Ali & Sons Marine Engineering Factory (ASMEF), Abu Dhabi, continues to strengthen the UAE’s specialised marine capabilities through its 16,500 DWT semi-submersible heavy-lift barge cum floating dock, SABER-1. Having already successfully completed two major load-out and float-off operations involving 7,000-tonne and 10,000-tonne structures within the UAE, SABER-1 has demonstrated its capabilities in handling large-scale marine projects.

Measuring 92.7 metres in length and 47 metres in breadth, with a stated lifting capacity of 16,500 tonnes, SABER-1 provides a locally based option for vessel launching, dry-docking, heavy cargo transportation, and offshore construction support.

Enabling Larger Shipbuilding and Offshore Fabrication Projects

SABER-1 offers UAE shipyards and EPC contractors greater flexibility to launch and transport large vessels, barges, and offshore structures.

Local availability can help reduce reliance on overseas heavy-lift assets, potentially lowering mobilisation costs, shortening lead times and improving project scheduling.

Its 7-metre pontoon depth also provides flexibility for load-out operations at suitable shipyards and terminals.

Supporting Heavy Marine Transportation and Offshore Operations

SABER-1’s capabilities include:

• Heavy cargo load-out, marine transportation and float-off operations.
• Vessel launching and dry-docking.
• Offshore construction support, with a four-point mooring system comprising four 600 kN winches and 9-tonne anchors.
• Controlled ballasting through three main ballast pumps, each rated at approximately 2,200 m³/h.

UAE-Flagged, with Regional Deployment Capability

Registered under the UAE flag and classed with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), SABER-1 offers versatile deployment capabilities across the GCC and beyond, supporting heavy marine transportation, offshore projects and specialised marine operations.

Featuring a semi-submersible design and high-capacity ballast system, SABER-1 supports heavy marine transportation, load-out, float-off and docking operations in accordance with ABS-approved operational procedures, providing a versatile solution for shipyards and offshore marine projects.

Strengthening the UAE’s Maritime Sector

Backed by ASMEF’s experience in ship repair, offshore fabrication, engineering and marine project execution, SABER-1 adds to the UAE’s specialised marine infrastructure.

Its local availability supports opportunities for shipyards, EPC contractors, and offshore operators, contributing to the UAE’s continued development as a regional centre for maritime and offshore services.