What do Gulf royals really own? A $450M Da Vinci, gold jets, super yachts, islands and more
TL;DR
Gulf
royals own record-breaking treasures like
Leonardo da
Vinci's
Salvator Mundi
and $500 million yachts.
Their collections span priceless art, private islands, million-dollar falcons, and gold-plated jets.
These possessions aren't just about showing off wealth, they carry deep meaning tied to status, heritage, and power.
When you think about wealth in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, it's on a scale that's hard to imagine.
The region's oil wealth laid the groundwork decades ago.
But since then, royal families have grown their fortunes far beyond oil, through global investments, real estate, art, and unique collectibles.
But it's not just about having expensive things. Many of these possessions symbolize something bigger, tradition, influence, pride, and power. Whether it's a half-billion-dollar painting or a private jet with gold fixtures, these items blend culture with personal luxury in ways few can match.
Here's a look at some of the most impressive, surprising, and symbolic possessions owned by GCC royals.
1. The $450 Million Painting That Stays Hidden
In 2017, Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci sold for $450.3 million, setting a world record for a painting. While the buyer wasn't officially confirmed, multiple sources including The New York Times and The Guardian point to Saudi Crown Prince
Mohammed bin Salman
(MBS). What makes this story even more fascinating? The painting hasn't been shown publicly since.
It's rumored to be kept on MBS's giant superyacht Serene, somewhere out at sea.
2. The $500 Million
Superyacht
With a Submarine
Speaking of Serene, this 439-foot yacht is more than a luxury vessel. It features two helipads (one converts into a pool), an indoor seawater swimming pool, a snow room (yes, real snow!), and even a mini-submarine. Originally built by Italy's Fincantieri and once owned by a Russian billionaire, the yacht was bought by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in 2015.
It perfectly combines comfort, security, and style.
3. Private Jets Fit for a King
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai's ruler, is well-known for his love of aviation. His private jets are legendary, fitted with gold-plated sinks, marble floors, and lounges that feel more like five-star hotel suites than aircraft. The Qatari royal family also has a dedicated fleet, Qatar Amiri Flight, with custom Boeing 747s and Airbus A340s tailored to their taste and comfort.
4. Watches Worth More Than Most Homes
In 2019, a unique Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime sold for over $31 million. While the buyer stayed anonymous, insiders say it likely belongs to a royal from Qatar or the UAE. These families also collect rare models from Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, and custom Rolexes that most of us will never see in stores.
5. Cars Like You've Never Seen Before
Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan from Abu Dhabi, nicknamed the 'Rainbow Sheikh,' owns a collection of more than 700 cars.
Many are on display at his private Emirates National Auto Museum. One of his most famous vehicles is a massive, drivable Dodge Power Wagon, 64 times bigger than the original. Meanwhile, Saudi royals are known to cruise in gold-wrapped Lamborghinis, Bugattis, and Ferraris, especially during summer trips to London, Paris, and Monaco.
6. Private Islands Scattered Around the Globe
Owning palaces is expected. But some GCC royals go a step further and own entire islands.
Qatar's Al Thani family reportedly holds islands in the Maldives, Seychelles, and Greece, including the well-known Oxia island. Dubai's royal family has exclusive villas on Palm Jumeirah and hidden homes on the World Islands, some so secret they don't even appear on public maps.
7. Falcons That Fly First Class
Falconry isn't just a sport in the Gulf, it's a powerful cultural tradition and status symbol. Falcons owned by royals can be worth over $1 million each.
These birds travel with their own passports and health certificates, often flying business class. Viral photos show falcons comfortably settled on Qatar Airways or Etihad flights, treated like true VIPs.
8. Racing Stables That Compete Worldwide
Dubai's Godolphin stable, owned by Sheikh Mohammed, is one of the most successful horse racing teams in the world. It boasts hundreds of thoroughbreds and competes in top international events like the Dubai World Cup and Royal Ascot.
For Gulf royals, horse racing connects modern sport with centuries-old desert traditions.
9. Jewelry and Thrones Hidden From the Public Eye
GCC royals are major clients of top jewelers from Paris, London, and Geneva. Many jewelry pieces are custom-made and never publicly shown. Reports mention thrones decorated with gold, ivory, and rare gems, crafted for private palace rooms. One Qatari princess is said to own a golden throne inspired by the Queen of Sheba, created by a renowned French design house.
10. Why These Possessions Matter Beyond Wealth
This isn't just about showing off. These assets have deep meanings, about identity, history, and leadership. A prized falcon, a grand painting, or a private island can symbolize centuries of culture and power. Many royal families use their wealth to support museums and cultural projects like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qatar Museums, building a legacy that goes beyond money.
FAQs
1. Who owns the world's most expensive painting, Salvator Mundi?
Though the buyer hasn't been officially named, most reports link it to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
It's thought to be kept on his superyacht Serene.
2. Do Gulf royals really have gold-plated private jets?
Yes. UAE's Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Qatar's royal family have private jets featuring gold sinks, marble bathrooms, and lavish lounges.
3. Why do Gulf royals invest so much in falcons and exotic cars?
Falconry and luxury cars represent heritage, prestige, and personal passion. They blend cultural tradition with status symbols.
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