In a major leap forward for regional maritime capability, Dubai-based Premier Marine Shipyards has launched its most advanced offshore support vessel to date Rawabi 73, a 70-meter Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessel custom-built for Vallianz Shipbuilding & Engineering Pte Ltd (“VSE”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vallianz Holdings Limited. VSE is building the vessel on behalf of Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services.
The launch of this state-of-the-art vessel marks a significant milestone in UAE’s shipbuilding sector and showcases the power of cross-border collaboration, innovation, and industrial excellence.
Premier Marine Shipyards launched the Rawabi 73 vessel at an official ceremony at the Dubai Maritime City. The mega event was attended by Mr. Ling Yong Wah, Executive Director and CEO of Vallianz Holdings Limited ; Mr. Walter Van Aarde, General Manager of Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services; Mr. Hemant Tandon, Managing Director of Premier Marine Shipyards, Mr. Mohammad Al Tamimi, Ast. Manager Reservation, Dubai Maritime City & Mr. Abdulla Esam Abdulla, MEM Senior Manager – Operations, Dubai Maritime City alongside key officials, industry leaders, and guests.
From left: Hemant Kumar Tandon, Managing Director Premier Marine Shipyards, and Walter van Aarde, General Manager Rawabi Vallianz
Designed to perform a wide range of critical functions—including anchor handling, towing, firefighting, rescue, and subsea support—the vessel represents a new era in offshore support. It also offers modern accommodation for up to 50 personnel, ensuring crew comfort and safety on extended missions.
Proud moment
Mr. Hemant Tandon, Managing Director of Premier Marine Shipyards in Dubai, called the launching of the vessel a proud moment for the company and a significant advancement in regional maritime capabilities.“This launch marks a proud milestone for Premier Marine Shipyards and reflects months of engineering excellence, precision, and collaboration,” said Mr. Tandon. “The vessel has been purpose-built to meet the complex and evolving demands of offshore operations—from oil and gas exploration to renewable energy support.”
He emphasised the shipyard’s long-term vision for innovation, sustainability, and client-focused design.“As the maritime industry transitions to cleaner and more capable technologies, we’re investing in vessels that reflect those values. This AHTS vessel represents not just power and performance but our broader goal of helping our clients operate safer and smarter at sea,” he added.
Collaborative spirit
He added: “This achievement was only possible because of the unwavering support and shared vision of our partners, clients and workforce. Together, we are setting new benchmarks in maritime excellence and positioning the region as a global hub for offshore marine solutions.”
Mr. Tandon noted: “The successful launch of Rawabi 73 signals a major achievement for the regional maritime sector, showcasing Premier Marine Shipyard’s growing stature as a shipbuilder of choice for complex offshore vessels. With its advanced capabilities, smart systems, and world-class safety and environmental standards, Rawabi 73 is not just a vessel, it’s a statement of intent.”
Rawabi 73 embodies strength in partnership
Mr. Ling Yong Wah, Executive Director and CEO of Vallianz Holdings Limited, echoed the sentiment, praising the partnership that brought Rawabi 73 to life.“It is truly an honour to be part of this celebration marking the launch of Rawabi 73 , a vessel that stands as a symbol of innovation, excellence and the strength of collaboration,” he said.
Mr. Ling further added: “This achievement would not have been possible without the strong trust and partnership between Hemant Tandon, myself and between the dedicated teams at Premier Marine Shipyards & Vallianz Holdings Limited.
“Both teams have worked tirelessly to overcome challenges, combining expertise, dedication and a shared commitment to quality.
“This vessel reflects our collective pursuit of world-class service, mutual respect and the power of working together as one team to achieve common goals.”
