Development plan for Marfa Port

Abu Dhabi Ports Company said yesterday it would make a Dh17million investment at Marfa Port to develop its infrastructure and leisure facilities, part of the Al Gharbia master plan.

Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) said yesterday it would make a Dh17million investment at Marfa Port to develop its infrastructure and leisure facilities, part of the Al Gharbia master plan.

A centre for fishing, pleasure boating and diving, 125 kilometres west of Abu Dhabi, Marfa will be provided with floating pontoons creating 105 new berths that will allow fishermen to keep their boats in the water instead of pulling them on to shore after each trip. The first phase of construction is expected to be completed by next February.

"The ports in Abu Dhabi's Western Region - the Al Gharbia region - are vitally important to the local communities," said Mohamed Al Shamisi, the acting chief executive at ADPC. "The Al Gharbia region has enormous potential as a tourism and leisure destination."

Majestic Marine Engineering has been awarded the development contract.

A second phase of development will focus on the landside infrastructure and new marina facilities including a building for the fisherman's association, a new fish market, restaurant and retail units, a paved area for boat parking, a dry dock area for boat maintenance and about 240 new berths.