Learn to cruise the waves at Dubai’s best sailing schools
Picture this: you are gliding across stunning turquoise waters on a beautiful sun-drenched day with a warm breeze in your hair and nothing but the open sea ahead. Sounds like a dream? It doesn’t have to stay that way. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned sailor looking to sharpen your skills, the sailing schools in Dubai can turn your dreams into reality.
List of the Best Sailing schools in Dubai
Once you attend the basic boating classes in Dubai, the fear of facing the waves will disappear. In fact, you will feel like a pro sailor!
Marine Concept Sea School and Yacht Charter
If you’re looking for the perfect place for sailing lessons in Dubai, the Marine Concept Sea School and Yacht Charter is a name you’ll want to know. It is backed by the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) and has a well-deserved reputation as one of the emirate’s best sailing schools.
It offers an impressive range of courses to suit every sailor, whether for commercial ambitions or private enjoyment. Think certifications in IYT (International Yacht Training) in disciplines like Small Powerboat and RIB Master, International Bareboat Skipper and Master of Yachts Coastal.
The school also offers licences from the Federal Maritime Authority. Once you have the necessary skills and certifications, you can treat your loved ones to unforgettable yacht experiences with, you behind the wheel!
- Location: Al Barsha Business Centre, Dubai
- Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
- Contact:
- Phone: +971-4-395-8022
- WhatsApp: +971-55-960-3030
Xclusive Sea School
Xclusive Sea School is one of the most widely recognised sailing schools in Dubai, as it uses state-of-the-art methodologies to ensure students walk away with the skills and knowledge they need on the water. Currently on offer is their Power Boat Level 2 for AED 2,500, a two-day course which comes with a certificate and DMCA licence up to 12 metres upon completion. Anyone over the age of 12 can sign up.
The school relies on Royal Yachting Association (RYA) standards, which allow a total of three students per session. Boats used in training students include a 6.5 metre single-engine Xclusive 21 boat that is docked at Dubai Marina.
Do you have your own sea vessel? Learn the ropes with their Own Boat Training, in which a personal trainer is assigned to you for a three-hour session. The training is conducted on an Xclusive training boat or a sports boat. Learn valuable skills like parking support with additional assistance on weak areas.
Xclusive is ISO 9001 and RYA certified. It is approved by the DMCA and is a recognised training centre with the UK Royal Yachting Association.
- Location: Retail Unit 3, Marina Level, Al Majara Tower 2, Dubai Marina
- Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 am to 10:00 pm, Mondays: 09:00 am to 11:00 pm
- Contact: +971-4-452-3332
Dubai Offshore Sailing Club
The RYA Training Centre at the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club offers courses on operating dinghies, powerboats and cruise vessels. These are available for both adults and kids, with the adult version set across three levels.
As an RYA scheme, the courses at Dubai Offshore are simple to follow. Beginners start at Stage 1 for youth or Level 1 for adults and progress from there. Each programme is tailored to suit the learning styles of its respective age group.
Lessons here can be taken on both weekdays and weekends, with weekday courses for kids scheduled for after school hours. Private one-on-one lessons are also available on weekdays for those who want to focus on a specific skill or are looking for a more personalised experience.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-394-1669
JLS Yacht Training Institute
Those in search of sailing schools in Dubai may also consider the JLS Yacht Training Institute. Here, you can enrol in beginner or advanced courses depending on your current skills. These include:
- RYA courses
- STCW 95/2010 courses
- JLS Yachts courses
Among these, the STCW programme covers security training on sea vessels, including Security Awareness, Personal Survival Techniques and Elementary First Aid.
For those who already own a yacht or are looking to start a yachting service, the Yachtmaster scheme by JLS is worth considering.
- Location: 304 Icon Building, Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Contact: +971-4-331-3555
Dubai Sailing Academy
Learn sailing in Dubai at the Dubai Sailing Academy, perfect for novices or those who would like to take up the sport casually. Students can opt for the International Skipper licence programme that offers in-depth training in navigation and safety, with training by experienced instructors. There is also a VIP Sailing category for a personalised training experience.
- Location: Dubai Harbour Marina
- Timings: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm
- Contact: +971-58-693-5022
FAQS
What is an RYA certification?
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is the British national governing body for all forms of boating sports. Qualifications from the RYA scheme are recognised across the globe, with some certifications for commercial purposes.
What is the STCW standard?
The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) is a mandatory global maritime safety standard for crews that work on commercial vessels.
ARE THERE ANY SAILING AND YACHT CLUBS IN DUBAI?
Other than these sailing institutes, there are many sailing and yacht clubs in Dubai, including:
- Jebel Ali Sailing & Catarman Club
- Dubai Marina Yacht Club
- The Captain’s Club
- Bvlgari Yacht Club
WHICH ARE THE MOST POPULAR DINNER CRUISES IN DUBAI?
Want to enjoy a luxurious feast while riding the waves? Here’s our list of the most popular dinner cruises in Dubai.
And that brings an end to the list of sailing schools in Dubai. There are many other watersports activities in Dubai that you can try. For instance, you can visit popular scuba diving spots in Dubai. Embark on an aquatic adventure with one of these exciting activities and make the most of the year-round sunshine. And never forget the serene beaches in Dubai.
