Drydocks World Unveils Major South Yard Expansion
Drydocks World has marked a significant milestone with the official opening of its South Yard expansion. This multi-million-dollar project spans 75,000 square meters and is designed to enhance the company’s fabrication capabilities. The expansion reinforces Drydocks World’s position as a leader in complex marine and offshore wind energy projects on a global scale. With this new facility, the company aims to meet the increasing demand for innovative energy solutions while maintaining its commitment to sustainability.
Enhanced Fabrication and Yard Capacity
The South Yard expansion brings a substantial increase in both fabrication and yard capacity. Specifically, it boosts fabrication capacity by 40% and yard capacity by 25%. This enhancement allows Drydocks World to undertake multiple large-scale projects simultaneously, a crucial factor in today’s fast-paced energy sector. The facility features the largest load-out jetty in the Middle East and Africa, capable of handling structures weighing up to 37,000 tonnes. This advanced infrastructure positions Drydocks World to respond effectively to the growing demand for energy transition projects.
Equipped with cutting-edge technologies, the South Yard includes robotic profile-cutting machines, automated Computer Numerical Control (CNC) systems, and a heavy-duty rolling machine. These innovations significantly improve fabrication precision and efficiency. The facility is designed to accommodate up to 3,000 workers daily, ensuring that Drydocks World can deliver complex industrial projects efficiently. These projects include converting floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels, constructing topsides for offshore platforms, and developing high-voltage converter platforms for the offshore wind energy market.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Drydocks World’s South Yard expansion is not just about increased capacity; it also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. The facility operates entirely on clean energy sourced from the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This initiative significantly reduces the facility’s carbon footprint and aligns with international environmental standards. The design incorporates sustainable practices across all operations, demonstrating an integrated approach to environmental responsibility.
Captain Rado Antolovic, CEO of Drydocks World, emphasized that this expansion is a transformative step for the company. It enhances their ability to execute complex global projects while prioritizing smarter logistics and high health, safety, security, and environmental (HSSE) standards. The South Yard is integral to supporting the energy transition and meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving market. With a 5,000-tonne Sheerleg Floating Crane expected to be operational by 2026, Drydocks World is well-positioned to handle even larger and more complex projects in the future.
Drydocks World’s South Yard expansion represents a significant advancement in the maritime and offshore industries. By integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices, the company is poised to support global decarbonization goals while delivering value to its clients. This expansion is a testament to Drydocks World’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and the future of energy solutions.
