First electric tugboat in Middle East sets new standards in performance

SAFEEN Group, part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, in collaboration with DAMEN Shipyards Group, has announced that it has achieved a Guinness World Records™️ title for Most Powerful Electric tugboat.  The record was set by measuring the tug’s high peak value strength by bollard pull, demonstrating unprecedented performance for an all-electric vessel.

With an average high peak pull of 78.2 tonnes, this achievement marks a global milestone and underscores the exceptional capabilities and performance of Bu Tinah, SAFEEN Group’s innovative electric tug built by Damen Shipyards Group. The Guinness World Record™️ was accomplished at Khalifa Port, AD Ports Group’s flagship facility and was fittingly announced during ADIPEC, the world’s largest energy event which is placing great emphasis on the energy transition.

Designed with sustainability at its core, the innovative all-electric harbour tug vessel tug, the first of its kind in the Middle East, contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of marine activities thanks to its zero emissions from “Tank to Propeller” and offers a cost-effective alternative to diesel powered vessels due to lower maintenance expenditure.

Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO – Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: This Guinness World Record™️ achievement demonstrates that the transition to alternative energy does not come at the cost of performance.  We are very proud that the first electric tug in the Middle East is also making waves on a global level with this accolade and the fact that in parallel it is improving the sustainability of our operations alongside cost efficiencies in terms of overall fuel saving is extremely important. This vessel is now a key component of our Marine Services fleet and our electrification strategy.

Arnout Damen, CEO of Damen Shipyards Group said: Damen is incredibly proud to partner with SAFEEN Group on this electric tug project driving us towards a more sustainable marine industry.  This collaboration aligns perfectly with our shared vision for the future of maritime innovation.

Following a successful trial period at Khalifa Port the tug is now being used on a permanent basis setting new standards in sustainable, cost efficient, maritime operations. Currently being used with an advanced electric hybrid battery system, planned shore power installation will further boost its green capabilities.