10 Nov 1999

Arab Heavy Industries breaks ground for new 20,000 dwt drydock

Arab Heavy Industries (AHI), a public joint stock company of the Government of Ajman, the Al Futtaim Group, the Keppel Group of Singapore and other investors, has started the construction on its newest dock with a groundbreaking ceremony on 10 November 1999.

Valued at DH 71 million or S$32 million, the new 20,000 dwt drydock will be AHI’s first. Measuring 175 meters long and 32 meters wide, the new drydock’s construction is estimated to take 12 months to complete.

The civil works contract of the new drydock was awarded to Six Construct Ltd, a Belgium-based company with an extensive construction track record in the United Arab Emirates.

Said AHI’s Chairman Mr Obaid Ali Al Muhairi, "The number of ports in the Arabian Gulf is increasing and with AHI in the heart of United Arab Emirates, the business hub of the Middle East, this strategic investment will position our company as the premiere medium-sized yard in the region."

The new drydock will enable AHI to service larger offshore supply boats, anchor, handlers, crane barges as well as cargo vessels of up to 20,000 dwt. With the extra wide beam, it will also be able to accommodate this category of double-hulled tankers.

Latest technology and equipment will be used for the new drydock to ensure that it has the greatest flexibility. A new 250-meter wharf will also be built next to the new drydock to complement its efficient operations. With all these features, AHI is able to provide clients with comprehensive and high quality services at a fast turn around time.

Managed by the Keppel Group, AHI is a pioneer in the marine and offshore industries in the region. The yard has a wide range of experience and an excellent track record in the construction, repair and conversion of marine and offshore vessels, including jack-up rigs, derrick and pipe laying barges, work/accommodation barges and fabrication of steel for offshore and onshore applications.