Dubai’s maritime sector is witnessing an unprecedented boom as **Dubai Maritime City (DMC)** announces a stellar performance for the first nine months of 2026. According to the latest reports highlighted by **Business Promotion24**, DMC has signed 18 new leases, covering a staggering 572,000 sq. ft of industrial and commercial space. This surge has resulted in a revenue increase six times higher than the same period last year, marking a significant milestone in Dubai’s economic trajectory.
### **Ship Repair and Marine Manufacturing Take Center Stage**
The latest data reveals that ship repair and marine manufacturing have emerged as the fastest-growing segments within the DMC ecosystem. This growth is a testament to Dubai’s strategic focus on becoming a global hub for maritime services.
Businesses at DMC are opting for one of two primary leasing structures:
1. **One-Year Renewable Agreements:** Ideal for companies seeking flexibility.
2. **25-Year Musataha Agreements:** A long-term commitment that allows businesses to develop their own specialized ship repair or shipbuilding workshops on-site.
Currently, companies that secured prebuilt units this year are already operational, while those under Musataha agreements have entered the construction phase, signaling a long-term investment in Dubai’s infrastructure.
### **Global Confidence in Dubai’s Maritime Hub**
The influx of new leases reflects a robust and sustained confidence in Dubai as a regional and international business base. Interestingly, 72 percent of these leases were signed after February 2026, indicating a rapid acceleration in market interest throughout the year.
**Ahmed Al Hammadi, COO of DMC**, emphasized the importance of this growth: *“Companies are choosing to build their facilities here, take on long-term commitments, and invest in equipment and infrastructure, which tells us Dubai gives them the certainty they need to plan ahead. For shipowners and operators, that translates into deeper repair capacity, shorter turnaround times, and more of the services they need in one place.”*
### **A Top-Tier Global Ranking**
Dubai’s success is not just local; it is recognized on the world stage. The city currently ranks first in the Arab world and 11th globally in the **Leading Maritime Cities (LMC) Report** by DNV and Menon Economics. This ranking underscores the world-class facilities and the business-friendly environment that **Business Promotion24** continues to monitor for global investors.
### **Expanding Infrastructure: The Maritime Business Centre**
To support this rapid expansion, DMC recently launched its second **Maritime Business Centre**. This AED 160 million premium commercial tower is designed to expand Grade A office capacity, providing high-end space for firms within the maritime and trade ecosystem.
### **Conclusion**
With its strategic location, innovative leasing models like the Musataha agreement, and a commitment to infrastructure, Dubai Maritime City is setting new benchmarks for the industry. For businesses looking to tap into the Middle Eastern and international markets, DMC offers the stability and facilities required for long-term success.
Stay tuned to **Business Promotion24** for more updates on Dubai’s thriving industrial and commercial sectors.
