Abu Dhabi Ports is leading the charge towards digitalising the region’s maritime operations
Abu Dhabi Ports announced recently its collaboration with a global commercial vessel designer and tugboat leader, Robert Allan, to develop the world’s first fully unmanned autonomous marine tugs.
An MoU to this effect was signed by Capt. Maktoum Al Houqani, Chief Corporate Authority Officer, Abu Dhabi Ports, and Mike Fitzpatrick, President and CEO, Robert in the presence of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development, Cabinet Member, and Chairman of Federal Transport Authority Land and Maritime, at the recent International Maritime Organization gathering in London.
Once developed, the tugs will join SAFEEN, Abu Dhabi Ports’ maritime service arm, which maintains an expanding fleet of world-class service vessels.
One of the primary advantages of the innovative design includes greater capability, as shifting the human element from on-board to on-shore, will allow such vessels to operate in far more adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, the new technology will help increase efficiency and enhance operational safety.
Abu Dhabi Ports will work closely with one of Canada’s oldest privately-owned Naval Architectural and Marine Engineering firms on the research and development of remotely-controlled marine tugs that will be fully unmanned, and be able to operate within a wide spectrum of autonomy.
The two entities have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to this effect at the International Maritime Organization gathering in London.
“In line with our leadership’s guidance, this agreement marks a milestone in our digital transformation, and confirms our commitment to ensure the Emirate of Abu Dhabi strengthens its reputation as a leading centre for digital innovation regionally and globally. It’s a top priority for Abu Dhabi Ports to lead the charge towards digitalising the region’s maritime operations, and we are committed to providing a pioneering model for the sector.
Adopting digital solutions and keeping up with the changing demands of global trade have proven to be key drivers for economic growth and are integral towards achieving our goal of being a smart port,” explained Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Ports
“Our cooperation with Robert Allan to develop a new generation of tugboats equipped with superior capabilities and modern technologies, reflects our commitment to ensuring that the infrastructure at Abu Dhabi Ports is at the cutting edge. We are engaged to provide smart and innovative digital solutions to the marine trade and port community, and to our valued customers,” remarked Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO, Abu Dhabi Ports Group.
“We are excited to cooperate with Abu Dhabi Ports in this initiative, which provides us with an optimal opportunity to develop the world’s first fleet of remotely-operated tugboats for the commercial sector. The unique aspect of this project is the active participation of all the various stakeholders in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, which should ensure that we can progress smoothly from construction of the vessels to commercial operations,” stated Mike Fitzpatrick, commenting on the MoU.
