Abu Dhabi National Tanker Company (Adnatco), a fully owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), has announced plans to acquire new tankers so it can renew its fleet.
“The company is in the process of selecting a project management consultant for ship acquisition as part of a plan to replace ageing vessels with new ones that meet the highest world standards,” said Mohammad Salem Al Daheri, Adnatco general manager.
The number of vessels that will be acquired and the investment outlay was not disclosed.
Speaking at celebrations held to mark the company’s 30th anniversary, Al Daheri said Adnatco needed additional vessels to support its global oil and petroleum products transportation business.
Adnatco currently owns and operates a fleet of five product tankers, a molten sulphur carrier and two ro ro vessels.
“These ships are operating in the international market amidst tough competition. Adnatco offers its services to customers all over the world including oil majors, even our parent company, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company,” Al Daheri said.
“The company also provides logistical support and advice on shipping to Adnoc and its group of companies,” he said.
Set up in 1975, Adnatco began operations with two VLCCs (very large crude carriers) Dalma and Al Dhafra, followed by another VLCC, Al Ain, in 1980. In 1983 and 1984, the company acquired seven product tankers. In 1991, it took over management of its fleet from UK shipping major P&O Nedlloyd.
In 1993, the company launched the business of molten sulphur transportation with the acquisition of sulphur carrier Janana and also began bunkering services for Adnoc.
In 2002, Adnatco started its RoRo business after signing a deal with Abu Dhabi-based petrochemical company Borouge to transport polyethyelene to Mina Zayed and Jebel Ali in Dubai.
“The company has ambitious plans for Emiratisation by developing the skills of UAE nationals to prepare them to work in the offices of the company and providing scholarships to high school graduates who return after graduation to work as marine officers on board ships of the company,” Al Daheri said.
Currently, the company has 25 students in the UK.
