Caravan and cabin makers ramp up production ahead of winter camping season

Caravan and cabin manufacturers are ramping up production to meet the anticipated surge in demand for winter camping gear in the 2026/2027 season. Overwhelmed by the demand, many factories are reporting waiting lists with orders dating back to April, as production capacity falls short of demand. Prices vary significantly, ranging from approximately QR60,000 for smaller cabins to around QR1.5mn for luxury caravans with premium fittings and accessories.

Rising raw material costs, up by nearly 35%, and soaring shipping expenses have added further pressure on the industry. Shipping costs for a container have surged from around $1,700 to $13,000, driving up the cost of imported materials and components. Despite these challenges, manufacturers have sought to offset the additional expenses by limiting price increases to keep their products competitive and retain customers.

Factories are currently operating at full capacity to fulfill confirmed orders while continuing to accept new requests for manufacturing, maintenance, repairs, and refurbishment. Customization is at the core of most production, with customers able to choose layouts, finishes, materials, and additional facilities based on their preferences and budgets.

In Al-Kubaisi's factory, operations have been running at full capacity, with orders coming in from 5am until 9pm. The cost of steel and other materials has increased, pushing production expenses up by approximately QR21,000 for the steel required to manufacture five caravans. An eight-meter-long by four-meter-wide cabin typically costs between QR60,000 and QR90,000, depending on specifications.

Additional features, such as beds, wardrobes, seating arrangements, and parquet flooring, can drive up the final price. A typical caravan takes two to three weeks to manufacture when materials are available and production schedules permit. Meanwhile, another caravan factory owner noted that demand is strong and expects market activity to increase as the camping season registration period approaches.

His factory offers repair, maintenance, renovation, and modification services in addition to manufacturing mobile and fixed cabins. Prices start at around QR65,000 and can reach approximately QR1.48mn for luxury models, with the most expensive units measuring up to 24 meters long and 4.5 meters wide, featuring extensive fittings and accessories.