Dubai's superyacht repair and refit facilities will be enhanced from October when the Industrial Precinct at Dubai Maritime City (DMC) finally starts operating.

The dedicated shipyard zone will have lift facilities capable of up to 6,000t along with 42 dry berths for vessels up to 100m.

Platinum Yachts plans to set up a base in DMC for new builds and refit while several other service companies have started relocating from Jadaf Dubai — a traditional centre of dhow constructions and smaller ship refit work.

With the growing number of yachts in the region DMC's facilities are anticipated to draw a good number of yachts needing work.

In Qatar, the Ras Laffan shipyard has also recently started operation. While this is mainly geared to dealing with commercial shipping, the building of yachts has not been ruled out.

The new yard — owned by Dutch shipbuilder Damen and Qatari government shipping group Nakilat — will be able to build vessels up to 120m.


Superyacht Business / David Robinson, 5 August 2010