Global Drydocks completes major ship recycling project in Dubai, recovering over 20,000 tonnes
Global Drydocks completes Aframax ship recycling in Dubai, recovering 20,000+ tonnes of steel and machinery in a 120‑day operation with environmental controls.
Global Drydocks has finished a complex ship recycling operation in Dubai for client ABT Global Marine, reclaiming more than 20,000 tonnes of materials for reuse. The facility dismantled an Aframax-class tanker that arrived with extensive fire damage and significant hydrocarbon residues, completing the work in 120 days. The project underlines the UAE’s growing role in regional ship recycling and applied rigorous engineering and environmental controls throughout the dismantling process.
Aframax tanker arrived with fire damage and heavy residues
The vessel, an Aframax tanker, was delivered to the yard with severe structural and surface damage caused by onboard fire. Teams found more than 1,000 tonnes of hardened cargo residues and roughly 2,500 tonnes of fuel oil waste, which required specialist assessment. Those conditions increased the technical complexity of the job and prompted an immediate series of engineering evaluations before physical dismantling began.
Engineering assessments and phased dismantling approach
Global Drydocks conducted layered engineering studies to define safe cutting sequences and containment measures for contaminated compartments. The yard implemented a phased dismantling plan that prioritized removal of hazardous materials followed by systematic recovery of salvageable components. Detailed structural analyses guided the safe deconstruction of charred sections to protect workers and nearby marine infrastructure.
Over 20,000 tonnes recovered for sustainable reuse
Across the 120‑day project the yard recovered more than 20,000 tonnes of materials destined for reuse, recycling or specialist disposal. That total included approximately 14,500 tonnes of ferrous and non‑ferrous metals removed and processed safely. An additional 3,500 tonnes of machinery, piping and cables were salvaged, inventoryed and prepared either for refurbishment or material recovery workflows.
Specialized handling of hydrocarbon and hazardous wastes
Removal and treatment of hydrocarbon‑contaminated residues were central to the operation and required dedicated waste streams and on‑site treatment capacity. The yard separated liquid and solid hydrocarbon wastes, routed them to containment and treatment systems, and engaged certified contractors for off‑site disposal where necessary. Throughout the process continuous monitoring and recordkeeping were used to ensure compliance with environmental safety requirements.
Safety, containment and environmental controls enforced throughout
Global Drydocks applied enhanced safety procedures, isolation barriers and air and water quality controls to minimise environmental impact during dismantling. Workers used strict personal protective equipment and remote‑cutting techniques in high‑risk zones to reduce exposure to contaminants. The yard also implemented spill prevention and contingency measures to protect the neighbouring port and coastal areas.
Project framed as boost to UAE’s recycling capacity
Company officials said the successful conclusion reinforces Dubai’s capabilities in green ship recycling and the UAE’s ambition to expand industrial circularity in maritime sectors. The operation demonstrates the facility’s ability to handle highly degraded vessels and complex waste matrices under controlled environmental standards. Officials view projects of this scale as strategic steps toward strengthening regional infrastructure for responsible vessel end‑of‑life management.
Global Drydocks’ chief executive, Captain Radu Antolovich, said the outcome reflects advanced engineering, safety management and environmental capacity in Dubai, and that the yard aims to support broader industrial growth through responsible ship recycling. He emphasised the yard’s commitment to scaling such work while maintaining strict environmental safeguards and operational transparency.
The project sets a technical benchmark for similarly challenging ship recycling assignments in the region, combining hazardous waste management, material recovery and engineering discipline. As demand for sustainable vessel disposal grows, facilities that can demonstrate verified environmental controls and safe dismantling capabilities are expected to play a central role in the UAE’s maritime industrial strategy.