Adnoc Logistics and Services (Adnoc L&S), a global leader in energy maritime logistics, has taken delivery of “Al Shelila,” the first of six new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers being built by Jiangnan Shipyard in China. The state-of-the-art vessel, delivered two months ahead of schedule, is part of Adnoc L&S’s strategic fleet expansion to meet the growing global demand for natural gas as a lower-carbon energy source.
“Al Shelila,” with a capacity of 175,000 cubic meters, significantly outclasses the 137,000 cubic meters of the company’s existing LNG carriers. Equipped with advanced energy-efficient technologies, including dual-fuel engines designed to reduce methane emissions by up to 50%, the vessel underscores Adnoc L&S’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Immediately following its delivery, “Al Shelila” will enter service with a leading global energy trader. The remaining five carriers in the fleet are scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026.
Speaking at the delivery ceremony, Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of Adnoc L&S, highlighted the vessel’s symbolic name and significance. “‘Shelila,’ in Arabic, represents strength and grace, qualities reflecting the legacy of our forefathers’ vessels. As we expand our fleet to support rising global energy needs, this milestone also reinforces the strong industrial ties between the UAE and China,” he said.
The newbuild program is part of a broader initiative by Adnoc L&S to modernize and expand its fleet. In 2024 alone, the company announced contracts for up to 23 new energy-efficient vessels, including additional LNG carriers, Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs), and Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs). The expanded fleet will add over 340 years of contracted income, bolstering Adnoc L&S’s position as a global leader in energy logistics.
Jiangnan Shipyard Chairman Lin Ou praised the partnership and the vessel’s early delivery. “This achievement reflects Jiangnan’s shipbuilding expertise and commitment to excellence,” he said. “We are dedicated to delivering the remaining LNG carriers, VLECs, and VLACs on time to support Adnoc L&S’s ambitious goals.”
The collaboration between Adnoc L&S and Jiangnan Shipyard has deepened over recent years. In 2020, Jiangnan was awarded contracts for five Very Large Gas Carriers through AW Shipping, a joint venture between Adnoc L&S and Wanhua Chemical. This expanded in 2024 with additional contracts for VLECs and VLACs.
In addition to fleet expansion, Adnoc L&S is advancing its global profile through acquisitions, including the ongoing regulatory approval process for Navig8. Expected to complete by March 2025, the acquisition will further enhance the company’s growth trajectory.
Adnoc L&S continues to focus on executing its growth strategy and delivering value for its shareholders while contributing to the global transition to cleaner energy solutions.
