AkzoNobel will manufacture locally
AKZONOBEL has announced local manufacturing of Chartek ONE, the next evolution in epoxy passive fire protection (PFP), in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
This strategic move caters to growing demand within the region and positions the Dammam site as a vital supply point alongside AkzoNobel's existing manufacturing network for Chartek ONE.
AkzoNobel's protective coatings brand, International, recently hosted an exclusive launch event in Dammam, inviting key customers to witness the unveiling of Chartek ONE. The event provided an in-depth overview of the single-coat, boron-free, and mesh-free solution designed to simplify PFP application for energy sector assets by enhancing efficiency and streamlining the installation process.
The establishment of the Dammam factory as a supplier of Chartek ONE for the EMEA region marks a significant milestone, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key manufacturing and export hub for AkzoNobel's advanced PFP coatings. Adam Stephenson, General Manager Middle East said, "We are delighted to be manufacturing Chartek ONE in Dammam, creating local value and jobs in Saudi Arabia. Simultaneously, this facility will play a key role in supplying EMEA, highlighting the Kingdom's crucial position in our global strategy, allowing us to efficiently serve both the local and export markets with an industry-leading PFP range.”
Lamprell extends Aramco deal
LAMPRELL has announced the extension of its longstanding Offshore Long-Term Agreement (LTA) with Aramco, a strategic collaboration since 2018. The signing ceremony was held at Aramco’s offices in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, and was attended by representatives from Lamprell, including Chairman Dr Ghazi Osman and CEO Ian Prescott, alongside senior officials from Aramco’s project management department.
Lamprell CEO Ian Prescott commented: “We are proud to have delivered several LTA Contract Release Purchase Order projects to date and are working on several others currently being constructed in our UAE facility. We value our collaboration with Aramco and look forward to continuing our long-term working relationship with them. We are dedicated to supporting the Kingdom in achieving its Vision 2030 goals. Our growing office in Saudi and the steadily advancing International Maritime Industries yard, where we are a joint venture partner, clearly indicate our commitment to the region and support of IKTVA efforts.”
OQ, Vopak Partner for Duqm hub
OQ, spearheading the development of Duqm in Oman as a premier integrated hub for hydrocarbons, chemicals, and low-carbon products, and Royal Vopak entered into an exclusive partnership framework agreement in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD).
This is step for a strategic alliance that aims to unlock future growth opportunities in industrial and energy terminal infrastructure and sustainable energy transition facilities in SEZAD.
Leveraging Vopak’s proven expertise to develop and operate large-scale infrastructure projects, this partnership holds high prospects to drive economic growth, attract international customers, create new employment opportunities, and effectively serve all new projects requiring storage solutions in Duqm.
Ashraf Al Mamari, Group CEO of OQ, said: “This partnership is a catalyst for Duqm’s emergence as a globally competitive energy hub. By aligning with Vopak’s international expertise, we are unlocking a new era of strategic infrastructure investment that strengthens Oman’s position in global energy flows, accelerates the energy transition, and delivers long-term value for our economy and future generations.”
Dick Richelle, CEO of Royal Vopak, welcomed this partnership, saying: “Vopak is excited to collaborate with OQ Group on this strategic partnership in Duqm. Our combined strengths in infrastructure development will be instrumental in creating a leading energy and chemical hub serving multiple industrial customers concurrently. We are excited to support Oman’s Vision 2040.”
Aramco to innovate drone tech
ARAMCO has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Terra Drone to strengthen collaboration in drones, robotics, and AI-driven solutions for the oil and gas sector, supporting localisation efforts.
Terra Drone received funding from Wa’ed Ventures in 2023 to contribute to localisation of advanced drone technologies.
Following this investment, Terra Drone established a branch in Saudi Arabia, Terra Drone Arabia, with three strategic aims: Localising services in the short-term, establishing local R&D and production facilities in the long term, and supporting job creation for talented Saudis.
Toru Tokushige, Founder & CEO of Terra Drone Corporation, said: “This MOU reflects our commitment to driving innovation and supporting localisation in line with the vision of Aramco. Through our group company, Terra Drone Arabia, we aim to introduce cutting-edge drone technologies that not only enhance safety and efficiency but also empower the local workforce. By fostering collaboration and investing in R&D, we are building a foundation for sustainable growth and technological advancement in the Kingdom.”