Abu Dhabi Ports announced recently its collaboration with an international industrial vessel designer and tugboat leader, Robert Allan Ltd., to improve the worlds first completely unmanned independent industrial marine tugs.

Once developed, the tugs will join SAFEEN, Abu Dhabi Ports maritime service arm, which maintains an enlarging fleet of world-class service vessels. One of the primary benefits of the innovative design consists of better capability, as shifting the human factor from on-board to on-shore, will allow such vessels to operate in far more unfavorable climatic conditions. Furthermore, the new technology will assist increase efficiency and improve operational safety.

Abu Dhabi Ports will work intently with one of Canadas oldest privately-owned Naval Architectural and Marine Engineering companies on the research and improvement of remotely-controlled marine tugs that will be completely unmanned, and be able to operate within a broad spectrum of autonomy.

The two entities have currently 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 leaderships guidance, this agreement marks a milestone in our digital transformation, and confirms our commitment to make sure the Emirate of Abu Dhabi strengthens its reputation as a leading centre for digital innovation locally and globally. Its a top precedence for Abu Dhabi Ports to lead the charge towards digitalising the regions maritime operations, and we are committed to offering a pioneering model for the sector. Adopting digital solutions and maintaining up with the altering needs of international trade have confirmed to be key drivers for monetary growth and are integral towards attaining our intention of being a smart port.

Developing solutions and building strategic partnerships with industry professionals will assist obtain 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 improve a new era of tugboats outfitted with most reliable competencies and modern technologies, displays our dedication to making sure that the infrastructure at Abu Dhabi Ports is at the cutting edge. We are engaged to offer 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 improve performance efficiency, productivity, transparency, and safety, as well as minimize costs. Continuing our investment in technology and advanced infrastructure ensures the boom and sustainability of our business, and will increase our contribution towards the diversification of Abu Dhabis knowledge-based economy.

Commenting on the MoU, Mike Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Robert Allan Ltd., stated: We are excited to cooperate with Abu Dhabi Ports in this initiative, which offers us with an optimal chance to improve the worlds first fleet of remotely-operated tugboats for the business sector. The special element of this project is the active participation of all the various stakeholders in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, which should make sure that we can develop easily from construction of the vessels to business operations.

Robert Allen Ltd. has been working on solutions to the technical challenges of an unmanned tugboat for numerous years now, but we have been somewhat stalled in progressing to a business construction besides an opportunity like this with Abu Dhabi Ports.