ADNOC L&S spending on bulk carriers nears $74 million with fourth acquisition

ADNOC Logistics & Services (ADNOC L&S) has expanded its dry bulk shipping fleet with the purchase of a fourth secondhand vessel, taking its recent spending on bulk carriers to nearly $74 million, according to data from VesselsValue. 

The latest acquisition comes as the Abu Dhabi-based shipping and logistics company continues to invest in medium-sized bulk carriers to support growing demand for global commodity transport.

The purchases reflect ADNOC L&S’s steady approach to expanding its fleet with proven vessels rather than ordering new ships. 

The newest addition is the Aliya, a 61,500-deadweight-ton (dwt) ultramax bulk carrier formerly known as Haato.

The vessel was acquired from Greek shipowner Newport in a separate transaction, adding to three other ships purchased since May. 

The four acquisitions increase ADNOC L&S’s medium-sized bulker fleet to 12 vessels, strengthening its position in the dry bulk shipping market as global trade continues to support demand for transporting grain, minerals and other commodities.

Japanese-built vessels remain the focus 

Built in 2011 by Japan’s Shin Kasado Dock, the Aliya is the smallest ultramax in ADNOC L&S’s fleet.

Like the company’s other recent purchases, the vessel fits its preference for well-maintained Japanese-built ships with established operating records. 

The three earlier acquisitions were all supramax bulk carriers of a similar age, completed through separate deals over the past few months.

The buying strategy gives the company additional carrying capacity while allowing it to expand its fleet without the longer delivery times associated with newbuild vessels.

Fleet expansion supports global shipping business 

Following the latest purchase, ADNOC L&S now operates a fleet of 12 medium-sized bulk carriers, including four ultramaxes, five supramaxes and three handysize vessels.

The larger fleet provides greater flexibility to serve customers across key international trade routes. 

The expansion comes as shipowners continue to look for quality secondhand vessels to meet shipping demand while managing fleet costs.

Medium-sized bulk carriers remain widely used for transporting agricultural products, steel, coal, fertilizers and other dry bulk cargo. 

ADNOC L&S is the shipping and maritime logistics arm of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).

The company operates one of the Middle East’s largest integrated maritime fleets, providing shipping, offshore logistics and marine services that support energy exports and international trade.