AAL Shipping (AAL) has celebrated the naming of its fifth Super B-Class vessel, the ‘AAL Dubai,’ marking a significant milestone in its third-generation fleet expansion and its 30th anniversary. The state-of-the-art, methanol-ready, 32,000 dwt heavy lift vessel was officially named at the CSSC Huangpu-Wenchong Shipyard in Guangzhou, China, in the presence of industry leaders and dignitaries.
Named after the Middle East’s premier project cargo hub, where AAL has operated since 2015, the ‘AAL Dubai’ highlights the company’s commitment to the region. The naming ceremony followed the Breakbulk Middle East exhibition, where industry professionals discussed the region’s growing project cargo potential, supported by ongoing infrastructure and energy developments.
“The Middle East market continues to grow, with record-breaking USD 264 billion in contracts awarded in 2024 alone,” said Liew Teck Liong, Chief Financial Officer at AAL. “Naming one of our Super B-Class vessels after Dubai underscores our dedication to the region and coincides with the 10th anniversary of our Dubai office.”
The vessel boasts a combined lifting capacity of 700 tonnes, enabling it to transport heavy lift project equipment, breakbulk, and dry bulk efficiently. It will now embark on its maiden voyage, joining sister vessels in serving key global markets.
Later this year, AAL will take delivery of the ‘AAL Dammam,’ followed by ‘AAL Newcastle’ and ‘AAL Mumbai,’ featuring an increased maximum heavy lift capacity of 800 tonnes.
