The Middle East Work Boats (MEWB) exhibition and conference which made a successful debut in 2008, expects some 170 exhibitors from 25 countries, a 50 per cent rise in participation.

Drydocks World, a Dubai World company and one of the most prominent names in the maritime industry, has announced its participation in the event.

It is the first time that the premier ship repair, conversion and new building group will be showcasing its capabilities at the exhibition, billed as the definitive workboat event for the Middle East, which is to be held in Abu Dhabi from October 5 to 7.

Drydocks World’s participation is based on current alliances within the regional maritime and offshore industries and the significance of the regional market in its global growth plans for 2010 and beyond.

“The Middle East is a significant market for all our yards and MEWB offers a great opportunity to showcase our capabilities. In particular, our flagship Middle Eastern facility, Drydocks World – Dubai has set new industry benchmarks in safety and quality standards, and we hope to generate more interest in these fields in this region,” stated Geoff Taylor, executive chairman, Drydocks World.

Drydocks World will highlight its expertise in handling a range of workboats including diving support vessels, maintenance support vessels, platform supply vessels, anchor handling tugs, fire rescue boats, offshore supply tugs, subsea operational vessels, super heavyweight construction vessels and topside maintenance vessels.

Particular emphasis will be placed on the yards’ capabilities in building large-sized specialised cable-laying, pipe-laying and maintenance barges and also floating cranes.-TradeArabia News Service