ADP collaboration for autonomous tugs
(Posted on 06/03/20)
Abu Dhabi Ports has announced its collaboration with a global commercial vessel designer and tugboat leader, Robert Allan Ltd., to develop the world’s first fully unmanned autonomous commercial marine tugs.
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 onshore, 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.
His Excellency Falah Mohammad Al Ahbabi, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports said: “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.
“Developing solutions and building strategic partnerships with industry experts will help achieve a paradigm shift in maritime operations worldwide, and globally in line with the directives of the leadership."
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Abu Dhabi Ports Group CEO, said: “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. This agreement marks another qualitative addition to our digital armoury that will enhance performance efficiency, productivity, transparency, and safety, as well as reduce costs. Continuing our investment in technology and advanced infrastructure ensures the growth and sustainability of our business and increases our contribution towards the diversification of Abu Dhabi’s knowledge-based economy.”
Commenting on the MoU, Mike Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Robert Allan Ltd., said: “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.”
“Robert Allan Ltd. has 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.”
Latest News
Métivier appointed President and CEO of Trois-Rivières Port Authority
(Posted on 11/11/25)The Trois-Rivières Port Authority (TRPA) in Canada has announced the appointment of Mr. Anick... Read more
Automated pulp handling boosts efficiency and safety at Rauma terminal
(Posted on 10/11/25)Euroports commitment to continuously improving operational efficiency, enhancing workplace safety, and... Read more
Bilbao forges closer ties with the COSCO Group
(Posted on 10/11/25)Under the slogan ‘Your Intermodal Link Between China, Iberia and the Atlantic Markets,’... Read more
Hamburg promotes international exchange in China
(Posted on 10/11/25)Port of Hamburg Marketing (HHM) continues to strengthen its successful cooperation with Chinese port... Read more
Rotterdam throughput falls in first nine months of 2025
(Posted on 04/11/25)Total throughput in the port of Rotterdam fell slightly by 2.6% in the third quarter of 2025 compared... Read more
Bayan, Indonesia, reaches 100,000 operating hours
(Posted on 04/11/25)E-Crane Asia has announced a major milestone achieved by Bayan in Indonesia: the company’s three... Read more
Teesport automated weighbridges boost bulk cargo efficiency
(Posted on 27/10/25)PD Ports has successfully introduced fully automated weighbridge systems at Teesport and Hartlepool,... Read more
Mixed picture for Antwerp-Bruges in volatile trade climate
(Posted on 24/10/25)In the first nine months of 2025, Port of Antwerp-Bruges handled 202.6 million tonnes of maritime goods... Read more
NPRC presents strategic course at 90th anniversary assembly
(Posted on 20/10/25)The 90th General Assembly of the inland shipping cooperative NPRC has highlighted the importance of... Read more
Bilbao leads in transparency among Spanish ports
(Posted on 17/10/25)The Bilbao Port Authority has obtained the highest score in the second evaluation of the Mandatory Information... Read more
