Drydocks World and Maritime World, the leading provider of maritime and offshore services to the shipping, oil, gas and energy sectors marked a key milestone in achieving environmental excellence at the steel cutting ceremony for the Middle East’s first LNG powered harbour tug ‘Elemarateyah.’ Held in Drydocks World’s state-of-the-art steel fabrication centre, the beginning of this project sets a regional first and demonstrates Drydocks World’s innovative approach to providing maritime and energy sector solutions.

This landmark undertaking represents a major breakthrough in the future of green technology and sets the course towards a green economy for sustainable development. The large global reserves of gas and the energy efficiency of LNG fuel, compounded by stringent emissions standards, positions LNG as a commercially viable opportunity. LNG fuel has almost double the energy content of MDO fuel, with LNG approximately reducing emissions of NOx by 85% and CO2 by 25%. LNG as an alternative energy source is gaining momentum as the ‘fuel of the future’ among the global maritime community and Drydocks World strives to be a pioneer in implementing this green technology throughout their facilities, wholeheartedly supporting the Government of Dubai’s environmental initiatives.

Drydocks World is experienced in building tugs and is now modernizing the yards tug operations through pioneering the LNG-power concept, with Elemarateyah due to be completed in 2016. Drydocks World is leading innovative technology by constructing this tug, with the company maintaining a strong commitment towards green initiatives that positively contribute to the industry and society. Drydocks World will embark on this project with active participation from Wartsila supplying the main engine and with Tasneef providing their valued classification services. Drydocks World shares many core corporate values with these companies such as safety, quality, customer service and environmental sustainability. Their relentless efforts and dedication to ensuring operational excellence coincides with the importance Drydocks World places on safe optimal productivity and continuous innovation.

Dubai is the gateway to green maritime products and services, due to the strategic location, excellent infrastructure, modern port facilities and shipyard services. Drydocks World is proud to collaborate with these local and international companies to position Dubai and the UAE at the forefront of environmentally sustainable projects. The maritime industry is a pillar of the economy and Drydocks World continually invests in infrastructure to deliver world-class services. As the first in the Middle East to lead the way with the LNG powered tug, Drydocks World looks forward to many future successful project milestones.