Gulf Craft Expands Leisure Boat Production with New Waterfront Facility in Ajman
New manufacturing site strengthens UAE’s position in the global recreational boating market
Gulf Craft is preparing to open a new waterfront production facility dedicated to its Leisure Craft division in Ajman, close to where the company was originally founded in 1982.
The new facility will produce models from Gulf Craft’s leisure brands, including Oryx cabin cruisers and SilverCat power catamarans, supporting rising global demand for recreational boats, multihulls, and versatile leisure vessels.
Growing Global Demand for Recreational Boats
The expansion comes amid strong growth in the global recreational boating industry, which was valued at approximately $37.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at nearly 6% annually in the coming years.
Within this expanding market, demand is shifting toward leisure boats that offer:
- Greater onboard space
- Enhanced stability
- Flexible layouts for modern lifestyles
SilverCat meets this demand with wide-beam twin-hull catamarans, while Oryx targets the growing popularity of cabin cruisers with larger interiors and multi-purpose living spaces.
Strategic Waterfront Location in Ajman
Located directly on the Ajman waterfront, the new Gulf Craft facility spans 10,000 square meters (107,000 sq ft) and is designed to improve production efficiency.
Key advantages include:
- Immediate sea access for vessel launch and testing
- Faster build cycles and streamlined operations
- Efficient sea trials, commissioning, and delivery
This strategic setup enhances Gulf Craft’s ability to scale production while maintaining high quality and operational efficiency.
Supporting Marine Tourism and Coastal Growth
The expansion reflects broader growth in leisure boating across the Gulf region, driven by:
- Expanding waterfront developments
- Rising marine tourism
- Increasing interest in coastal lifestyles
Positioned between Asia, Africa, and Europe, the United Arab Emirates provides a strategic hub for Gulf Craft to serve global markets while staying close to emerging boating destinations and coastal communities.
Strengthening UAE’s Maritime Industry
With this new facility, Gulf Craft reinforces its role as a leading boat manufacturer in the UAE, supporting the country’s growing maritime sector and increasing global demand for luxury and leisure marine vessels.
The expansion highlights the UAE’s continued rise as a key player in marine manufacturing, yacht production, and recreational boating innovation.
About Gulf Craft Group:
Gulf Craft Group is a global leader in yacht and boat manufacturing, with a portfolio that includes Gulf Craft, Gulf Craft Maldives, and Superyacht Service Centre.
The Group delivers custom-built leisure and commercial vessels to clients worldwide, supported by integrated service and maintenance solutions.
Its core brand oversees premium names such as Majesty Yachts, Nomad Yachts, Oryx Cruisers, and SilverCAT Boats, offering vessels from 32 to 175 feet with advanced engineering and world-class design.
Founded in 1982, Gulf Craft operates major shipyards in Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, and the Maldives, and has built over 10,000 boats, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global marine industry.
Source and Photo Credit: Gulf Craft Group.
