Emirates Post releases stamps on 25th anniversary of Drydocks World - Dubai

The stamps, issued in denominations of Dhs1 and Dhs 4, are available at all post offices in the UAE. In addition, First Day Covers of Dhs6 each, are available at the philatelic counters of Karama, Deira and Abu Dhabi post offices.

Dubai Drydocks was conceived and built as the world's largest ship repair yard under the direction and guidance of H.H. Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the late Ruler of Dubai, and was inaugurated by H. E Queen Elizabeth II in 1979, before becoming fully operational in 1983.

"Dubai Drydocks has played a pioneering role in the evolution of Dubai as the preferred maritime hub for vessels from around the world. More importantly, it has transformed itself into a modern and advanced ship repair facility," said Ibrahim Bin Karam, CEO of Emirates Post. "It richly deserves this philatelic tribute and we hope the stamps will perpetuate the unique achievements of Dubai Drydocks."

"Dubai Drydocks capitalized on its strategic location and has grown from strength to strength by completing some of the most challenging assignments over a quarter of a century of operations," said Mr. Nawal Saigal- Managing Director, Drydocks World- Dubai. "Progressively graduating from ship repair to complex conversions and new building jobs it is now taking on the world by expanding at a phenomenal rate, as part of the Dubai World entity - Drydocks World."

The new name signifies global aspirations; a focused approach to reach out to customers worldwide to promote value added services, a firm commitment to excellence while adding to Dubai's reputation as one of the fastest developing cities in the world.

Drydocks World - Dubai is located near the world's major oil terminals and container ports in the Middle East and it is easy for vessels to dock in without accruing deviation costs. Nearly half of the oil tankers that traverse the area stop over at Drydocks World-Dubai for regular repairs. Over the years, the yard's prominence has grown among the shipping fraternity and this has helped acquire a client base that stretches to all parts of the world.