Abu Dhabi: Noatum Maritime, part of AD Ports Group's Maritime and Shipping Cluster, has taken delivery of its first LNG powered Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) Ro-Ro vessel. This vessel will be utilized by the recently formed joint venture with Erkport, known as "United Global Ro-Ro."
According to Emirates News Agency, the newbuild vessel, named UGR Al Samha, is a flagship for Noatum Maritime's Ro-Ro expansion strategy. It features 12 decks covering a total area of 59,331 sqm and has a capacity of more than 7,000 car equivalent units (CEU).
LNG powered PCTC vessels offer numerous benefits, particularly in addressing environmental concerns and improving operational efficiency. Advantages include reduced emissions compared to traditional fuels, cleaner operations due to minimal impact on air quality, and cost efficiencies through fuel economy, performance, and reduced maintenance costs.
The adoption of LNG aligns with the UAE's long-term decarbonization targets and plans to achieve net emissions by 2050. It is a critical component of Noatum Maritime's strategy to transition its fleet to alternative fuels.
Captain Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of Maritime and Shipping Cluster at AD Ports Group, stated, "The incorporation of UGR Al Samha, the LNG-powered PCTC vessel into our United Global Ro-Ro fleet marks a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable shipping and operational excellence. By leveraging cleaner fuel technology, we are not only reducing our environmental footprint but also ensuring compliance with global regulations and enhancing value for our customers. This addition underscores our dedication to driving innovation and supporting the transition towards a greener maritime industry."
The vessel will join the existing fleet operated by United Global Ro-Ro and will primarily be deployed on routes within the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean. This will help connect global hubs and enhance vehicle logistics and high and heavy cargo transportation sustainably.