Adnoc Logistics & Services is expanding its shipping capacity with three new gas carriers. The move will strengthen its gas carrier fleet as regional energy exports continue growing. The company will spend AED1.2 billion, or about $324 million, on the three vessels. Adnoc L&S announced the investment through a filing with the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange.
Each vessel will carry up to 90,000 cubic metres of gas. The company expects deliveries during the second half of 2029. Furthermore, Adnoc L&S plans to place the vessels under seven-year contracts. Adnoc Global Trading will charter the ships under those agreements.
The latest order follows a larger fleet expansion announced earlier this year. In August, Adnoc L&S committed AED4.8 billion for eleven new vessels. That order included five very large gas carriers and six very large crude carriers. Consequently, the latest purchase adds further momentum to Adnoc’s maritime expansion strategy.
Meanwhile, strong tanker demand has supported fleet investment across Gulf energy markets. Producers increasingly seek vessels that can support long-term export programs. Market conditions have also lifted prices for second-hand tanker tonnage. Buyers have shown greater interest in vessels that can enter service quickly.
However, newbuild orders give companies greater control over future fleet capacity. They also allow operators to plan around longer-term shipping requirements. Adnoc L&S has continued building its fleet around expected energy demand. The strategy supports Adnoc’s broader plans for international trading and exports.
In addition, Adnoc has committed substantial capital to its wider energy operations. Its board allocated $150 billion for investments between 2026 and 2030. That spending plan covers existing oil and gas activities alongside expansion projects. It highlights the group’s focus on maintaining production and strengthening its international position.
XRG, Adnoc’s low-carbon energy and chemicals investment arm, owns 78 percent of Adnoc L&S. This ownership connects the shipping business with Adnoc’s broader investment strategy. The new vessels should support Adnoc’s trading operations across international markets. Their size also gives the company flexibility when moving large gas cargoes.
At the same time, the contracts with Adnoc Global Trading provide a defined employment period. That arrangement can help support predictable revenue from the new ships. The gas carrier fleet expansion also reflects Adnoc’s focus on integrated energy logistics. Shipping plays an important role in connecting production with overseas customers.
Moreover, additional vessels can reduce reliance on external shipping capacity. They can also give the company more control over scheduling and cargo movements. Adnoc L&S shares recently gained 0.70 percent to reach AED7.10. The stock has also recorded a significant increase during 2026.
Overall, the latest order marks another step in Adnoc’s maritime growth strategy. The company now has several major vessels entering its longer-term expansion pipeline. As a result, the gas carrier fleet should become increasingly important to Adnoc’s export plans. The new ships will begin contributing after their expected 2029 deliveries.
