UAE: MASTECH Sparks Shipbuilders’ Interest

The third MASTECH naval architecture and shipbuilding conference was held on the first two days of the Gulf Maritime trade exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah, attracting nearly 700 delegates and presenting over 15 technical papers in five sessions and a panel discussion.

Held under the patronage of Sharjah Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qassimi, the ninth Gulf Maritime exhibition was organised at Expo Centre Sharjah from November 25 to 27, 2013.

Apart from ports development, offshore design and energy efficiency, the speakers also stressed the importance of maritime and offshore safety and energy efficiency that regional companies need to focus on.

“Sharjah is known for its reliability in doing business with, thanks to many interactive events where people can meet and conclude deals. The MASTECH conference alongside Gulf Maritime attracted many quality visitors, helping facilitate networking and striking deals,” said Mr. Sunil Gangadharan, Business Development Manager, Sharjah Department of Seaports & Customs, Seaports Authority.

The regional maritime sector is poised for exceptional growth, given the rise in demand for oil & gas and massive increase in trade activities and infrastructure projects expected in the run up to key international events in the region, according to maritime executives who attended the just-concluded Gulf Maritime.

While the oil & natural gas sector in the Middle East will see a flurry of activities on the back of US$1.6 trillion in new investments over the next 25 years, the preparations for World Expo 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup will require billions of dollars in expenditure, thus generating tens of thousands of jobs and facilitating trade activities.

“Together, these international events will generate massive opportunities for the regional maritime sector. Regional ports, shipping and logistics sectors will be direct beneficiaries, along with other industries like real estate, hospitality, tourism and trade,” said Mr. Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah.

Riding on rising trade activity, offshore developments, port expansions and container traffic and the plethora of opportunities they offer, Gulf Maritime attracted 2890 visitors during its three-day run.

Prisma Electronics SA from Greece, which took part in the exhibition for the first time, was impressed with the visitor turnout and response it received. “As new exhibitor, we feel that the Gulf Maritime exhibition is an important stop for us to access the UAE market and to generate new businesses,” said Mr. Stefanos Chartomatzides, IS/IT Consultant, Prisma Electronics SA.

[mappress]
Press Release, December 5, 2013