Caracal

Caracal is the only small arms manufacturer in the Gulf region. "It's not so much that we're producing pistols," said Saeed Ali Al Shamsi, Caracal Commercial Director. "It's the fact that we're now producing a high-quality product that is being sold around the world. This is the start of a new manufacturing industry. Tens of thousands of units have... been designed and produced - thanks to 150 full-time employees including many Emiratis - at Caracal International's Abu Dhabi manufacturing plant. "There are a lot of bright UAE nationals. Now is the time to give them a chance to achieve greater things," said Al Shamsi. In a country known mostly for oil and goods export/re-export, the success story so far of the Caracal product and its production plant is a harbinger of a much more productive future for UAE nationals, he said. "If we can compete in small arms manufacturing around the world, then why can't we compete in building cars or electronic micro-chips?" A wholly owned subsidiary of Tawzun Holding, Caracal first launched its full 9mm firearm two years ago. However, the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms only recently gave its approval for sales in the US. Al Shamsi said the company plans to embark on a soft launch of the firearms in America in 2010 with the handguns selling for up to $720 (Dh2,650) in North America. The market for the handgun is wide as a service weapon for government, military, police and private security firms.Read More