Nakilat celebrates steel cutting of 8 new LNG carriers

The vessels form part of Qatar’s ambitious LNG fleet expansion initiative, designed to support the growing transport requirements of the sector.

The event was attended by senior representatives from Nakilat, Hanwha Ocean, and leading international financial institutions, signalling the official commencement of construction. Each vessel, fully owned by Nakilat, will have a capacity of 174,000 cubic metres and will be chartered to QatarEnergy affiliates under long-term agreements.

Commenting on the milestone, Nakilat’s CEO, Eng. Abdullah Al-Sulaiti, stated: “We are proud to collaborate with QatarEnergy and Hanwha Ocean on this important project. The start of construction is a significant step forward, reinforcing our commitment to supporting Qatar’s vision for LNG transportation with a world-class fleet. These vessels incorporate the latest technological advancements, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency and reliability while adhering to stringent global environmental standards. As we continue to strengthen our position as a global leader in LNG shipping and maritime services, we remain dedicated to delivering excellence.”

In February 2024, Nakilat signed agreements with QatarEnergy to charter and operate 25 conventional-size LNG carriers. These agreements position Nakilat as both owner and operator of these state-of-the-art vessels, further solidifying its status as a leading global LNG shipping company.

The new LNG carriers will incorporate advanced design features and innovative technologies, reinforcing Nakilat’s focus on safety, operational excellence, and environmental sustainability. This latest development represents a crucial step in enhancing Nakilat’s shipping capabilities as the company continues to play a vital role in meeting the global demand for LNG transportation.