Onshore Fix

Drydocks World (DDW) is one of the most important shipyards in operation, and the largest of its kind in the Middle East. To what extent does its success increase regional wealth and development?

DDW is one of the world’s largest and busiest shipyards. Its success lies in receiving vessels from all over the world, including some of the largest. It has contributed greatly to the reputation of the Emirate as a key destination for the maritime and offshore sectors by handling projects of great significance, not only for the maritime industry, but also for the oil, gas, and energy sectors.

The company has seen rapid growth in different business lines. What were the drivers behind this incredible development?

The company has a very clear vision and strategy. Our leaders built on this strategy by developing implementation and action plans, which positioned the company as a competent, trustworthy, and reliable choice among global players. Our marketing initiatives are driven by a value-added proposition and enhanced benefits for our clients, whom we consider our business partners. We encourage innovation in all fields of our activity that would help us in streamlining and increasing the efficiency of our operations. We have implemented processes that are best-in-the-business to increase efficiency, meet targets, and achieve our goals.

DDW has continuously grown through new expansions. What new initiatives are you most excited about?

We have grown from strength to strength in the last few years, and have managed not only to sustain the business, but also to raise the level of service delivery. I am particularly excited about our recent initiative to establish the Dubai Council for Marine and Maritime Industries in collaboration with major regional players. This Council plans and implements economic strategies to promote Dubai and the UAE as a global hub for marine and maritime industries and services, as well as sea transportation.

How does DDW collaborate with government entities toward common success?

DDW is itself a government of Dubai entity, and all of our initiatives are aimed at promoting Dubai as an increasingly important global hub for the maritime industry. We work extremely closely with the Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs-Dubai and Dubai Customs, with whom we have signed MoUs to facilitate closer cooperation on a daily basis. We also work closely with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Roads and Transport Authority, National Transport Authority (RTA), the UAE Navy, and other departments that share our vision.

DDW is not only present in the Middle East, but also in Southeast Asia through its joint venture DDW-PaxOcean Asia. What kind of synergies do you develop among your different regions?

The synergies are clear. Both DDW and DDW-PaxOcean are aligned in the strategy and business-planning process. In addition to repairs and conversion, the yards are focused on the oil, gas, energy, and offshore new building and construction areas, including the building of highly sophisticated marine vessels and structures.

Why is it important to have a strong presence in Dubai?

We were set up in Dubai, confirming the far-sighted vision of our leaders. We have moved forward from merely being a repair yard to being one with an established and global reputation for conversions, shipbuilding, and offshore construction. The yard has implemented not only some of the largest projects ever undertaken, but also a number of world-first initiatives. The connectivity afforded by the Emirate, combined with its user-friendly business environment, is unmatched anywhere in the world.

How does DDW fit into the UAE’s Vision 2030?

Our vision and strategy for the year 2030 is clearly defined. We are driven to achieving the four Rs; re-focused thinking, re-engineered solutions, re-energized interest, and re-positioned execution, which we as a company continually strive to achieve. Our core theme is “Business Transformation through Continuous Innovation.”