The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has opened a maritime technology centre in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
The centre will focus on research and development and application of smart systems, robotics, AI and digital tools relevant to the maritime sector.
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The ABS Technology Centre was launched during the Saudi Maritime Logistics Congress and aims to advance technological solutions for operational and regulatory challenges in shipping.
The centre also seeks to facilitate collaboration with vessel operators, shipyards, manufacturers and regulatory bodies on joint development projects.
ABS said it intended to collaborate with Saudi universities through the centre to provide training opportunities for students pursuing careers in the maritime industry.
ABS senior vice president and chief technology officer Patrick Ryan said: “We are witnessing unprecedented technology innovation in our industry, and this centre will help ensure the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is at the cutting edge of maritime research and talent development.”
TGA is responsible for accrediting training providers, maintaining regulatory oversight and supporting workforce development according to International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards, as well as the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention.
These efforts are intended to ensure that the country’s maritime sector operates at recognised benchmarks of safety, compliance and skills development, stated ABS.
TGA maritime environment and safety general manager Yousef Al Dossary said: “The launch of the ABS Technology Center in Dammam reflects the Kingdom’s vision to embrace innovation, strengthen safety, and develop future generations of Saudi maritime professionals.”
The centre’s launch also aligns with priorities set out in Saudi Vision 2030.
In August this year, ABS and Saronic Technologies announced a partnership to advance autonomous maritime technologies.
The parties signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on projects focused on improving technical requirements for autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) and classification services for Saronic’s autonomous capabilities.
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