AAL Shipping (AAL), a leading provider of premium project heavy lift shipping solutions, has marked its 30th anniversary with the formal naming ceremony of its fifth Super B-Class vessel, the “AAL Dubai.” This state-of-the-art, methanol-ready multipurpose heavy lift vessel joins AAL’s expanding fleet, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in global project shipping.
The 32,000 dwt “AAL Dubai” was officially named on March 12 at the CSSC Huangpu-Wenchong Shipyard in Guangzhou, China, in the presence of industry dignitaries. The vessel’s name pays homage to Dubai, a key project cargo hub in the Middle East, where AAL has maintained a regional office since 2015.
“The Middle East market is experiencing significant growth in the project sector, with unprecedented capital expenditure across various industries,” stated Liew Teck Liong, Chief Financial Officer at AAL. “Naming one of our new Super B-Class vessels after Dubai underscores our dedication to the region, aligning with both the 10th anniversary of our Dubai office and the 30th anniversary of the company.”
The “AAL Dubai” is engineered to transport a wide range of cargo, including heavy lift project equipment, breakbulk, and dry bulk, all within a single voyage. Boasting a combined lifting capacity of 700 tonnes, the vessel offers enhanced efficiency, cargo flexibility, and economies of scale.
The vessel will now embark on its maiden voyage, joining its sister vessels in serving project cargo customers across key global markets. AAL is currently in the process of expanding its Super B-Class fleet, with the “AAL Dammam” scheduled for delivery later this year, followed by the “AAL Newcastle” and “AAL Mumbai,” which will feature an increased lifting capacity of 800 tonnes.
“We are now over the halfway mark with our Super B-Class deliveries, and those already in service are exceeding our expectations,” added Liew. “With these vessels, we have achieved both company and industry firsts, and we look forward to redefining what a heavy lift, multipurpose vessel can accomplish.”
