Offshore Wind Development Fuels Shipyard Expansion in Dubai

Offshore wind development is driving shipyard expansion in Dubai, a surprising location for such growth. GE Vernova and DP World’s shipyard division Drydocks World recently secured the transmission-system contract for Ostwind 4, a new 2 GW offshore wind farm in the Baltic Sea. This project, set for completion in 2031, will provide power for up to two million households. Drydocks World will fabricate the farm’s offshore converter platform in Dubai, then ship it to the Baltic for installation off Rugen Island.

DP World recently inaugurated a large yard expansion to accommodate projects like Ostwind 4. This expansion, which increases fabrication and yard capacity by 40% and 25% respectively, will allow Drydocks World to handle multiple large-scale projects simultaneously. The facility boasts the largest load-out jetty in the Middle East and Africa, capable of handling structures weighing up to 37,000 tonnes – ideal for large topsides structures. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at DP World, emphasized the South Yard expansion as a sign of commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.

The South Yard expansion at Drydocks World is fully powered by solar electricity from the nearby Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, reducing its carbon footprint. This move aligns with DP World’s goal to lead in renewable energy infrastructure as global demand for cutting-edge energy solutions continues to rise. The expansion will position the facility as a key player in the offshore wind industry, showcasing Dubai’s unexpected emergence as a hub for shipyard expansion driven by offshore wind development.

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