nautical tourism sector?

The most successful yachting destinations offer more than a berth, they offer a sense of place. Today’s yacht owners and charter guests seek more than just functionality; they’re looking for destinations that combine high-end hospitality, privacy, cultural richness, and seamless access- by both air and sea. It’s not just about exclusivity, but about a destination that speaks to them on a deeper level, with authenticity and character.

That’s exactly what we’re creating in Ras Al Khaimah. At Mina, yacht owners can step off their vessel directly into a thoughtfully curated coastal environment. The marina is just steps away from the upcoming Four Seasons Resort & Residences, the InterContinental, Anantara, and Nikki Beach, supported by 137 retail and dining outlets. We’re designing around what today’s, and tomorrow’s, yacht lifestyle demands: effortless luxury, freedom of movement, and a sense of discovery, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty and cultural integrity. This is what sets Ras Al Khaimah apart.

What path is the UAE taking to support recreational boating and associated tourism? 

The UAE is positioning itself as a holistic yachting hub through coordinated investment in both hard and soft infrastructure. Across the Emirates, we’re expanding marina networks, from Dubai’s state-of-the-art complexes to boutique ports in Abu Dhabi and pristine anchorages in Ras Al Khaimah, to offer a diverse, connected cruising circuit. This is supported by regulatory reform that simplifies yacht entry, enhances maritime safety, and makes the UAE more accessible to international yacht owners.

The UAE is also integrating yachting into the broader tourism experience, pairing marina arrivals with access to luxury shopping, cultural landmarks, wellness retreats, and natural adventures. Ras Al Khaimah, for example, offers untouched coastlines, mountain escapes, and curated leisure all within easy reach of the marina.

Our approach also focuses on cultivating a yachting culture, hosting international regattas, yacht shows, and forums like the first World Yachting Summit itself to foster global connection. Underpinning all of this is a firm commitment to sustainability and innovation- from eco-conscious marina design to marine conservation efforts.

Do the sustainability of an infrastructure and all related aspects play an important role, in your opinion, in determining the choice of it as a holiday destination by shipowners and enthusiasts?

Absolutely. The modern yachting community is increasingly conscious of their footprint. Sustainability is not a luxury add-on, it’s a decision driver. That’s why RAK Properties is committed to coastline preservation, sustainable marina design, and partnerships that prioritise ecological balance. We’re integrating sustainability into every layer of our developments, from water and energy use to material sourcing and biodiversity protection. A yachting destination today must not only be beautiful, but responsible.

From my perspective, a sustainable infrastructure doesn’t just appeal to one’s conscience, it actually enhances the experience: cleaner waters, healthier coral reefs, and preserved natural habitats mean better diving, more scenic cruising, and a deeper connection with nature during their stay.

What are the projects that RAK Properties is currently developing?

We’re in the midst of a truly exciting chapter at RAK Properties, with over AED 5 billion (USD 1.36 billion) worth of projects in the pipeline for 2025, centred around our flagship development, Mina. As Ras Al Khaimah’s only masterplanned coastal destination, Mina spans 43 kilometres of waterfront and offers a blend of luxury island living, integrated communities, curated experiences, and premium real estate.

Our vision at Mina is about balancing sophistication with authenticity, and long-term value with lifestyle appeal. From resorts and wellness hubs to nature-driven tourism, the entire destination is thoughtfully designed to elevate coastal living. Residents and visitors can walk directly off their yachts into a fully serviced yacht club. Just steps away, the upcoming Four Seasons Resort & Residences will offer world-class F&B, wellness, and curated retail. Surrounding this hub are residential communities – Quattro Del Mar, Bay Residences, Edge, and Mirasol, among others – crafted to make life by the water both effortless and enriching. Our global partnerships with brands such as Anantara, Nikki Beach, and Porto Playa by Ellington reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional, experience-led destinations that resonate globally.

Ultimately, this isn’t just about creating a place to stay, it’s about shaping a way of life. Curated, connected, and conscious. A walkable waterfront community where yacht owners can dock, dine, relax, and retreat- all within moments. The pace of demand and the calibre of global partnerships reflect what we’re seeing on the ground: growing investor confidence in Ras Al Khaimah’s growth potential.