Drydocks World today signed a contract with Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC) to acquire a new-generation 5 000-tonne floating sheerleg crane, which will help meet the growing demand for large-scale offshore projects.
The signing ceremony took place in Dubai and was attended by Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, the holding company of Drydocks World, as well as Captain Rado Antolovic, the subsidiary’s CEO, and ZPMC chair, You Ruikai.
The design, construction, testing, and commissioning phase is expected to take about 24 months, with completion scheduled in the second quarter of 2026.
Once operational, the crane will boost Drydocks World's heavy-lifting capabilities, allowing it to meet the growing demands of large-scale projects, such as high-voltage offshore converter platforms and floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel topsides.
The company’s latest investment will leverage its existing expertise, exemplified by the successful execution of significant projects such as the conversion of the Tango floating liquefied natural gas plant and the Excalibur floating storage unit, the refurbishment and conversion of the Firenze floating production and offloading unit, and the ongoing engineering, procurement and construction project on the UK’s Norfolk Vanguard Offshore Wind Platform.
The crane features a 160-metre-long A-frame, allowing heavy loads of up to 5 000 tonnes to be lifted 120 metres above the water, and a 600-tonne fly jib that can extend its reach to 180 metres.
This capability enables the installation of larger vessel modules constructed in the yard and lifted onto the vessel for assembly, both nearshore and offshore.
The crane can accommodate up to 50 personnel offshore, thereby reducing the need for support vessels. Its versatility also makes it well-suited for the construction of offshore platforms, bridges, and marine developments.
Sulayem said: "Our investment in a such a significant piece of equipment marks a strategic milestone for Drydocks World, and demonstrates our commitment to enhancing our offerings to customers and achieving operational excellence worldwide.
“Once operational, this giant crane will strengthen our leadership in the maritime industry and boost our ability to support projects that drive regional economic growth."
"Acquiring the Middle East and Africa's largest crane of this type is a transformative step for Drydocks World,” said Antolovic.
“As offshore vessels continue to grow in size, the need for advanced lifting solutions with features like angled booms has become increasingly important.
“This new sheerleg crane, with its ability to handle heavier modules and expedite project timelines, enables us to manage more extensive and complex projects, further solidifying our status as a global leader in the maritime and offshore energy industries.
“ZPMC's proven expertise in high-capacity crane manufacturing makes them the ideal partner to significantly enhance our lifting capabilities and ensure our success in mega-projects both regionally and internationally."
"Our partnership with Drydocks World builds on a history of successful projects with DP World and opens doors for future projects together. We are proud to collaborate on this project, delivering a state-of-the-art crane that combines power with cutting-edge technology for maximum efficiency and safety,” said Ruikai.
“Constructed from high-strength steel, the crane boasts advanced safety technologies and a sophisticated integrated control system for enhanced operational efficiency.
“The automatic ballasting system guarantees stability, and the integration of a high-capacity ballast water treatment plant also highlights Drydocks World's dedication to environmental sustainability.”
