ADNOC L&S deploys AI across UAE tanker ports, cutting service sourcing to 45 seconds
ADNOC L&S adopts AI to streamline tanker port ops across UAE terminals, boosting scheduling and dispatch. Requests drop to 45s, saving 3,000 hours, +20% jetty use and $950k by 2028.
ADNOC L&S rolls out AI for 'smart' tanker port operations
(Photo: Tankers at an ADNOC petroleum port in the UAE. Source: ADNOC)
ADNOC Logistics & Services is implementing an AI-based software suite to streamline marine services at its petroleum ports across the UAE. The move targets tighter scheduling, faster service requests, and lower operating costs across busy tanker terminals.
What's changing at the terminals
ADNOC L&S is deploying a smart port solution from Singapore-based Innovez One to manage real-time tracking, digital scheduling, and resource allocation. The goal: shorten port stays, cut delays, and make tug, pilot, and mooring deployment more precise.
- Service-sourcing time: cut from three hours to 45 seconds
- Annual time saved: around 3,000 hours
- Jetty utilisation: up by 20%
- Vessel management efficiency: up by 10%
- Operational savings: about US$950,000 by 2028
Scope: UAE petroleum ports
The rollout covers tanker terminals at Das, Zirku, Mubaraz, Ruwais, and Jebel Dhana. The system coordinates a diverse fleet: terminal and ASD tugs, diving support and maintenance vessels, mooring and line boats, pilot boats, and crew boats.
Every tanker arrival and departure is supported by at least one tugboat. The platform provides a live operational picture so dispatchers can assign assets earlier, reduce conflicts, and keep movements on schedule.
Why it matters for operations
- Faster service requests and confirmations reduce idle time at berth.
- A single, real-time view of tugs, pilots, and boats improves decision speed.
- Automated scheduling limits clashes and last-minute reshuffles.
- More predictable turnarounds improve jetty throughput and agent satisfaction.
- Clear KPIs (time saved, utilisation, on-time performance) support continuous improvement.
Leadership stance
ADNOC L&S leadership says the deployment reflects an ongoing commitment to AI and innovation to optimise operations and deliver more value for customers. The programme also supports long-term goals for sustainability, growth, and efficiency in energy logistics.
Implementation considerations for ops teams
- Systems integration: connect with terminal operating systems, VTS, ERP, and agent interfaces to avoid duplicate data entry.
- Data quality: validate AIS, ETA/ETD, and service timestamps to keep the schedule accurate.
- Change management: align pilots, tug masters, and schedulers on new workflows and escalation paths.
- SOP updates: standardise request-to-assign, pre-arrival checks, and exception handling.
- Security and access: enforce role-based permissions and audit trails.
- Pilot and scale: start with one jetty, measure KPIs weekly, then expand.
About the technology and operator
Innovez One develops smart port scheduling and marine services management software used in busy terminals globally. Learn more at Innovez One.
ADNOC L&S manages marine logistics and services for ADNOC's petroleum ports and fleet. For corporate context, visit ADNOC.
Next steps for port and terminal operations
- Baseline current times: service requests, tug/pilot assignment, berth occupancy, and delays.
- Set targets aligned to the above KPIs and lock in weekly reporting.
- Pilot on a single jetty with a clear playbook and escalation matrix.
- Train dispatchers and agents; simulate high-traffic windows before go-live.
- Run after-action reviews for exceptions; feed insights back into rules and schedules.
Further learning on AI for operations
If you're building capability in AI for port and marine operations, explore curated programs by role and automation use cases:
Note: A forthcoming industry webinar week will spotlight AI-driven vessel optimisation, practical decarbonisation strategies, and the use of digital twins-useful context for teams planning 2025-2026 initiatives.
