FIFA World Cup Brings Real VIPs and Luxury Yachts to Dubai

Dubai pulls out all the stops for well-heeled football fans who want to watch the World Cup in style with a fleet of luxury yachts bobbing in the harbor.

From the top deck of a $20,000-per-night yacht, those without tickets can watch games on a big screen against a backdrop of the Gulf financial hub's skyline.

There is more than a hint of Dubai's trademark bling on the three-storey, 140-foot (43 metres) vessel, which boasts a big screen, jacuzzi, bar, and a swanky lounge with L-shaped couches and a sparkling crystal leopard statue.

In addition to offering more accommodation options and easy access to alcohol, the UAE city is among the Gulf destinations anticipating a spillover of World Cup fans.

Xclusive Yachts marketing manager Jainney Thakker pointed out the boat's features, saying it costs $20,000 for an overnight charter.

Thakker added that there is a chef on board offering gourmet cuisine from around the world, as well as "free-flowing champagne".

The boat, which can accommodate up to 125 people, is docked at Dubai's Marina Harbour, ready to receive the influx of fans once the tournament begins on Sunday.

With glass plates and silver cutlery, a large dining table surrounded by upholstered chairs is set in one of the hotel's rooms.

From the stern, a jacuzzi offers uninterrupted views. For anyone interested in sailing to Qatar during the World Cup, the same company offers a separate $100,000 package.

So far, Thakker's company has received more than 15 bookings per night, mostly for groups of two to three.

People who book with us are definitely the real VIPs... you know, supercar owners, some of the real creme (de la creme) of society.

The shores of Dubai are gearing up with fan zones at parks, beaches, and in the financial district, as well as special offers at hotels.

A standing space in a fan zone in Dubai Harbour with 330-square-metre screens costs $21.

Despite this, a lounge table for eight people costs more than $920, while a premium suite for 15 costs $3,676, including unlimited alcohol.

Dubai's well-cultivated reputation as a luxury destination is reinforced by a series of reality TV shows, including Netflix's "Dubai Bling".

According to Capital Economics, Dubai's and Abu Dhabi's luxury markets are most likely to benefit from the World Cup, excluding Qatar.

In comparison with other Gulf countries, it has a more liberal atmosphere, which attracts tourists," he said.

An entire hotel on the Palm island, shaped like a frond, will be dedicated to football fans.

In Dubai, it's not all champagne football. Due to the global inflation crisis, many residents say they will skip World Cup festivities to save money.

Tony, a 36-year-old Lebanese father of one, said he would subscribe to the World Cup games and watch them at home.