Abu Dhabi Opens First Floating Hotel at Yas Marina
Abu Dhabi has launched its first floating hotel, the Orchid Overnight Superyacht, permanently docked at Yas Marina. This new attraction combines the comfort of a modern hotel with the luxury of a yacht, making it a unique experience for visitors.
The project is managed by Dutch Oriental Megayachts, a company known for luxury vessels. With its central location and innovative concept, the Orchid Overnight Superyacht is expected to attract both tourists and residents, adding new energy to Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry.
A Unique Stay on the Water
The Orchid Overnight Superyacht is designed to give guests a new kind of stay in Abu Dhabi. The yacht offers 31 rooms in total:
- 24 standard rooms with modern amenities.
- 4 VIP rooms with larger spaces.
- 3 suites with private hot tubs for an exclusive experience.
Room rates start at Dh990 per night, giving visitors access to luxury at a competitive price. Guests can also rent the entire yacht for private events, weddings, or corporate gatherings, making it flexible for different needs.
Why Yas Marina?
The yacht is permanently docked at Yas Marina, one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular lifestyle destinations. The marina already has restaurants, leisure activities, and entertainment venues, making it a perfect location for the new floating hotel.
Jassim Albastaki, General Manager of Yas Asset Management, said the Orchid Overnight adds a new type of accommodation to Yas Marina. He explained that it blends perfectly with the area’s existing attractions, such as theme parks, malls, and motorsport events.
Easy Access to Abu Dhabi and Dubai
The choice of Yas Marina was also strategic. Swapnil Patrikar, General Manager of Dutch Oriental Megayachts, said the location is convenient for both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The yacht is close to Zayed International Airport, making it accessible for international guests.
From the marina, visitors can easily reach Yas Island attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and Etihad Arena. The Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit is also nearby, giving motorsport fans another reason to stay.
Hotel Facilities and Services
Although it is a yacht, the Orchid Overnight offers all the services expected from a luxury hotel. Guests can enjoy:
- Concierge services.
- Dining options.
- A spacious sun deck.
- Event spaces for private functions.
The design ensures comfort while maintaining a feeling of exclusivity. Guests can relax with marina views, enjoy fine dining, or host events in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Cruises Starting in October 2025
From October 2025, the hotel will also begin offering sundowner and dinner cruises along the Abu Dhabi coastline. These cruises will give visitors a chance to enjoy beautiful sunset views while dining on board.
This feature makes the Orchid Overnight more than just a hotel—it becomes a full experience. Guests can stay overnight and also explore Abu Dhabi from the water.
Supporting Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Vision
The UAE has been working to expand and diversify its tourism sector. The Orchid Overnight fits perfectly into this vision by introducing something new and exciting to the market.
Floating hotels are rare in the region, and this makes Abu Dhabi stand out compared to other destinations. The hotel appeals to different groups:
- Tourists looking for luxury.
- Couples searching for a romantic stay.
- Families wanting a unique holiday.
- Businesses planning private events.
By launching this project, Abu Dhabi shows its ability to combine innovation, luxury, and tradition in its hospitality sector.
A Landmark for Dutch Oriental Megayachts
For Dutch Oriental Megayachts, this project is a big step forward. The company is already known for luxury yachts, but the Orchid Overnight makes them a pioneer in floating hotels in the UAE.
Patrikar explained that the concept offers the privacy of a yacht with the convenience of a hotel. With Yas Marina as its base, the yacht is set to become a permanent feature of Abu Dhabi’s tourism scene.
Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Position
Abu Dhabi has invested heavily in world-class hotels, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues. The addition of the Orchid Overnight Superyacht adds another layer to this strategy.
From desert resorts to high-rise hotels, and now a floating hotel, Abu Dhabi continues to expand its range of unique accommodations. This variety makes the capital more appealing to international travelers and helps it compete with global destinations.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Orchid Overnight is not only about offering rooms on a yacht. It represents Abu Dhabi’s goal to create memorable experiences. Guests will not only stay but also enjoy activities, dining, and cruises.
As the UAE continues to grow as a tourism hub, unique projects like this will play an important role. The Orchid Overnight Superyacht is expected to become a must-visit attraction, giving visitors an unforgettable story to share.
