UAE’s unmanned vessel entirely powered by renewables enters offshore sector

SAFEEN Subsea, part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, has launched SAFEEN Green, a remotely operated unmanned vessel (USV) that operates entirely on renewable electric power or biofuel.

According to AD Ports Group, the USV is designed to revolutionize marine surveys and inspections using the capacity to deliver geophysical data to commercial standards and its operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. 

SAFEEN Green can operate up to 200 nautical miles offshore, collecting geophysical and hydrographic data with minimal environmental impact, AD Ports Group said. The vessel is controlled from an onshore remote operation center (ROC), utilizing navigation and safety technologies to ensure continuous and secure operations.

SAFEEN Green’s emissions are just 10% of a conventional vessel, underscoring its potential to lower the offshore sector’s carbon footprint, AD Ports Group said. The unmanned design also reduces personnel risk, while features like dual autopilots, redundant HD cameras, and monitoring systems support secure operations.

AD Ports Group noted that with modular payload options and optimized fuel economy, SAFEEN Green offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing performance.

Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of the Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “The launch of SAFEEN Green marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. By integrating advanced remote operations and zero-emission capabilities, we are setting new standards for the maritime industry, encompassing safety and efficiency while remaining competitive and contributing to a greener future.”

Following North Sea trials, SAFEEN Green entered the UAE offshore market with capabilities for multiple sectors, including oil and gas, wind farms, and deep-sea mineral exploration.

Tareq Abdulla Al Marzooqi, CEO of SAFEEN Subsea, part of AD Ports Group, added: “SAFEEN Green is not just another unmanned vessel; it is a testament to our dedication to excellence and environmental stewardship. With its ability to operate independently for extended periods and perform a wide range of subsea tasks, SAFEEN Green is poised to become an invaluable asset for offshore EPC projects in the region.”

SAFEEN Subsea, a joint venture (JV) between AD Ports Group and NMDC Group, provides subsea services and solutions to enhance planning, engineering, construction, positioning, and installation activities for offshore projects.

In November 2023, AD Ports Group acquired ten vessels for around $200 million, representing around a 20% increase in offshore and subsea capacity for the company’s Middle East and Southeast Asia operations.