The launch of the state-of-the-art fabrication, rental and service facility in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking vision and commitment to supporting the UAE economy and diversification

Specialist Services, a Centurion company, has recently inaugurated its new cutting-edge facility in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in its expansion journey.

The new state-of-the-art 50,000 sq m waterfront fabrication, rental, and service facility, located in Mussafah Industrial Area, represents a combination of innovation, capabilities, and strategic investment in the UAE’s growing industrial landscape.

Boasting a substantial 110-m waterfront load-out capacity, the new facility features an extensive range of products and services.

From design and engineering to the fabrication of large technical modules and living quarters, process packages, rig refurbishment, rebuild, technical buildings and accommodation refurbishment works, modular building rentals, and a diverse range of support services, the facility is equipped to handle a vast array of projects.

Its strategic location in Mussafah, a thriving industrial hub, ensures streamlined access to its logistical capabilities, facilitating the efficient transportation of products and services across the region.

DELIVERING IN-COUNTRY VALUE

Chris Ridley, Vice President – Middle East & North Africa at Centurion, emphasises the strategic nature of this expansion. 'This new robust fabrication, manufacturing, and service hub is poised to house significant projects, supporting the UAE and global markets’ with access to world-class products, positioning UAE companies like Specialist Services at the forefront of global supply.'

Fernando Assing, Centurion’s CEO, comments: 'Centurion’s investment in this new world-class facility further underlines our commitment to growing our presence in the Middle East and enhancing industry efficiency, reliability, and sustainability for our customers. After acquiring Specialist Services in 2021 as part of the Group’s ongoing drive to expand our geographic reach, we have continually invested in the business to support their growth and help them reach their full operational potential. We are extremely excited by the opportunities we see ahead for Centurion as we continue to deliver on our expansion and diversification strategy.'

The facility underscores Specialist Services’ commitment to the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative and In-Country Value (ICV) programme.

By fostering local supply chains to support UAE businesses, a robust Emiratisation programme, and innovating cutting-edge engineering capabilities and processes, Specialist Services aims to attract international investment in the UAE economy.

The company’s investment in this new facility demonstrates its commitment to the local economy and to the region, focused on delivering ICV, with the new facility expected to increase Specialist Services’ overall capacity in the UAE by 40 per cent.

FROM OIL & GAS TO RENEWABLES

Over the years, Specialist Services has grown and developed its ability to build products to service the local market, while meeting international standards to attract global customers and opportunities.

During the past 10 years, the company has focused on enhancing its capabilities to provide products manufactured in the UAE to customers in a wider range of industries and end markets in addition to oil and gas.

The Abu Dhabi yard's grand opening

This shift towards supporting a broader array of industries includes a focus on supporting customers from renewable energy sectors, such as hydrogen production and offshore wind.

With reference to hydrogen production, Ridley states: 'We’re running a programme for hydrogen packages which sees Specialist Services produce 20 to 30 modularised 5-megawatt packages. This new direction for us exemplifies the exciting opportunities we are taking advantage of to support customers in the renewable energy space, both within the UAE and globally.'

He adds: 'Our hydrogen projects and Centurion’s additional focus on the offshore wind sector exemplify Specialist Services’ adaptability and its commitment to supporting the global transition to cleaner energy sources.'

SKILLS TRANSFERABILITY

Ridley points out the importance of finding a pragmatic balance between traditional oil and gas and renewable energy, acknowledging the ongoing vital role of fossil fuels in the global energy transition.

In this context, Ridley emphasises the transferability of skills and capabilities from oil and gas markets to new technologies and directives in the renewable energy sector as a significant opportunity for Specialist Services.

This flexibility enables the company to support complex gas processing or green hydrogen projects by using and adapting four decades of knowledge and experience in engineering and manufacturing for the oil and gas industry.

The company also focuses on packaging, modularisation, and safety goals, where they want to support complex and large infrastructure projects.

Ridley states: 'We see massive value in engineering and manufacturing large projects, highly technical and highly engineered modular packages, which simplify integration at installation sites, both onshore and offshore. By doing so, we are trying to support our customers by enhancing not only their productivity but also reducing safety risks.'

In conclusion, the launch of Specialist Services’ new facility in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking vision and commitment to supporting the UAE economy, its growth, and diversification.

By leveraging its strong and extensive capabilities and dedication to innovation and sustainability, Specialist Services is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the region’s industrial landscape and contributing to its economic prosperity.