27 APR 2026
Pioneering a locally built bulk fleet for Saudi Arabia
Setting a new course for industrial sovereignty
As the Kingdom accelerates its Vision 2030 ambitions, Bahri Dry Bulk stepped up to play a pivotal role in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s logistics self-sufficiency. In 2022, Bahri signed a landmark agreement with International Maritime Industries (IMI), the region’s largest integrated shipyard, marking the first-ever large-scale dry bulk shipbuilding initiative to be carried out on Saudi soil. This milestone project aims to reduce reliance on foreign-built vessels while cultivating a fully localized supply chain in the Kingdom’s critical bulk shipping segment.
Turning vision into action, building from the ground up
The mandate was clear but ambitious: build six dry bulk vessels (Ultra geared vessels) in Saudi Arabia, using local materials, shipyards, and expertise, without compromising on global-class standards. The vessels would be designed to meet the unique commercial and environmental requirements of the Kingdom and its ports, particularly to serve Saudi clients across food, industrial, and raw material cargo sectors. This program also had to act as a job creator and enabler for the Saudi maritime ecosystem, positioning Bahri not just as an operator, but as an architect of local capability.
Engineering the first national bulk fleet
Over two years of collaboration with IMI, Bahri brought together world-class engineering and programmed management to finalize vessel specifications, co-design the ship architecture, and align the production timeline with national industrial priorities. The four vessels will be constructed at the King Salman International Complex for Maritime Industries and Services in Ras Al-Khair, with delivery scheduled between 2028 and 2029. The entire process design, production, and delivery is being overseen closely by Bahri and IMI teams, in full compliance with Vision 2030 localization goals.
Enabling local industry, shaping global standards
This initiative positions Bahri Dry Bulk as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s evolving maritime and industrial economy. The vessels are being built by Saudis, for Saudis, highlighting Bahri’s leadership in localizing procurement, expanding Saudi employment, and advancing national capacity in shipbuilding. The project not only strengthens the Kingdom’s strategic shipping independence but also helps unlock opportunities across adjacent sectors, from steel and manufacturing to ports and logistics. In doing so, Bahri is anchoring a legacy that goes beyond shipping, it's shaping the future of Saudi industrial competitiveness on the global stage.