#SaudiArabia #maritime – ABS (American Bureau of Shipping),has launched the Saudi Arabia Technology Centre in Dammam, a research facility dedicated to advancing smart systems, robotics, artificial intelligence and digital technologies for the maritime sector. Unveiled during the Saudi Maritime Logistics Congress, the centre supports the Kingdom’s maritime strategy for global leadership in shipping. The facility will serve as a hub for collaboration between vessel operators, shipyards, manufacturers and regulators to address operational and regulatory challenges, whilst developing partnerships with Saudi universities to train the next generation of maritime professionals in emerging technologies.
SO WHAT? – The opening of the new technology centre reflects the increasing emphasis on digital transformation in the maritime shipping and logistics sector. Port operators and commercial fleets are becoming big users of 5G, AI, IoT and AIoT, as they continue to digitise the whole sector. Government maritime agency Mawani, launched a Smart Ports Initiative in 2022, with objectives to digitally transform the country’s ports. The Smart Ports initiative aims to automate Saudi ports, adopting emerging technologies with the aim of raising the efficiency of the operational performance of the country’s port network.
Here are some key details about the announcement:
ABS (American Bureau of Shipping),has launched the Saudi Arabia Technology Centre in Dammam.
The centre will focus on industry-leading research in smart systems, robotics and AI-driven solutions, combining ABS’ advanced technology resources with Saudi Arabia’s developing technology ecosystem to create collaborative opportunities for innovation and talent development.
The facility aims to co-create innovative solutions through industry partnerships with vessel operators, shipyards, equipment manufacturers and regulatory bodies.
The new centre is well-positioned to address both operational efficiency challenges and compliance requirements facing the maritime sector.
ABS specialists will develop collaborations with leading Saudi universities to prepare maritime professionals for technology-driven roles, supporting workforce development initiatives.
The Transport General Authority (TGA) played a central role in developing the centre and will support its mission through regulatory oversight, training institute accreditation and workforce development programmes.
The TGA drives workforce development in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and the STCW Convention, helping ensure the Kingdom’s maritime sector meets international standards.
ABS operates as a global classification society providing safety and technical services to the maritime industry, with this Saudi facility representing an expansion of its international research and development footprint.
ZOOM OUT – The launch of the new technology centre follows years of engagement between ABS and the Saudi government. In 2023, ABS signed a memorandum of understanding with TGA and Saudi shipbuilder and marine services provider Zamil Marine to jointly develop regulations, technical standards and operational frameworks for autonomous vessels. That agreement positioned ABS as a technical partner supporting the Kingdom’s autonomous transport implementation and regulation efforts. ABS has emerged as a leading authority on autonomy and remote-control maritime initiatives, publishing frameworks for the design, implementation and operation of autonomous vessels. Meanwhile, TGA works closely with Mawani (Saudi Ports Authority) on digital transformation of the ports sector and the International Maritime Organization on regulatory alignment.
[Written and edited with the assistance of AI]
Read more about Saudi plans for smart ports:
Saudi makes plans for autonomous vessels (Middle East AI News)