Top 10 Ship Building Companies in UAE

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How does a country with vast deserts become a leader in global ship building? The UAE has rapidly transformed into a strategic maritime powerhouse, thanks to its investment in cutting-edge shipyards, industrial zones, and marine engineering expertise.

With an ideal location between East and West trade routes, the UAE now hosts some of the most advanced shipbuilding companies in the Middle East.

From commercial vessels to naval and offshore engineering projects, these companies are shaping the region’s maritime infrastructure. But with so many choices, which ones truly lead the industry?

In this blog, we explore the top 10 ship building companies in UAE for 2025, showcasing their strengths, specialties, and impact on the marine sector.

What Makes the UAE a Global Player in Ship building?

The UAE’s success in shipbuilding is built on a combination of geography, infrastructure, and policy. Located at the crossroads of major shipping routes, it offers unmatched access to Europe, Asia, and Africa.

This strategic advantage is backed by free zones, industrial cities like Musaffah and ICAD II, and government investment in maritime innovation.

Ship building companies in the UAE benefit from these supportive frameworks, enabling faster production timelines, access to skilled labour, and seamless logistics.

Additionally, companies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are equipped with world-class drydocks, heavy-duty cranes, and cutting-edge fabrication facilities.

With increasing focus on sustainability and digitalisation, the UAE is moving beyond being just a regional player—it’s competing with global marine giants. These factors collectively make the UAE a go-to destination for commercial and custom vessel construction.

How Do UAE Ship builders Support Offshore and Energy Sectors?

Offshore oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors demand robust, high-performance vessels, and UAE shipbuilders have emerged as key enablers of this industry. Companies like Zakher Marine, ASMEF, and APT Global specialise in constructing offshore support vessels (OSVs), jack-up barges, and supply ships tailored for complex maritime operations.

Their yards are equipped with fabrication zones capable of producing structures for offshore platforms, heavy-duty pontoons, and dynamic positioning systems. Ship building companies in the UAE are also involved in refitting and retrofitting vessels to meet new energy standards, supporting cleaner fuel operations and hybrid propulsion systems.

Their proximity to major oilfields and energy corridors adds operational value. This integration of ship building and offshore engineering creates a seamless pipeline of construction, maintenance, and compliance especially vital for companies operating in the Arabian Gulf and surrounding waters.

Best 10 Ship Building Companies in UAE

1. Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB)

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is one of the most prominent ship building companies in the UAE, known for its cutting-edge naval and commercial vessel manufacturing. Strategically located in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, ADSB has contributed significantly to the region’s maritime defence and commercial infrastructure.

It specialises in ship construction, repair, maintenance, and refitting services for naval, commercial, and oil & gas vessels. With advanced facilities and a highly skilled workforce, the company has built a strong portfolio of delivering high-performance vessels.

ADSB is also a key player in regional defence contracts and is internationally recognised for its high-quality craftsmanship and marine engineering standards. The shipyard is equipped with state-of-the-art drydocks, fabrication yards, and outfitting workshops, making it one of the leading ship building facilities in the Middle East.

Website: adsb.ae
Contact: 02 502 8000
Location: Musaffah – Musaffah Industrial – Abu Dhabi

2. Ali & Sons Marine Engineering Factory (ASMEF)

Ali & Sons Marine Engineering Factory (ASMEF) stands as a leading marine engineering and ship building firm based in Abu Dhabi. It’s a subsidiary of the renowned Ali & Sons Holding LLC and has played a vital role in the UAE’s ship building industry. Located in ICAD II, the company provides end-to-end services ranging from ship building to offshore fabrication and repair.

ASMEF is known for constructing offshore supply vessels, tugs, barges, and oil & gas support vessels. The company integrates innovation, advanced marine engineering, and modern shipyard facilities to ensure precision and quality.

Their extensive workshops and heavy-duty equipment allow for versatile marine construction, making them a go-to provider for both commercial and offshore clients in the region. Their work aligns with international marine standards, offering tailored solutions to various maritime sectors.

Website: asme.ali-sons.com
Contact: 02 551 2432
Location: Plot 354 MR2 – Musaffah – ICAD II – Abu Dhabi

3. MBK Marine Industries LLC

MBK Marine Industries LLC is a top-tier player in the UAE’s ship building landscape, offering extensive marine fabrication, engineering, and custom ship construction services. Based in ICAD II, Abu Dhabi, MBK Marine is known for its reliability, innovative marine designs, and high-capacity yard operations.

The company focuses on building robust vessels tailored to the needs of oil & gas, offshore support, and industrial sectors. Their team comprises seasoned marine engineers and naval architects, ensuring each vessel is constructed with precision and in compliance with global standards.

MBK is also involved in major ship repairs and drydocking operations, providing seamless support throughout a vessel’s lifecycle. The 24-hour operational schedule reflects their commitment to serving urgent client demands with efficiency and speed, setting them apart in the competitive UAE ship building market.

Website: mbkmarine.com
Contact: 02 552 2770
Location: 153-R-19 – Musaffah – Abu Dhabi

4. Zakher Marine – New Marine Base/Yard

Zakher Marine International (ZMI) operates a state-of-the-art shipyard in Abu Dhabi’s Industrial City (ICAD II), making it one of the most advanced marine bases in the UAE. The New Marine Yard supports the construction, maintenance, and repair of a wide variety of offshore support vessels.

Known for its world-class standards, Zakher Marine’s ship building division is an integral part of the company’s offshore logistics and marine services. The facility boasts a drydock, fabrication zone, outfitting area, and berthing spaces designed to accommodate large-scale maritime projects.

Zakher’s emphasis on safety, sustainability, and technological advancement has made them a trusted partner for major offshore oilfield service providers.

Their fleet construction capacity is aligned with modern international classification requirements, making them highly competitive in the region’s maritime sector.

Website: zmiglobal.com
Contact: 02 551 5151
Location: 8F3M+84H – Abu Dhabi Industrial City – ICAD II – Abu Dhabi

5. LIWA Ship Building LLC

LIWA Ship Building LLC is a specialised marine engineering and ship building company headquartered in ICAD II, Abu Dhabi. The company focuses on delivering turnkey vessel construction solutions, from concept design to final delivery.

LIWA Ship Building is known for constructing aluminium and steel vessels tailored to defence, commercial, and leisure markets. With a modern fabrication yard and experienced workforce, the firm ensures top-quality output across all phases of ship construction.

Their dedication to client satisfaction and adherence to international safety and performance standards has made them one of the most respected ship building companies in the UAE.

LIWA’s innovation in design, efficient build process, and customised vessel manufacturing capabilities enable them to serve a diverse set of maritime clients both locally and abroad.

Website: liwasb.com
Contact: 02 644 6934
Location: Plot: 152R19 – ICAD II – Abu Dhabi

6. Greenocean International Ship Repair LLC

Greenocean International Ship Repair LLC, based in Dubai, is a key player in ship repair and maintenance services across the UAE. While their primary expertise lies in repair and retrofit, Greenocean has expanded its operations to include ship building and marine engineering services.

The company is equipped with modern facilities, experienced technical staff, and engineering solutions that support sustainable ship building.

Their drydock services, mechanical repairs, hull treatment, and conversion projects meet global standards. Greenocean is recognised for fast turnaround times and competitive pricing, making it a preferred shipyard for both regional and international clients.

The company’s focus on eco-friendly practices and energy-efficient vessel upgrades is aligned with the UAE’s green maritime ambitions.

Website: greenocean.ae
Contact: 04 554 2294
Location: WS147A – Dubai

7. CCTC Marine Base/Yard

CCTC Marine Yard, part of Consolidated Contractors Group, is a leading marine base located in Abu Dhabi’s ICAD II area. The shipyard provides integrated marine and ship building solutions for the industrial and commercial maritime sectors.

Known for its engineering expertise, CCTC’s marine yard is equipped for ship repairs, construction, and offshore fabrication. The company supports a wide range of vessels including supply boats, barges, and jack-up rigs.

With a reputation for reliability, CCTC offers comprehensive services from hull treatment to structural upgrades and marine outfitting. Its strategic position in the industrial zone allows for seamless supply chain access and logistical support, making it a valuable player in the UAE’s ship building ecosystem.

Website: cctcuae.com
Contact: Not publicly listed
Location: 8F27+P89 – Abu Dhabi Industrial City – ICAD II – Abu Dhabi

8. Shiptech Drydocks

Shiptech Drydocks is one of Dubai’s top marine service providers, offering full-fledged ship building, drydock, and ship repair services. Located in Dubai Maritime City, this facility is designed to handle a wide range of marine vessels, including cargo ships, workboats, and offshore service units.

Shiptech Drydocks is well-known for its technical precision, quality standards, and timely project execution. The shipyard is fully equipped with modern tools, heavy lift cranes, and fabrication workshops.

Their ship building division delivers custom solutions for commercial and industrial clients, ensuring compliance with classification societies and industry regulations.

With its central location and advanced infrastructure, Shiptech plays a critical role in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a maritime hub.

Website: shiptechdrydocks.com
Contact: 04 446 7956
Location: 141 – Dubai Maritime City – Dubai

9. APT Global Marine Services LLC

APT Global Marine Services LLC is a Dubai-based marine engineering company offering a wide portfolio of ship building, offshore fabrication, and heavy-duty marine infrastructure services. The company specialises in turnkey marine solutions, including the design and construction of dredgers, pontoons, and tugboats.

APT Global serves both the commercial and offshore oil & gas sectors, offering fabrication yards, machine shops, and engineering units across multiple locations.

With a commitment to high technical standards and client-focused solutions, the company is known for delivering durable, efficient vessels.

APT Global also provides lifecycle support, including upgrades, conversion, and repairs, positioning itself as a one-stop provider in the UAE’s marine industry.

Website: aptglobalmarine.com
Contact: 04 454 7314
Location: WS-136A – Industrial Precinct – Dubai

10. Crescent Marine Engineering Co LLC

Crescent Marine Engineering Co LLC is a reputable marine engineering and ship building company located in Dubai. Known for quality and innovation, Crescent Marine provides services such as ship construction, retrofitting, mechanical repair, and maintenance.

The company serves a diverse clientele, including commercial fleet owners, offshore service providers, and port authorities. With extensive experience in steel and aluminium vessel construction, Crescent Marine has the capability to deliver both standard and customised marine projects.

Their facility is equipped to manage complex engineering challenges while maintaining high standards of workmanship. Their strong emphasis on client relationships, technical excellence, and timely delivery has established them as one of the dependable names in the UAE’s ship building sector.

Website: cmkc.me
Contact: 04 324 5256
Location: JEDAFF – Dubai

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What Should You Look for When Choosing a Ship building Company in the UAE?

Choosing the right shipbuilder depends on your specific project goals, timelines, and technical requirements. First, consider the company’s track record—firms like ADSB and LIWA Ship Building have decades of experience across defence, commercial, and industrial marine sectors.

Look at yard capacity, whether they can accommodate your vessel size, and check if they offer drydocking and maintenance services alongside new builds. Certifications, safety records, and engineering credentials are crucial indicators of reliability.

Also, evaluate how well the company aligns with your needs for customisation, sustainability, and budget. Ship building companies in the UAE offer a wide range of services, but some specialise in high-speed crafts, while others focus on offshore barges or naval vessels.

Ultimately, your decision should balance capability, cost, and credibility—ensuring your investment delivers operational efficiency and long-term value.

Conclusion

The UAE’s rise as a maritime and ship building hub is no accident—it’s the result of focused investment, skilled engineering, and strategic positioning. These ten ship building companies not only lead the regional market but are also competing on a global scale through innovation, reliability, and world-class service.

Whether it’s building offshore support vessels, high-speed crafts, or providing critical ship repairs, these firms are pushing boundaries in marine technology and ship construction.

Choosing the right partner among them depends on your project needs, but each offers a unique advantage. As the industry evolves with greener, smarter technologies, the UAE continues to anchor itself as a future-forward leader in global ship building.

FAQs

What services do ship building companies in the UAE offer beyond construction?

UAE shipbuilders offer vessel repair, retrofitting, drydocking, mechanical engineering, and offshore fabrication in addition to new ship construction.