MUSCAT: Asyad Shipping, a subsidiary of Asyad Group, signed an agreement with world-leading Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries to build two modern LNG carriers dedicated to meeting the growing demand of the group’s customers for energy logistics services in anticipation of an uptick in the global demand for gas transportation. With the two new tankers, Asyad Shipping’s ocean going fleet with rise to a total of 70 vessels catering to different cargoes.
The two modern fifth-generation tankers will be built at the Samho Shipyard in the Republic of Korea, one of the best shipyards in the world, and will be delivered in 2026.
By building the two tankers, Asyad Shipping aims to enhance its diversified fleet and support it with the latest gas carriers, and increase its capabilities in maritime transport to cover the expected growth in demand for natural gas, specifically to meet the export and transportation needs of its local and global customers.
Dr Ibrahim bin Bakhit al Nadhiri, CEO of Asyad Shipping, confirmed that strengthening the company’s fleet with the latest international models is a new step in achieving the expansion plans of the Asyad Group, and enhancing its competitiveness by providing reliable solutions to its growing customers locally and internationally.
He said, “Given the expected trends in the energy market today, which indicate a higher demand for LNG compared to traditional fossil fuels, ASYAD Shipping has chosen to expand its logistical capabilities in this sector and to bring in advanced LNG carriers with a capacity of 174,000 cubic metres.”
The two tankers will be managed by the Oman Ship Management Company, a subsidiary of the group, which was recently crowned among the best international ship management companies.
Dr Al Nadhiri pointed out that the fifth generation carriers were chosen in line with the highest international standards of environmental and commercial sustainability, as they are characterized by a high level of fuel efficiency and a low carbon footprint compared to other carriers.
In addition, Asyad Shipping seeks through these new assets to increase the local added value in the liquefied natural gas sector, by integrating with Omani production and export companies and providing them with comprehensive logistical solutions that cover all stages of the value chain and support the national economy in general.
These advanced tankers will join the Asyad fleet, which includes various types of tankers and ships, including oil and gas VLCCs, bulk carriers and container ships, which will increase the presence of the Asyad Group as a provider of integrated logistics services in global and regional energy markets, and establish the Sultanate of Oman as a vital global logistics hub for energy.
