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
Antwerp-Bruges stands firm as geopolitical forces reshape trade flows
(Posted on 16/07/26)In the first half of 2026, Port of Antwerp-Bruges handled 133.9 million tonnes of maritime cargo, a... Read more
PD Ports announce Paul Foreman as new CEO
(Posted on 16/07/26)PD Ports, one of the UK’s major port and logistics businesses, announced today that Paul Foreman... Read more
New San Diego bulk sugar import facility to use only electric trucks
(Posted on 03/07/26)The Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners has approved an Option to Lease Agreement and authorised... Read more
Expanded partnership through bulk infrastructure development at Khalifa Port
(Posted on 30/06/26)AD Ports Group, an Abu Dhabi based, leading global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics... Read more
Port of Hamburg strengthens partnership with China
(Posted on 29/06/26)The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and SPG Qingdao Port Group have signed a Port Partnership Agreement... Read more
Contract awarded for Pilbara Ports Zone 5 Bypass Channel
(Posted on 29/06/26)The Cook Labor Government in Australia has welcomed the award of a dredging contract to Jan De Nul ... Read more
Netherlands Parliamentary rules out Maasvlakte II as location for new nuclear power plants
(Posted on 29/06/26)A parliamentary letter in the Netherlands on the selection of a site for the construction of two new... Read more
SSAB’s port operations in Raahe develop safety together with ESL Shipping
(Posted on 25/06/26)The long-term safety cooperation between ESL Shipping and the port of SSAB’s Raahe site is visible... Read more
Liverpool sees 200% rise in fertiliser imports interest amid ongoing uncertainty
(Posted on 22/06/26)The Port of Liverpool is experiencing a surge in demand from fertiliser importers as continued uncertainty... Read more
PD Ports strengthens Teesport bulk handling with £5.4m crane investment
(Posted on 18/06/26)PD Ports has further strengthened its bulk handling capability at Teesport with the arrival of... Read more
