Freedom Boat Club Enters Middle East Market with Launch of Dubai Harbour Location

Rhea-AI Summary

Freedom Boat Club, a Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) business, announced its expansion into the Middle East with the launch of Freedom Boat Club of Dubai, scheduled to open in Fall 2025. The club will be located in the award-winning Dubai Harbour marina, situated between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah.

The Dubai location will be operated by franchise partner Baker Almasabey, a former Freedom member in Canada with extensive business experience. The club will feature a premium fleet of Brunswick-branded boats, including Sea Ray and Boston Whaler vessels powered by Mercury Marine engines. The expansion plan includes opening three locations across Dubai by the end of 2026.

Positive

• Strategic expansion into high-potential Middle East boating market
• Year-round boating season in Dubai provides continuous operational potential
• Ambitious growth plan with 3 locations planned by end of 2026
• Premium fleet featuring Brunswick-branded boats

Negative

• None.

Insights

Global Business Expansion Strategist

Brunswick's Freedom Boat Club enters Middle East market with Dubai expansion, strategically positioning for growth in a premium boating region.

Brunswick Corporation is expanding its Freedom Boat Club business into the Middle East with a new location in Dubai Harbour, set to open in Fall 2025. This marks the company's first entry into this region, extending its boat club subscription model into a market with significant growth potential.

The strategic value of this expansion is multi-layered. Dubai offers year-round boating weather, over 70 kilometers of natural coastline extended by nearly 500 kilometers of artificial islands, and represents the second-largest economy in the UAE. The chosen location at Dubai Harbour—an award-winning marina positioned between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah—provides premium positioning in this luxury market.

This franchise-based expansion demonstrates Brunswick's capital-efficient growth strategy, partnering with local entrepreneur Baker Almasabey who brings regional knowledge and business experience. The press release reveals an accelerated growth timeline, with plans to open three locations across Dubai by the end of 2026, suggesting confidence in the market potential.

Importantly, the new club will feature Brunswick-branded boats including Sea Ray and Boston Whaler powered by Mercury Marine engines—all Brunswick Corporation brands—creating vertical integration opportunities. This represents a strategic approach to international growth that leverages the company's full product ecosystem while expanding its recurring revenue subscription model into new territories.

DUBAI, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freedom Boat Club, the world’s largest boat club and a Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) business and brand, today announced its expansion into the Middle East market with the upcoming launch of Freedom Boat Club of Dubai, set to open in Fall 2025.

Strategically located in Dubai Harbour, the new club marks a significant milestone in Freedom Boat Club’s international development, extending its presence into one of the most vibrant and high-potential boating markets in the region.

“Expanding into Dubai marks a major milestone for Freedom Boat Club as we continue to bring our world-class boating experience to new global markets,” said Arturo Gutierrez, General Manager of Freedom Boat Club for the EMEA region. “Dubai is a natural fit for Freedom.  Its dynamic coastline, growing community, and passion for luxury and lifestyle make it an ideal location for our first club in the Middle East.”

Freedom’s first Dubai location will be owned and operated by franchise partner, Baker Almasabey. Born and raised in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Baker brings a unique blend of regional insight and international business acumen. As a Freedom member in Canada, Baker was inspired by his love for boating and a desire to bring the concept closer to home. Baker previously founded a logistics company in Canada, growing to over 120 employees and expanding operations across Calgary and Vancouver. His experience managing large fleets and delivering customer-centric service positions him well to bring Freedom’s established experience to Dubai.

“As a longtime boater and Freedom member, I’ve seen firsthand how the club makes the boating lifestyle accessible and effortless,” said Baker Almasabey. “I’m thrilled to introduce this experience to Dubai’s vibrant waterfront community and build something that brings people together on the water, all year round.”

Dubai’s appeal is multi-faceted boasting the second-largest economy in the UAE, high population density and a year-round boating season. With more than 70 kilometers of natural coastline extended by nearly 500 kilometers of artificial islands, the city offers unparalleled access to the water. Dubai Harbour, the home of Freedom Boat Club of Dubai, has been recognized as “International Marina of the Year” and stands as a premier waterfront destination between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah.

At launch, members of Freedom Boat Club of Dubai will have access to a premium fleet of Brunswick-branded boats, including Sea Ray and Boston Whaler, all powered by Mercury Marine engines.

The club has an accelerated path for growth with plans of opening three locations across Dubai by the end of 2026. To explore founding membership opportunities at Freedom Boat Club of Dubai, contact the Club at Dubai.Harbour@freedomboatclub.com. Stay up to date with the latest news, events, and grand opening details by following the Club on Instagram and TikTok at @FreedomBoatClubDubai.

About Freedom Boat Club  

Founded in 1989, Freedom Boat Club, a business of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), is the world’s largest boat club, offering a hassle-free boating experience at more than 400 locations across 35 U.S. states, Canada, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Australia, and New Zealand. Members enjoy unlimited access to a wide variety of well-maintained boats and the benefit of premium dockside service. With an innovative membership model, Freedom Boat Club provides boaters of all levels the freedom to explore the water, experience adventure, and enjoy the boating lifestyle. For more information, visit www.FreedomBoatClub.com or learn more about franchise opportunities at www.FreedomBoatClubFranchise.com.  

Michelle
Voss —
 
Director, Global Public Relations & Communications
M: (904) 955 – 0818

FAQ

When will Freedom Boat Club open its first location in Dubai?

Freedom Boat Club of Dubai is scheduled to open in Fall 2025 at Dubai Harbour.

How many Freedom Boat Club locations are planned for Dubai by 2026?

The company plans to open three locations across Dubai by the end of 2026.

What types of boats will be available at Freedom Boat Club Dubai?

The club will offer a premium fleet of Brunswick-branded boats, including Sea Ray and Boston Whaler vessels, all powered by Mercury Marine engines.

Who will operate the Freedom Boat Club Dubai location?

The Dubai location will be owned and operated by franchise partner Baker Almasabey, a former Freedom Boat Club member from Canada with business experience in logistics.

Where will the first Freedom Boat Club Dubai location be situated?

The first location will be at Dubai Harbour, an award-winning 'International Marina of the Year' situated between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah.