31% growth in maritime business transactions in 2008

Back in mid-2008, the Authority launched its "Raseina" service, which is a one-stop-shop for all maritime-related transactions.

"This is a clear indication of the growing importance of the maritime sector within Dubai and the region," stated Amer Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Maritime City. "The increase of 31% in maritime transactions in 2008 compared to 2007 is a clear indicator of the growing importance of this sector in Dubai and the region."

Through the Raseina service, Dubai Maritime City Authority provides a centralised point of access for all maritime activities in the emirate, after taking over the responsibility in mid-2008. The service facilitates various transactions including registration of trade name, issuance of license, renewal of license and amendment of license.

The establishment of DMCA realises the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to create a fully integrated environment that supports the sustained development of Dubai's maritime sector and contributes to the development of the economy.

"Since we launched the Raseina service, which is the one-stop-shop for all maritime-related transactions, we aimed at showcasing our commitment to best practices within the maritime industry by raising the level of performance and exceeding the expectations of our clients in the global maritime sector,"

added Ali.

Meanwhile, Ali concluded by talking about Dubai Maritime City's participation in this year's Dubai International Boat Show by saying: "The event is considered the most important in the region for the boating industry with the region and world's largest companies being present, as figures indicate the rapid growth in leisure crafts entering the Gulf's waters, particularly Dubai. We at Dubai Maritime City will play a key role in absorbing boats and yachts to our marinas, which are spread across the project."