Danube Building Materials expands Gulf presence by launching operations in Bahrain

The new venture, aimed at tapping the construction boom in Bahrain and neighbouring Saudi Arabia, has targeted a turnover of AED 50 million in the first year of operations.

Danube's Bahrain operations also include a melamine press unit with a capacity of 1,500 sheets per day and Kiln Dried chambers with a capacity of 200 cubic metres. The warehouse will have a large capacity to store bulk stock to meet the rising demand in the two GCC states.

"Our foray into Bahrain is an important part of our expansion in the Gulf," said Rizwan Sajan, Chairman of Danube Building Materials. "We foresee a spurt in demand for building materials, as a large number of mega projects are under construction in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. As Danube is already a major player in the industry, we expect to capture a sizable share of the market."

Bahrain is in the midst of frenetic construction activity. Among the major projects underway are Bahrain Financial Harbour, Pearl Tower, Al Areen Spa Resort & Park, Durrat Al Bahrain, Amwaj Gateway Hotel and Lulu Island. Bahrain is also building the Gulf's first multi-million dinar super-yacht hotel.

"The move to start operations in Bahrain has generated highly positive response among consultants, architects, interior decorators and contractors in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, as they now have a one-stop source for all their requirements of wood, MDF and sanitary products,"

said Mr. Sajan.

Operating from its head office in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Danube covers the Gulf with a network comprising two branches in Dubai, two in Muscat, two in Abu Dhabi, one in Sharjah and one in Al Ain. Danube's next target is Qatar, which is experiencing a construction boom.

"Our commitment to quality and customer care, combined with arrangements with leading suppliers, have made us a prominent name in the construction industry," said Sajan. "Besides construction materials, our product range includes high end sanitary products, including massage bathtubs with built-in DVD and shower rooms."

Danube's Bahrain foray comes on the heels of the launch of Indian operations last month, with a branch in Mumbai, one of the fastest growing real estate markets in the world. Danube also has operations in China with two branches.