ADNOC Logistics & Services has unveiled the UAE’s first 60-meter remotely operated landing craft vessels, developed with SeaOwl to be controlled from Mussafah. The AI-enabled, crewless craft eliminate onboard living quarters to optimize fuel use and cut carbon emissions by up to 30%. Construction of the prototypes is underway ahead of scheduled sea trials and safety validation in UAE waters in the final quarter of 2026.
Abu Dhabi, UAE | November 13, 2025 – ADNOC Logistics & Services has unveiled the United Arab Emirates’ first remotely operated landing craft vessels, setting a new benchmark for autonomous offshore operations in the maritime and energy sectors.
Debuted at Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week 2025, the 60-meter, AI-enabled unmanned vessels are being developed in partnership with French marine solutions provider SeaOwl. Designed to be controlled directly from ADNOC L&S’s Remote-Control Center in Mussafah via advanced satellite links, the fleet introduces a structural shift in how offshore logistics are managed in the region.
Engineering Breakthroughs and Emissions Reduction
The core engineering breakthrough lies in the complete elimination of onboard crew accommodations. Removing living quarters significantly lightens the vessel, reduces structural weight, and boosts fuel efficiency. Furthermore, the integration of an AI-driven Hybrid Power Management System and automated route optimization is projected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by up to 30% compared to conventional manned crafts.
Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S, noted that the milestone accelerates the company’s digital transformation roadmap while aligning directly with broader national decarbonization mandates. “By advancing AI-powered remote vessel technology, we are enhancing safety, reducing emissions, and driving cost efficiency across our offshore operations while supporting ADNOC’s and the UAE’s Net Zero goals.“
Safety Redundancy and Autonomous Navigation
From a technical standpoint, safety redundancy has been heavily prioritized. In the event of a satellite communication blackout, onboard AI systems take over to ensure safe, autonomous navigation until connectivity with the Mussafah control center is re-established.
Timeline and Industry Impact
Construction on the first two prototype vessels is slated to begin by the end of 2025, keeping on track for a scheduled delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026. Following delivery, the vessels will undergo rigorous sea trials and safety validations in UAE waters.
Xavier Genin, CEO of SeaOwl, emphasized the broader industry implications of the venture, stating that the collaboration establishes a new global standard for teleoperated and autonomous offshore support craft. “This collaboration with ADNOC L&S and the UAE maritime authorities sets a new global benchmark for autonomous vehicle operations. It brings together advanced teleoperation and AI capabilities to reshape the future of offshore logistics.”
As energy maritime logistics increasingly pivots toward decarbonization and operational resilience, the upcoming deployment of ADNOC L&S’s autonomous fleet will serve as a critical litmus test for crewless commercial operations in the Middle East energy corridor.
About ADNOC Logistics & Services
ADNOC Logistics & Services, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX symbol: ADNOCLS / ISIN: AEE01268A239), is a global energy maritime logistics company based in Abu Dhabi. Through its three business units, Integrated Logistics, Shipping, and Services, ADNOC L&S delivers energy products and solutions to more than 100 customers in over 50 countries. ADNOC L&S’s key subsidiaries include Zakher Marine International Holdings (100% ownership), an Abu Dhabi-based owner and operator of offshore support vessels; and Navig8 (80% ownership), a global shipowner and commercial pools operator that also offers bunkering and ship management solutions.
About SeaOwl
SeaOwl is a French company leading the way in the tele-operation and automation of maritime services. In 2020, SeaOwl became the first company in the world to obtain a certificate of seaworthiness for a teleoperated ship, with the French maritime administration validating SeaOwl’s system to ensure safety and security at sea while offering the flexibility of remote piloting through a secure satellite link. SeaOwl also operates autonomous USVs for both private and governmental organizations.
Source: ADNOC Logistics & Services