Far from resting on its established position as a regional leader, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is pushing the boundaries of innovation in the shipping and offshore industries across the Middle East. ABS has significantly expanded its presence in the region by increasing its workforce, advancing strategic collaborations, and achieving key industry milestones.
Growing Presence and Investment in the Middle East
ABS has made substantial investments in the Middle East, increasing its workforce to over 100 employees, including 80 surveyors and 12 engineers. This growth reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting maritime safety, decarbonization, and the digital transformation of the maritime industry. According to Dheeraj Sharma, ABS Vice President of Regional Business Development for the Middle East and Africa, ABS has focused on outreach and engagement throughout the past year, working closely with local maritime authorities and stakeholders.
One of the pivotal moves in this engagement is the establishment of ABS’s LNG Academy, aimed at supporting regional partners and creating opportunities for collaboration and cooperation across the industry. By utilizing digitalization, ABS is helping shipowners navigate regulatory complexities and prepare for future opportunities in fleet development.
Industry Firsts in Maritime Safety
ABS has played a crucial role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s growing shipping and offshore sectors. In a notable achievement, Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services became the first company in Saudi Arabia to be awarded the International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (IP code) Safety of Navigation (SOC) certificates for its four vessels: Rawabi 501, 502, 503, and 504. This accomplishment highlights Rawabi’s commitment to maritime safety and operational excellence.
Sharma expressed ABS’s pride in recognizing Rawabi for this achievement, stating, “Being the first company in Saudi Arabia to achieve SOC certification underscores Rawabi’s leadership and dedication to maintaining the highest industry standards.”
Pioneering Inclusivity and Diversity in the Region
ABS is not only leading in technical and regulatory advancements but also in fostering diversity within the industry. A key milestone within the company has been the appointment of Wala Alduhaim as the first female marine surveyor in Saudi Arabia. Alduhaim has emerged as a role model in the industry, sharing her experiences and setting an example for others to follow. As her time at ABS nears one year, she looks forward to continued success and breaking more barriers, stating, “this is only the beginning.”
ABS’s commitment to inclusivity is further demonstrated by its hiring of the first female surveyors in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, along with the first Emirati female engineer. According to Sharma, these initiatives reflect ABS’s dedication to fostering diversity, which enhances the organization’s capabilities and perspectives across the region.
Conclusion
ABS continues to drive progress in the shipping and offshore sectors in the Middle East by investing in workforce expansion, achieving industry firsts, and promoting inclusivity. By working closely with regional stakeholders and embracing digitalization, ABS is empowering maritime companies to navigate regulatory complexities and lead with innovation. As ABS continues to break down barriers and set new standards, its efforts are shaping the future of the maritime industry across the Middle East.
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Source: Seatrade Maritime
