Middle East marinas 'unparalleled' says Australian expert

Bate, a civil engineer, who brings 12 years of marina experience to the IGY team, is one of only 200 marina managers certified by the International Marina Institute in the US and will manage the expansion of IGY marina operations in the Middle East, being involved at the planning stages and being responsible for the ongoing management.

Bate says the Middle East and specifically Dubai, where the majority of development is currently being focused, is in the beneficial position of being able to start with a clean sheet and learn from the rest of the world.

"Local developers can plan land-use effectively, and together with experienced water-front development partners like IGY, tap into international experience and expertise to deliver a product that is unparalleled else where in the world."

'If one compares Australia's marina industry to that of Dubai, the sector here is under going huge transformation from small independent businesses to something much more professional and lucrative. Dubai has the benefit of being able to start off on a stronger footing."

"The exciting aspect of working with Middle Eastern developers is that they plan with foresight and are willing to heavily invest in infrastructure, ensuring that facilities exceed international standards. The region also attracts a large pool of international investors specifically looking for premium offerings like that of IGY's Anchor Marina on the Palm Jumeirah."

Bate says "Anchor Marina will be unique, with a high level of services available to the marina customers 24-hours a day, 7-days-a-week. Dock masters and managers will work around the clock to ensure that every boat owner is met at their car or boat at any time of day.

"The marina user is more demanding than ever before. They are looking for an active rather then passive facility that incorporates club houses, restaurants, cafes, a place where they can entertain, shop, or have a boat repaired or reconditioned - all with seamless ease."

This is the standard IGY is setting. They employ the best engineers who produce stunning designs and employ top class marina managers," says Bate.

Luxurious additions like LED illumination, underwater lighting, wireless internet connections and bespoke concierge services are part and parcel of IGY marinas and the Middle East's 'marina experience', driven by IGY.

Additionally, every cleat on the 582 berth Anchor marina is stainless steel and accessible via a 6m wide concourse. There will be 10 buggies on standby to allow easy access to yachts, 24-hours a day.

"Dubai real estate developers have had the foresight to see the potential to drive investment and tourism through waterfront facilities and they are doing this aggressively to keep up with and in fact exceed international and local consumer expectations," Bate adds.