DP World UAE Region has signed a contract with Emirates Boats LLC to build a new prototype pilot boat for its Marine Department at Jebel Ali Port. A new generation of 50 foot long inflatable pilot boats with a top speed of 38 knots able to carry nine people and built to the same design could follow after testing the prototype.

Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World UAE Region signed the contract with Jamal Fahad Hazaa, Emirates Boats Chairman, at Jebel Ali. The ceremony was attended by DP World UAE Region Chief Operating Officer

Mohammed Ali Ahmed, Esam Mohammed Khoori, Director of new Terminal 3 and Captain Ahmed bin Dalmook, Assistant Harbour Master, Jebel Ali Port. Palumbo Christian, Emirates Boats General Manager, was also present.

HE Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman, DP World, said: We support UAE manufacturers who have the ability to meet our international standards. They are playing a significant role in the nation's achievements and we are committed to providing them with business opportunities. We have been guided and inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the United Arab Emirates Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, as a contributor to the economic development of the country and will take every opportunity to transfer this inspiration to other UAE companies.

The vessel will be built at the Emirates Boats' facility in Jebel Ali under the supervision of experienced marine engineers. Eco-friendly design elements will be implemented to meet international marine standards and regulations.

Jamal Fahad Hazaa, Chairman, Emirates Boats LLC, said: We are delighted to have the opportunity to work closely with DP World on this project. Jebel Ali Port is a prominent landmark in UAE and the wider Middle East region. We will put

every effort in building this prototype to showcase our capabilities to the fullest. The design employs the latest technologies of our industry, coupled with a high quality finish and includes enhanced safety measures for the crew. Mohammed al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World UAE Region, said: The new boat is a result of a year-long collaborative effort between our marine, technical and operations departments at Jebel Ali Port and the Emirates Boats design and research teams. The design will include the latest solutions available in the boat industry with a high quality finish and comfort together with increased safety for crews during operations.

Pilot boats are used to transport pilots to and from ships that are entering or leaving the port. DP World has a team of around 50 pilots handling over 1,000 vessel calls at Jebel Ali every month.