ABS has launched the Saudi Arabia Technology Centre, dedicated to industry-leading work on smart systems, robotics, AI and advanced digital technologies.
The pioneering research centre supports the Kingdom’s maritime strategy for global leadership in shipping.
Patrick Ryan, ABS SVP and CTO, 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. Access to ABS’ advanced technology resources combined with the region’s flourishing technology ecosystem means this centre will serve as an important tool for collaboration and play a leading role in shaping the Kingdom’s maritime future.”
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the new centre will serve as a hub for advancing technologies focused on smart systems, robotics, and AI-driven solutions to address operational and regulatory challenges. The centre will seek to develop industry partnerships, collaborating with vessel operators, shipyards, manufacturers, and regulators to co-create innovative solutions. At the same time, specialists from the centre will develop collaborations with leading Saudi universities to train and prepare the next generation of maritime professionals.
The Transport General Authority (TGA) has played a central role in the development of the centre. As Saudi Arabia’s maritime flag state, TGA drives accreditation of training institutes, regulatory oversight, and workforce development in line with IMO standards and the STCW Convention, helping the Kingdom’s maritime sector meet high levels of safety, compliance, and talent readiness.
Yousef Al Dossary, GM Maritime Environment and Safety, TGA, said: “The launch of the ABS Technology Centre in Dammam reflects the Kingdom’s vision to embrace innovation, strengthen safety, and develop future generations of Saudi maritime professionals. Through collaborations like this, Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its leadership role in the global maritime industry.”
Image: (L to R): H.E. Dr. Rumaih Al Rumaih, Vice Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and President of TGA; H.E. Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services of Saudi Arabia; HRH Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia; and Joshua Divin, ABS SVP Marine Business Development (source: ABS)
