Dune Enters Commercial Shipping Market

Dune, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)-listed Al Seer Marine, a frontrunner in the maritime industry and a subsidiary of International Holding Company (IHC), and maritime solutions company Damen International, has entered commercial shipbuilding market.

Damen International is part of the Damen family a renowned global shipbuilding company Damen Shipyards Group based in Gorinchem, South Holland, the Netherlands.

Established in 2022, Dune initially focused on naval shipbuilding but is now, expanding its operations and entering the commercial shipbuilding market. This strategic move strengthens its position as a global leader in the maritime industry.

Beyond shipbuilding, Dune offers a range of specialized services, including technical, operational, and commercial vessel management; new build project management; operational and financial business management; and international maritime business facilitation, including global sales and acquisitions of commercial and naval vessels from the UAE.

Al Seer Marine CEO Guy Neivens said that they were thrilled to witness the continued growth and success of the joint venture.

Delivering Maritime Solutions

He said that by leveraging their advanced manufacturing capabilities and the extensive UAE-based production facilities, coupled with Damen’s family robust shipyards in the region, they were confident in their ability to deliver innovative and efficient maritime solutions.

“In 2025 alone, we anticipate producing over 26 vessels, all constructed within the UAE, to serve both domestic and international clients,” he said.

Bolstered by a robust pipeline of both naval and commercial projects, the joint venture is well positioned to drive significant growth and innovation. By harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced manufacturing techniques, Dune will optimise efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and deliver exceptional maritime solutions.

Annelies Damen, Board Member of Damen International, said that they too were excited to further strengthen their partnership with Al Seer Marine through the joint venture in the UAE.

Annelies said that the establishment of Damen International and Dune were all part of their new strong foundation in the UAE for future growth as Dune will utilise cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our maritime clients.

Dune will leverage the combined expertise and infrastructure of Al Seer Marine’s facility in Abu Dhabi and the existing presence of the Damen family via Albwardy Damen’s shipyards in Sharjah, Fujairah, and Dubai.

As the joint venture continues to grow, Dune remains committed to supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global maritime hub by driving innovation, fostering local talent, promoting sustainable practices, and growing within the maritime industry.

The formation of JV Dune aligns with Al Seer Marine’s international growth plan. It sees a potential of more than $9.99 billion in current markets in the coming ten years.