EXPERT CRAFTSMEN – A CULTURE OF BOAT-BUILDING EXPERTISE

The Emiratis were building boats long before the discovery of oil in this part of the World and, in fact, long before oil was even known to man. Wooden ship-building goes as far back as medieval times as depicted in the “Hariri” Print dated 1237, showing a traditional Arab sailing ship called a “dhow”. You see, boat-building in the UAE was the most successful manufacturing industry during the pearl trading era and was the most traditional and even essential industry in that region of the world. Fishing and pearl hunting were the most prestigious and lucrative professions in the country and the coastal areas were home to a highly developed culture of ship-building craftsmen.

PRESENT-DAY UAE AND BOAT MANUFACTURING

Still today, you can find videos showing expertly skilled Emirati fishermen free-diving in search of pearls. Modern day culture in the United Arab Emirates reflects this rich heritage in the craftsmanship of the UAE’s modern boat-building industry. Many UAE boat builders have gained international fame, and a specific example of this acclaim is Gulf Craft, holding the much coveted position of 10th largest superyacht manufacturer in the World.  Gulf Craft’s success has propelled the UAE to the 9th largest superyacht building nation (source:  2014 Global Order Book).

A TOP POSITION IN THE WORLD MARKET

This position puts the UAE superyacht construction ahead of Greece and closing in on their gigantic competitor, China. (Source: 2014 Global Order Book)

It will be interesting to see how this country ranking will evolve in the coming decade. One thing we know for sure is that the growth momentum of the boat-building industry in the Emirates is on an upward trajectory with no end in sight.

A STRATEGY FOR AN EVER-EXPANDING MARKET

Smart Own is contributing to this growth by raising awareness among emerging maritime industry markets around the World. We promote and distribute the best UAE-made passenger boats, utility boats and water taxis to Africa, the Caribbean, Central and Latin America and South Asia. UAE-made passenger boats can be seen up and down the coast in Mexico and Aruba.  Here’s the world famous Touring 36 seen here with our client Wahoo Express in Cancun, Mexico:

(Video courtesy of Wahoo Express)

SOUND REASONS TO INVEST IN UAE MADE BOATS

In addition to the exceptional quality of boat engineering and design offered by the UAE boat-building industry, there are other factors that make buying a boat made in the UAE compelling. Take for instance,  the tax free environment and how it affects pricing. UAE-made boats sell 30% to 40% cheaper than their European counterparts of comparable quality, construction and equipment. Another factor encouraging buyers to purchase boats in the UAE is Dubai’s geographical location and its status as an international trading hub. Shipping a boat out of the UAE is reliable, cost efficient and fast.

If you still need convincing, then consider this. Approximately 71% of Earth’s surface is covered by water and remains highly unexploited. Seas, rivers and oceans aren’t subject to tolls. They require no maintenance and they never get congested. It is clear that the water transport industry is destined to see immense growth in the near future and with it, all related businesses. With its extensive fleet of UAE-made boats and industry expertise, Smart Own is well-equipped and strategically positioned to play a key role in this coming wave of transport-industry evolution.