Gulf Craft Embraces Cryptocurrency in Yacht and Leisure Craft Transactions
Dubai, UAE – July 2025: In a pioneering move that reflects the intersection of luxury maritime craftsmanship and modern financial technology, Gulf Craft has officially launched a fully regulated cryptocurrency payment solution designed for purchasing yachts and leisure craft. This development not only underscores the shipyard’s commitment to innovation but also enhances the United Arab Emirates’ rapidly growing reputation as a global leader in digital asset management.
Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman of Gulf Craft, articulated the significance of this initiative, stating, “By integrating ARP Pay, Gulf Craft not only meets evolving client preferences but also strengthens the UAE’s reputation for forward-looking manufacturing and financial innovation. The UAE has historically thrived on maritime trade and the early adoption of new ideas, making the embrace of regulated digital payments a natural progression.”
The cryptocurrency payment service is made possible through a partnership with ARP Pay, a Bahrain-licensed fintech provider. This innovative service facilitates the conversion of stablecoins, such as USDT and USDC, into United Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED) or US Dollars (USD). A recent pilot program allows clients to partially settle yacht purchases using cryptocurrency, effectively reducing transaction costs while enhancing satisfaction levels among international buyers—a demographic increasingly inclined towards digital asset transactions when making high-value purchases.
Erwin Bamps, Group CEO of Gulf Craft, emphasized the strategic advantages of incorporating a cryptocurrency payment option. “Adding a crypto option future-proofs our customer experience,” he explained. “We must stay ahead of the curve by adopting technologies that shape the future of commerce. By tapping into the growing segment of cryptocurrency holders who prefer using digital assets for transactions, we can offer our clients significant advantages. Whether clients are taking delivery of a Majesty or Nomad yacht or purchasing any vessel within our Oryx or SilverCAT ranges, they can now conduct their transactions swiftly, transparently, and in full compliance with regulatory standards.”
This strategic launch aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s ambition to position itself as the world’s most cryptocurrency-friendly nation. The framework is bolstered by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and the availability of free-zone exchanges, in addition to a highly skilled fintech workforce operating around the clock. Gulf Craft’s initiative not only caters to an evolving market but also augments the UAE’s status as a beacon of maritime and financial innovation.
As the regional and global economy increasingly gravitates towards integrating digital currencies into various sectors, the UAE finds itself at the forefront of this transformative movement. The country has introduced a series of regulatory measures to foster a secure environment for both businesses and consumers engaging in cryptocurrency transactions. This pro-active stance has attracted a multitude of fintech startups and established firms, further solidifying its reputation as a hub for technological advancement.
Moreover, the nautical industry is often seen as emblematic of wealth and luxury; therefore, incorporating cryptocurrency into yacht purchases represents a significant shift in consumer behavior. Clients who are accustomed to the convenience and anonymity that digital currencies provide may find this option particularly appealing, especially as the global economy continues to evolve in response to technological advancements.
Gulf Craft’s innovative decision not only aligns with consumer demand but also positions the company as an industry trailblazer. By embracing cryptocurrency, it lays the groundwork for a future where transactions are governed by efficiency and transparency, traits that resonate with the modern consumer’s expectations. The yacht and leisure craft sector stands to benefit immensely from this shift, as it opens doors to a previously untapped clientele, bolstering sales and stimulating growth.
As Gulf Craft sets sail into this new digital frontier, it does so not just as a manufacturer of luxury vessels but as a catalyst for change within the broader maritime and financial landscape. The convergence of sailing and fintech may merely be the beginning of a sea change—one that could redefine how luxury transactions are conducted across the globe.
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