Ford Motor Corp., the US car manufacturing giant, said last Tuesday that it would be restructuring its global operations in order to drive growth in the Middle East. This would come through the opening of its fifth global businss unit specifically focused on the Middle East and African markets. It would be headquartered at Dubai.

The move is effective on January 1, 2014 and aims to 'take advantage of profitable growth opportunities', according to an official statement frm Ford. 

Ford Motor Corp President of Europe, Middle East and Africa had said, "The Middle East and Africa region is comprised of very diverse markets with different political, cultural and economic environments. Building a robust and profitable operation in this region requires a dedicated focus and clear understanding of how to support the unique conditions and customer needs in these markets."

In another announcement, the company also said it is planning to launch 17 new or refurbished Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the next two years in order for the company to accelerate its growth in the Middle East and African regions.