Presence of more than 80 boat and yachts manufacturers in the Arabian Gulf boost regional marine industry

This was announced recenlty by Jamal Al Shaali, Chairman, GC Marine Yacht and Boat, prior to their participation at the Dubai International Boat Show, which will be held from March 15 -19, 2005, the Middle East region's most exclusive gathering of international boat manufacturers, buyers and enthusiasts.

"The Gulf region has had a long historical association with the marine industry and boat building has been a major acitvity of the region since several decades. The boat show will be of immense significance to the Middle East region, as a result of the increasing marina developments and construction of waterfront projects in several GCC Countries," said Al Shaali. "Dubai's worldclass waterfront and off-shore property developments has already attracted leading players from the marine industry, who are eager to plug the demand gap for marine vessels as these projects go on-stream. There are more than 12,000 boats and yachts currently in the Arabian Gulf and the remarkable growth in the number of participants in this year's boat show, is proof of boat and yacht industry boom in the region."

"At present there are more than 80 companies in the Arabian Gulf who are involved in the manufacture of boats and yachts, which significantly contributes in promoting the region's boating industry," added Al Shaali.

A recent research report showed that the UAE was the number one boat and yacht manufacturing country in the entire Gulf region. The report also revelaed that there is considerable demand for boats manufactured by the Gulf countries, as more than 15 per cent of the vessels made in the region was exported.

"Gulf countries mainly manufacture medium sized boats, which range from 30-60 feet in length. This is primarily because most berths in the region can accommodate only medium sized boats. Several countries in the Middle East, including Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have recently undertaken major marine development projects, which will further enhance the marine industry in the Gulf," commented Al Shaali.

"Dubai's marine industry is poised for tremendous growth, especially after the completion of several major tourist and commercial projects. The upcoming 'World' development will have two major marinas, while the 'Palm' project will have six marina that will boost the growth of the marine sector," added Al Shaali.

Commenting on GC Marine's impressive performance, Al Shaali said, "Even though we began operations only a year ago, we are proud of what we have achieved in this period. We have manufactured over 100 boats and we already have a confirmed order book for another 50 boats. G C Marine has been adhering to international quality standards and uses latest engineering tools while designing aerodynamic bodies for its boats and yachts. This ensures high levels of safety in extreme sea conditions and it allows sailing at different speeds."

Jamal Al Shaali is a member of the prominent Al Shaali family, who have had a long and historic association with the marine industry. Al Shaali has made a significant contribution to developing the marine industry, by being the first to manufacture and promote locally manufactured boats and yachts to the international market. The proposed plant will begin operations by building a 100 feet yacht.

GC Marine has received the European Conformity (CE) marking which indicates that the product complies with all European product directives. It is a member of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and the Arab Marine Industries Association (AMIA). The company has also been awarded the TUV CERT ISO 9001 : 2000 certification.

"During the Dubai International Boat Show, we will be launching four new models, which will generate a lot of interest among marine enthusiasts. In addition we will be presenting new yacht designs like the Adora 53, designed by the internationally renowned designer John Berrit. We will also be finalising some important business deals at the exhibition," concluded Al Shaali.