A Tyneside engineering firm specialising in industrial door systems has opened the door to Dubai with the help of UK Trade & Investment.

Hart Door Systems Ltd, of Newcastle, is no stranger to the Middle East and already boasts clients across the UK and in 14 markets around the world.

Now the company is celebrating its latest success, a £750,000 order to supply 115 industrial roller shutters for Dubai Metro, in the United Arab Emirates, which is set to be one of the most advanced urban rail systems in the world when it opens next year.

The order comes after the company took part in a recent Market Visit to the UAE, organised by UK Trade & Investment. UK Trade & Investment also provided comprehensive advice and support before, during and after the visit.


Alan Richardson, Contracts Manager for Hart Door Systems Ltd, said: "The Dubai Metro will relieve congestion caused by increasing traffic as well as supporting continuing urban development needed to accommodate a population that is rising by around 6.4 per cent a year and tourist numbers that are expected to reach 15 million a year by 2010, the year it will be fully operational."

The first part of the order, which includes electric-operated security, insulated and fire roller shutters was despatched from Hart's factory in April and the rest will be progressively delivered into the autumn.

Joyce Rawlings, one of UK Trade & Investment's International Trade Advisers, said: "Hart Door Systems Ltd successfully competed against companies from around the world to win this contract and I'm sure the fact they were able to meet the clients face-to-face during the market visit was a contributing factor.

(JM)