Gulf Craft to accept regulated crypto payments

Becomes the first MENA Shipyard to introduce the crypto payment regimen

Gulf Craft now offers a fully regulated crypto-payment solution for yacht and leisure craft purchases, service and refit works, reinforcing both the shipyard’s appetite for innovation and the UAE’s growing stature as a global hub for digital assets.

“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,” affirmed Mohammed Hussein Alshaali, Chairman, Gulf Craft.

“The UAE was built on maritime trade and early adoption of new ideas. Embracing regulated digital payments is a natural next step,” he added.

Client satisfaction

Developed with Bahrain-licensed fintech provider ARP Pay, the service converts stablecoins such as USDT and USDC into AED or USD. A recent pilot allowed a part of a yacht purchase price to be settled in cryptocurrency, cutting transaction costs and improving client satisfaction among international buyers, according to a press communique.

“Adding a crypto option future-proofs our customer experience,” asserted Erwin Bamps, Group CEO, Gulf Craft. “Whether a client is taking delivery of a Majesty or Nomad yacht or purchasing any boat or power catamaran across our Oryx or SilverCAT ranges, they can now transact through a channel that is fast, transparent and fully compliant,” he continued.

The launch aligns with UAE’s ambition to become the world’s most crypto-friendly country, supported by VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) regulations, free-zone exchanges and a 24/7 fintech talent pool. Gulf Craft’s new payment pathway will offer clients greater flexibility while further positioning the UAE at the forefront of maritime and financial innovation, the press statement concluded.