In a rare move for leisure yacht owners in the region, Dubai Marina Yacht Club and Creek Marina Yacht Club have introduced an eco-fuel alternative for leisure yachts.
The initiative follows a partnership between Emaar Hospitality Group and UAE-based Lootah Biofuels, which has led to the introduction of Sustainable Bio Yacht Fuel at both marinas.
The biofuel is produced locally from recycled cooking oil collected from hotels, residences, and Emaar’s integrated communities, transforming everyday waste into cleaner, marine-grade fuel through a circular process that keeps resources in use and lowers emissions.
Nicolas Belleton, of Emaar Hospitality Group, commented: ‘Sustainability is at the heart of how we operate across our Marinas and Hospitality assets. By introducing Sustainable Bio Yacht Fuel, we are giving our members a tangible, responsible choice that aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 goals, while setting a new standard for eco-innovation in the leisure marine sector.’
From Refuelling to Circular Fuel Production
The sustainable fuel will be introduced in stages, with dedicated refuelling points at both Dubai Marina Yacht Club and Creek Marina Yacht Club. For yacht owners, captains and marina members, the process is straightforward: refuel as usual, with a lower-impact alternative. Initially available on a scheduled basis, the service is expected to expand in line with demand.
The collaboration also highlights the growing role of the circular economy in modern luxury living.
Lootah Biofuels, which oversees the collection and processing of the fuel, specialises in converting used cooking oil into biodiesel blends that deliver meaningful reductions in carbon emissions compared to conventional marine fuel.
Yousif Saeed Lootah, CEO of Lootah Biofuels, commented: ‘We are proud to partner with Emaar to bring Sustainable Bio Yacht Fuel to Dubai’s Leisure Marine sector. This initiative demonstrates how locally sourced waste materials can be transformed into high-value energy solutions, supporting both environmental and operational progress across the UAE.’
Sustainability is already woven into the DNA of Dubai Marina Yacht Club, which holds Fish Friendly and Clean Marina accreditations. The marina also introduced an innovative ‘air water’ technology last year, converting atmospheric humidity into drinking water for captains and crew.
By making greener choices accessible, Emaar and Lootah Biofuels are giving yacht owners a practical way to reduce emissions on the water.
‘Our aim is to make sustainability actionable, not aspirational,’ Belleton added. ‘This is about creating a cleaner, more conscious marine lifestyle for our guests without compromising on experience.’
