ICOMIA podcast: Wyndham Tops, Red Sea Global, on the Gulf’s rapid evolution as a marine destination

The Gulf region is witnessing a rapid evolution in its leisure marine sector, led by coordinated industry efforts through bodies like the Leisure Marine Association (LMA’s details are available from its homepage). Wyndham Tops, board member at ICOMIA and a representative of LMA, tells Ben Taylor that the association was created to unify and advocate for the leisure marine industry across the Middle East and North Africa.

Originally founded in Dubai, LMA now represents stakeholders from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and others across the region. Its mission is to provide a platform for businesses to engage with government bodies, influence legislation, and facilitate a transition from an emerging market to a mature, structured marine economy. The association believes it plays a vital role in aligning private sector interests with regulatory reforms, supporting sustainable growth, and ensuring that the industry develops with international standards in mind.

A significant catalyst for regional marine growth is the strategic streamlining of regulations, particularly in the UAE, making it easier for foreign-flagged vessels and marine businesses to operate. Tops notes that local authorities have shown foresight by involving industry experts to refine bureaucratic processes without compromising safety or operational standards.

This efficiency is now attracting yacht brokers, dealers, and management companies to set up operations in Dubai and beyond. The process improvements — ranging from customs to marina readiness — are opening the door to the transient yachting market, encouraging more global yacht owners to view the region as a viable winter destination. This regulatory clarity doesn’t just enable compliance, it actively fosters business growth and long-term investment in marine infrastructure and services.

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a marine powerhouse with ambitious infrastructure projects along its Red Sea coastline. Tops, who is also affiliated with Red Sea Global (which owns tourism destinations), details the expansive plans underway, including new marinas stretching from NEOM’s Sindalah Island in the north to Jeddah in the south. These developments are part of a broader push to turn Saudi Arabia into a global yachting destination. Coordination with the Suez Canal Authority is also facilitating smoother access for international vessels, further integrating Saudi waters into global maritime routes. The goal is to create a seamless luxury itinerary that extends across the region, with Saudi Arabia positioned as a central hub. As more marinas open – including two major facilities in November — the country hopes to redefine the luxury yacht experience.

This article was edited on 25 September 2025 to add more context around the discussion.