Abu Dhabi Ports enters the autonomous business

Photo: Robert Allan

The company will collaborate with the vessel designer Robert Allan Ltd., to develop world’s first fully unmanned autonomous commercial marine tugs.

Once finished, the tugs will join SAFEEN, Abu Dhabi Ports' (ADP) maritime service arm. Their advantages include 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, as well increased efficiency and operational safety.

Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi, Chairman, ADP, said, "[…] 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 […]."

Mike Fitzpatrick, President and CEO, Robert Allan Ltd., added, "[…] 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. [We have] been working on solutions to the technical challenges of an unmanned tugboat for several years now, but we were somewhat stalled in progressing to a commercial construction without an opportunity like this with Abu Dhabi Ports."