Marine & Shipbuilding Industry
The marine and shipbuilding industry presents one of the most challenging environments for lifting equipment. From assembling large vessel sections to handling ship engines, propellers, and anchor chains, this sector demands corrosion-resistant, explosion-proof, and high-capacity lifting systems. Cranes used in marine applications must not only withstand salt-laden air, humidity, and harsh weather but also operate with extreme precision and safety — often around-the-clock in dockyards, dry docks, and offshore facilities.
Al Waha Cranes, as a trusted MENA-region leader, provides robust, marine-grade crane solutions customized to thrive in these demanding coastal environments. With over two decades of experience delivering lifting systems to shipyards, offshore maintenance facilities, and port authorities across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and beyond — we understand the nuances of maritime lifting better than most.
Relevant Crane Types for Marine & Shipbuilding Industry
Overhead Cranes
Used in ship manufacturing facilities for lifting engines, large vessel sections, and outfitting tasks. Available in explosion-proof and weatherproof variants.
Jib Cranes
Ideal for localized tasks such as lifting motors or tools at repair bays and engine rooms. Marine-grade paint and stainless-steel components ensure longevity.
Custom-Engineered Cranes
Used for specialized ship sections, submarine building, or offshore structure handling. Includes articulated arms, rotating cradles, and dual hoist systems.
Gantry Cranes
Critical for dry dock operations, hull assembly, and moving parts across wide open shipyard spaces. Customized gantry systems support long spans and heavy loads.
Key Applications in Marine & Shipbuilding
- Hull section positioning and welding
- Engine and propeller installation
- Deck equipment and cargo handling
- Ship repair and retrofitting operations
- Maintenance of offshore oil & gas assets
- Submarine and defense vessel fabrication
- Port and dry dock crane systems
Al Waha Cranes: Regional Specialists in Maritime Lifting
We’re more than a crane supplier — we’re a long-term partner to the shipbuilding and marine logistics ecosystem. With a deep understanding of MENA’s maritime infrastructure and regional compliance requirements, Al Waha Cranes offers:
- Corrosion-resistant crane systems (marine-grade finishes, stainless components)
- Specialized offshore hoisting equipment for FPSOs, rigs, and floating platforms
- End-to-end lifecycle support — from design to spare parts and AMCs
- Custom-built gantry and portal cranes for naval and commercial yards
- Fast support response via UAE & KSA service hubs
Feature
Benefit
Marine-grade coatings & materials
Extended lifespan in saltwater environments
Load testing & certification compliance
Meets IMO, SOLAS, and regional port authority regulations
Explosion-proof options
Safe for hazardous environments (e.g., oil tankers, LNG ships)
24/7 maintenance contracts
Zero downtime for critical operations
Onsite inspection and retrofitting
Local service teams across UAE, KSA, Bahrain
Why Choose Al Waha Cranes for Marine Industry Projects?
Control Options for Marine Cranes
Pendant Control Systems
Durable, waterproof pendants allow close-proximity operation in shipyards and deck environments.
Radio Remote Controls
Preferred in dockyards and offshore sites where operator mobility and visibility are crucial.
Automated Systems
Advanced control systems for smart shipyard workflows, often integrated with shipyard ERP and logistics platforms.
Industry Challenges & Al Waha’s Solutions
Saltwater Corrosion
Al Waha provides marine-grade finishes, galvanized or stainless-steel parts, and sealed enclosures for electronics.
Harsh Weather & High Humidity
IP66-rated motors, special braking systems, and dehumidifiers for control panels.
Large & Irregular Load Handling
Dual-hoist cranes, rotating hooks, spreader beams, and synchronized lifting systems.
Safety in Hazardous Zones
ATEX-rated explosion-proof hoists and enclosures.
Integration with Dock & Shipyard Workflows
Al Waha’s crane systems are designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing workflows, including:
- Shipyard layout planning
- Modular block assembly stations
- Synchronization with mobile transporters
- Integration with ship-launching systems
We tailor the crane solution based on your dry dock size, ship class, tonnage requirements, and operational throughput.
Common Crane Specifications in Marine Sector
| Specification | Typical Range |
| Capacity | 5 – 250 Tons |
| Span | Up to 50 meters |
| Lifting Height | Up to 25 meters |
| Duty Class | M5–M8 (Heavy/Extreme Duty) |
| Surface Protection | Epoxy marine coating, SS chains/ropes |
| Ambient Tolerance | Up to 60°C with high humidity |
Ideal Crane Use Cases in Marine Yards
- Naval shipbuilding
- Ferry and cargo ship retrofitting
- Offshore platform supply vessel (OSV) assembly
- Anchor chain installation using dual hoists
- Outfitting gantries for mast and radar lifting
Frequently Asked Questions
Gantry and overhead cranes are commonly used, often with weatherproof and corrosion-resistant finishes for outdoor and coastal use.
Yes. Al Waha offers ATEX and IECEx-rated explosion-proof hoists ideal for fuel handling or offshore platforms.
Yes. Marine cranes require corrosion-resistant components, special coatings, and designs suited for high humidity and salty air.
Absolutely. Our systems adhere to IMO, SOLAS, and local port authority standards.
Yes. We offer cranes for assembly (new builds) and repair tasks including retrofitting, lifting, and engine swaps.
Yes. Al Waha offers Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC), spare parts supply, and emergency response services.
Yes. We supply custom-built offshore cranes and deck-mounted lifting systems.
Typically 6–12 weeks depending on crane complexity. Express timelines possible for select models.
