Gulf Craft Opens New Boat Building Facility

Gulf Craft Opens New Boat Building Facility

2026-04-02

Gulf Craft Expands Leisure Boat Production with New Waterfront Facility in Ajman

UAE-based yacht builder Gulf Craft is set to expand its manufacturing capabilities with the launch of a new dedicated waterfront facility in Ajman, reinforcing its position in the growing global recreational boating market. Located near the company’s original founding site in 1982, the new production hub will focus on Gulf Craft’s Leisure Craft division. The facility will manufacture popular models from its leisure brands, including Oryx cabin cruisers and SilverCat power catamarans, as the company responds to increasing global demand for versatile and high-performance recreational boats. Rising Demand in the Global

The expansion comes at a time of steady growth in the global recreational boating industry, which was valued at approximately $37.4 billion in 2024. Market forecasts indicate the sector is expected to grow at nearly 6% annually in the coming years. A key trend driving this growth is the rising preference for leisure boats that offer greater onboard space, enhanced stability, and flexible layouts. SilverCat catamarans cater to this demand with their wide-beam, twin-hull designs, delivering improved balance and comfort. Meanwhile, Oryx cabin cruisers appeal to modern boaters seeking increased interior space and versatile living features for extended trips on the water.

The new Gulf Craft facility spans approximately 10,000 square metres (107,000 square feet) and is strategically located directly on the Ajman waterfront. This prime location provides immediate sea access, allowing vessels to be launched, tested, and commissioned directly from the production site. This streamlined approach is expected to significantly improve build efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and enhance overall delivery processes—key advantages in meeting rising global demand.

Gulf Craft’s expansion also reflects the rapid development of leisure boating and marine tourism across the UAE, the wider Gulf region, and neighbouring coastal markets. Increased investment in waterfront destinations, marinas, and tourism infrastructure is driving interest in recreational boating as both a lifestyle and leisure activity. With its strategic geographic position between Asia, Africa, and Europe, the UAE continues to serve as a global hub for marine manufacturing and maritime tourism. Gulf Craft’s new Ajman facility strengthens its ability to scale production while remaining closely connected to emerging cruising destinations and expanding coastal communities.

By investing in advanced production infrastructure, Gulf Craft is not only enhancing its manufacturing capabilities but also contributing to the UAE’s growing reputation as a key player in the global marine industry. As demand for leisure boats and multihull vessels continues to rise, the company’s latest expansion positions it to capture new opportunities while supporting the long-term growth of recreational boating worldwide.