Emaar Hospitality Group, in partnership with Lootah Biofuels, has announced the launch of a sustainable fuel option for yachts at Dubai Marina Yacht Club (DMYC) and Creek Marina Yacht Club (CMYC). The move is among the first initiatives of its kind in the Gulf’s leisure marine sector, reports Zawya.com.
With this step, DMYC and CMYC have become some of the earliest marinas in the region to offer sustainable biofuel for recreational yachts. The initiative supports Emaar’s broader sustainability strategy and aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 targets.
As part of the collaboration, both marinas will supply Sustainable Bio Yacht Fuel (SBYF) produced by Lootah Biofuels. The fuel is made from used cooking oil collected from hotels, homes and Emaar’s mixed-use developments. The waste oil is processed into marine-grade biofuel, allowing yacht owners to refuel with a lower-impact alternative directly at their home marinas.
An official from Emaar Hospitality Group said the company aims to place sustainability at the centre of its marina and hospitality operations. He said the introduction of bio yacht fuel gives members a clear and practical option to reduce environmental impact, while also encouraging more responsible practices in the leisure marine sector.
The rollout of SBYF will be carried out in phases to ensure smooth operations, reliable supply and consistent fuel quality. Dedicated refuelling points will be set up at both DMYC and CMYC, giving yacht owners and club members easy access to the new fuel option.
Emaar said the initiative reflects its focus on realistic, locally relevant solutions to reduce emissions, rather than broad commitments. The partnership also highlights how waste materials can be reused within a circular system across hospitality, leisure and marine operations.
Lootah Biofuels, a UAE-based company that specialises in biodiesel made from used cooking oil, will manage the collection, processing and supply of the fuel to both marinas. The company said its biofuel solutions have shown clear reductions in carbon emissions compared to conventional marine fuels.
Lootah Biofuels’ chief executive said the partnership shows how locally sourced waste can be converted into valuable energy, supporting both environmental goals and operational efficiency in the UAE.
During the initial phase, sustainable refuelling at the two marinas will be offered on a scheduled basis, with scope for expansion depending on demand. The initiative is expected to contribute gradually to lowering carbon emissions from leisure boating activities in the region.
Dubai Marina Yacht Club already holds environmental certifications such as Fish Friendly and Clean Marina status, reflecting its commitment to responsible marine practices. The marina has also introduced a drinking water initiative using technology that converts moisture from the air into potable water, which has been supplying captains and crew for the past year. The launch of bio yacht fuel builds on these efforts and further strengthens Emaar’s sustainability plans for marine leisure.
Emaar said the project forms part of its ongoing effort to embed sustainability across its businesses. By working with Lootah Biofuels at both marinas, the company aims to support national climate goals while offering yacht owners a practical and responsible fueling choice.
An Emaar executive said the focus is on turning sustainability into real action, adding that the partnership represents a clear step toward cleaner and more environmentally friendly marine leisure experiences.
