Septech, one of the region’s most prominent water infrastructure specialists, is seeking to boost their Abu Dhabi-based Marine business following their presence at the 2010 Abu Dhabi Yacht Show.
“Globally marina development has suffered enormously from the economic downturn, but in contrast we’re seeing a marked growth in demand from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” said Bruce Birtwistle. “We estimate that the drop in the global demand has reduced revenues by 20 percent; we’re fortunate to be operating in one of the few markets still showing forward progress on marine development.”
“Our competitors have realized the shift too, but with our proven track record here in Abu Dhabi - particularly the incredible work we’ve done here at the Yas - our product is able to speak for itself,” said Birtwistle – referring to the Septech constructed Yas Marina where the 2010 Abu Dhabi Yacht Show is being hosted. “When developers get a chance to see this facility, we’re confident that we’ll be at the top of their list when they begin looking for someone to handle the construction and servicing of their marinas.”
Septech’s Dubai-based marine unit is focusing on export through 2010. Recent project wins in Oman for other business in the Septech portfolio have opened the door for the marine unit to focus on Muscat, and new projects are increasingly cropping up in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
“We’re very realistic in our outlook. Whilst the pace of marina development has certainly slowed with the contraction of the regional property development market, we nonetheless feel confident our business position and our exclusive partnerships leave us well placed to succeed in the current market, especially as developers become more discerning in their choice of suppliers,” said Birtwistle.
Bellingham Marine the provider of the world’s best know pontoon systems, Unifloat, and Pacsoft, a marina systems management provider, all work with Septech exclusively in the region. The partnerships allow Septech to offer turnkey solutions to developers and contractors seeking a single vendor to manage their marine project.
In addition to the Yas Marina, completed prior to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Septech is currently constructing two marinas in Dubai and a variety of fishing harbours in Oman.
