Gulf Craft, UAE`s leading manufacturer of yachts and boats, celebrated its 20th anniversary yesterday (Wednesday, 29th January 2003) with…
Gulf Craft, UAE`s leading manufacturer of yachts and boats, celebrated its 20th anniversary yesterday (Wednesday, 29th January 2003) with a function at its Ajman factory attended by His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council in the UAE and Ruler of Ajman.
Mohammed Bin Hussein Al Shaali, Chairman of Gulf Craft, delivered the inaugural address on the occasion and announced an ambitious expansion plan that will see the company setting up new factories and opening sales outlets in more countries across the globe. HE Mohammed Jassem Mzaki, Undersecretary UAE Ministry of Economy and Commerce, HE Khalifa Mohammad Al Muwajei, Vice Chairman of Ajman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and HE Abdullah Al Qubaisy, Assistant Undersecretary, UAE Ministry of Industry also addressed the illustrious gathering at the event. The anniversary celebrations included the screening of a documentary film highlighting the history and achievements of Gulf Craft.
The 20th anniversary celebrations are a fitting occasion to ponder about our achievements and move on to the next phase, said Al Shaali. Our commitment to providing our valuable customers with quality and superior products is evident with the strong focus that we are laying on expansion. The new factory that we intend to inaugurate in Umm Al Quwain later this year will solely specialize in the manufacture of high-class yachts. Yet another major achievement for us was the opening of our first Asian factory in Maldives last year, which is spread across 100,000 square feet with an initial manufacturing capacity of six boats per month. Due to the interest displayed by our international customers, we are also set to expand our sales network from the current figure of 30 countries.
All of this would not have been possible without the support of His Highness President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Humaod bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman. We would like to convey our gratitude to them for rendering their support, which has been a constant source of motivation to upgrade our products and work harder to meet our targets and objectives, added Al Shaali.
Gulf Craft began operations on a small scale in 1982 to produce 15-feet and 19-feet boats to cater to the local market. From that small beginning, Gulf Craft has grown into an international manufacturer of top-quality yachts for global clientele, thus winning customers in the American, Asian as well as European markets. The recently launched 118 series of yachts have gained widespread acclaim for its innovative and cutting-edge features. One of its star achievements is the Millennium 118 yacht series, which packs all the elements of luxury, style and comfort, thus successfully positioning it in the top league. The elegant yacht has been crafted by the internationally renowned naval architect Frank Mulder and leading interior decorator Evan Marshall.
The first of the 118 series was sold to an American businessman even before the construction was completed. After the initial success, we have received four additional orders for building yachts. Despite fierce competition, we were recently awarded a prestigious contract by an Australian businessman for the 118, which will be delivered in the year 2005, he said.
Gulf Craft was formed with a vision of producing distinctive vessels for the local market, inspired by the skills of our forefathers, said Al Shaali. That vision still guides us in creating customer-friendly vessels, aided by extensive use of modern technology. Growth and higher demand have enabled us to produce bigger vessels as well as increase our annual production capacity to 200 boats and yachts. Our staff is made up of over 300 qualified professionals in the production, marketing and management departments.
Gulf Craft has been winning several accolades for its innovatively designed vessels. Recognition has come from international bodies like the US Coast Guard and the European Community, who have vouched for the quality of Gulf Craft boats and yachts. The induction as member of key international organizations involved in the benchmarking of boat and yacht industry standards is a source of added prestige to the company.
We have closely followed the achievements and developments of Gulf Craft. It has carved a niche for itself in the country and is currently ranked as one of the leading international marine companies, said HE Abdullah Al Qubaisy, Assistant Undersecretary, Ministry of Industry, UAE. Gulf Craft has demonstrated its commitment to maintain worldwide stringent quality standards, thus offering its customers a range of superior marine vessels. The company is now exporting its yachts and boats all over the world. Having made significant waves in the industry, Gulf Craft has indeed established high quality benchmarks for other local companies to follow, he added.
Boat building is an art that requires commitment and expertise, said Al Shaali. Gulf Craft has demonstrated its success in blending the traditional styles with modern technology and comforts, which has enabled us to produce unique boats and yachts for the discerning buyer. In 20 years, Gulf Craft has emerged as the leading boat builder in the region.
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