At this year’s Qatar Boat Show, maritime and logistics solutions company Qatar Navigation (Milaha) has agreed with the Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) to construct The Milaha Yacht Yard, a new shipyard at Qatar’s Marsa Port. The facility will be located at Umm Alhoul Free Zone in Marsa Port and will span 22,000 square meters. To provide refits, modifications, repairs, and exterior upgrades for luxury yachts, naval ships, and wooden boats, the facility will find multiple workshops, two covered sheds, and an open yard.
The announcement of Milaha Yacht Yard comes at a time when there is an increased demand for refit services in The Middle East, occasioned by the rise of the region as a superyacht destination. In addition, the project positions Qatar as a leading maritime hub.
Located in Marsa Port, Umm Alhoul Free Zone is situated next to Hamad Port, Qatar’s main seaport and the world’s biggest greenfield seaport, only 20 minutes away from central Doha.
“This important agreement, signed today with Qatar Navigation Company (Milaha), underscores our efforts to contribute to the development of Qatar’s maritime sector by fostering innovation and creating new investment opportunities in the region.” said CEO of QFZ Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Faisal Al Thani, who, along with several government officials and members of Milaha, was present for the occasion.
RELATED: Gulf Craft Announces Plans for New Facility in the UAE
This marks the second announcement of a superyacht facility at the Qatar Boat Show. UAE-based builder Gulf Craft announced the opening of a new facility by the end of this year in Ajman, UAE The facility is set to include a natural water depth of 8 meters, a 600-ton Cimolai travel lift, capable of handling yachts up to 600 tons, and an additional 75-ton travel lift for smaller vessels. Elsewhere, with an 80-meter alongside berth, Gulf Craft will be able to conduct in-water repairs of larger yachts, and four 60-meter yacht berths.
