# Bahri signs VLCC shipbuilding contract with Saudi Arabia’s IMI

- **Source:** https://pelavox.com/bahri-imi-vlcc-shipbuilding-contract/
- **Publisher:** pelavox. (The voice of shipping)
- **Author:** Jason Nicholson
- **Published:** 2026-10-25T18:06:40+00:00
- **Updated:** 2026-10-25T18:06:41+00:00
- **Section:** Shipping / Tankers
- **Type:** News
- **Topics:** Bahri, IMI, International Maritime Industries, Saudi Arabia, Shipbuilding, VLCC

International Maritime Industries (IMI) has signed a contract with Saudi shipping company Bahri for the construction of three very large crude carriers (VLCCs), with a total contract value of approximately SAR 1.692 billion (US$451 million).

The agreement was announced during the Saudi Maritime and Logistics Conference and covers three crude oil tankers, each with a deadweight capacity of 320,000 tonnes. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the vessels will incorporate advanced energy-efficiency technologies and are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2030.

The contract forms part of cooperation between the two Saudi companies in shipbuilding and fleet development, with IMI undertaking the construction of the new vessels for Bahri.

## Bahri advances its fleet modernisation strategy

Ahmed Al-Subaie, CEO of Bahri, said fleet modernisation remains a central element of the company’s long-term strategy. He explained that the agreement will enable Bahri to strengthen its capabilities with modern, more efficient vessels while expanding cooperation with IMI.

The company also highlighted the agreement’s contribution to developing maritime supply chains within Saudi Arabia.

Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, CEO of International Maritime Industries, said the contract reflects the continued development of the Kingdom’s maritime industrial sector. He also expressed the company’s commitment to supporting Bahri’s future requirements and contributing to the localisation of shipbuilding activities in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

## Shipbuilding capacity at Ras Al-Khair

International Maritime Industries is headquartered in Ras Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia, where it is developing a large-scale maritime industrial facility serving commercial shipbuilding and offshore activities.

According to the announcement, once the shipyard becomes fully operational, it is expected to have the capacity to construct more than 40 vessels and six new offshore drilling rigs annually, including very large crude carriers.

The facility is also designed to provide maintenance and repair services for up to 250 vessels and 15 offshore drilling rigs each year.

IMI said the shipyard’s infrastructure will incorporate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and biometric systems, as part of its plans to support modern shipbuilding and maintenance operations.

The three VLCCs contracted by Bahri are scheduled for delivery during the 2029–2030 period. The announcement did not specify individual delivery dates or provide further details about the vessels’ propulsion systems.

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Cite as: "Bahri signs VLCC shipbuilding contract with Saudi Arabia’s IMI", pelavox., 25 October 2026, https://pelavox.com/bahri-imi-vlcc-shipbuilding-contract/