GC Marine announces plant expansion
By IBI Magazine
GC Marine announced today that it intends to build a new 12,500sq m facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in order to meet demand for boats and yachts in the Middle East. "The Gulf region has had a long historical association with the marine industry and boat building," said Jamal Al Shaali, chairman of GC Marine Yacht and Boat, in a release. He timed the announcement prior to the opening of the Dubai International Boat Show next week. "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 a boat and yacht industry boom in the region.' Al Shaali said there are over 80 boat and yacht manufacturers in the region, and that the UAE was the "number one" marine manufacturing country among them. According to a recent report, about 15 per cent of the boats manufactured there are exported. "Gulf countries mainly manufacture medium sized boats, which range from 30-60 feet in length, primarily because most berths in the region can accommodate only medium sized boats," said Al Shaali. But he noted that Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have recently undertaken major marina development projects to accommodate larger yachts. "Dubai's marine industry is poised for tremendous growth, especially after the completion of several major tourist and commercial projects," said Al Shaali. Al Shaali said that GC Marine began operations about a year ago, and has already manufactured over 100 boats, all CE-certified, with 50 more on order. The new plant will begin operations by building a 100-ft. yacht. The company said that it would launch four new models at the Dubai show, which runs from March 15-19, 2005.
(7 March 2005)
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