During the 10th annual Boat Builder Awards, Gulf Craft Chairman Mohammed Alshaali was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2024 Boat Builder Awards ceremony, an event organized by business magazine IBI and trade show METSTRADE, was held at Amsterdam’s National Maritime Museum.
As the recipient of the Award, Mr. Alshaali was recognized for his contributions to the leisure marine sector in The Middle East and worldwide. The UAE-based boat builder Gulf Craft was founded in 1982, building small fishing boats before evolving into the luxury superyachting industry, building vessels up to 175 feet. Gulf Craft, at one point, accounted for almost 70% of the region’s leisure boat ownership, inestimably contributing to the Middle East leisure marine landscape, leading the way for better infrastructure and cruising grounds.
Commenting on the momentous occasion, Mr. Alshaali said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award and to join the ranks of past recipients who have shaped our industry. This recognition is a tribute to the Gulf Craft team—a family whose passion, creativity, and dedication have shaped our journey over the past 40 years, as we’ve grown from humble beginnings to a global leader in yacht and boat manufacturing, making this achievement possible. Thank you to IBI and all who have supported us on this incredible journey.”
With ovre 10,000 boats built, Gulf Craft operates a 462,000 sq ft production facility in Umm Al Quwain area, and recently announced the opening of a new 108,000-square-foot facility, which will be located in Ajman, UAE. The shipyard also finds a 100,000 sq ft facility in the Maldives.