International Maritime Industries (IMI), the foremost maritime construction and repair company in Saudi Arabia, has announced a significant agreement with ARO for the construction of a new offshore jack-up rig named KINGDOM 4. This partnership, formalized at the Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress in Dammam, strengthens the collaborative efforts of the two companies and supports ARO’s operations in Saudi waters. The project aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, particularly regarding economic diversification and enhancing local maritime capabilities.
Wail Al-Jaafari, IMI’s Chairman, emphasized that the start of the KINGDOM 4 construction signifies their commitment to building robust offshore capabilities and strengthening the maritime supply chain in Saudi Arabia. He noted that the project represents a step forward in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in the maritime sector.
Abdul Hameed Al-Dughaither, Chairman of ARO, echoed this sentiment, stating that KINGDOM 4 exemplifies the growing collaboration between the two companies. He pointed out that this initiative will contribute to introducing new competencies and skills within the maritime industry while fostering local economic growth.
Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, CEO of IMI, highlighted that the KINGDOM 4 project is a key milestone in enhancing Saudi Arabia’s maritime capabilities. He reaffirmed the company’s dedication to fostering local expertise and developing a competitive maritime ecosystem, which is crucial for the Kingdom’s long-term ambitions.
Mohamed Hegazi, ARO’s CEO, noted that KINGDOM 4 builds upon their previous successful partnership with IMI and demonstrates their commitment to technological innovation and sustainable development in accordance with Vision 2030. This initiative continues the momentum generated by their earlier collaboration on KINGDOM 3, the first offshore jack-up rig built in Saudi Arabia, setting a precedent for future advancements in the country’s maritime sector.
IMI’s expansive maritime facility in Ras Al-Khair, spanning 12 million square meters, is equipped to construct up to six jack-up drilling rigs annually, as well as 25 offshore support vessels and 18 large commercial vessels, including chemical carriers and Very Large Crude Carriers. Additionally, IMI plans to provide maintenance and repair services for up to 250 vessels and 15 rigs each year.
In summary, the KINGDOM 4 agreement not only underscores the long-standing partnership between IMI and ARO but also marks a significant development in Saudi Arabia’s maritime industry. This project is poised to make a lasting impact on the region’s maritime capabilities, contributing to economic growth and the advancement of local industries in alignment with national objectives.
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