Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) has transferred its fleet of tug boats the UAE's classification society TASNEEF.

The young classification society, established in 2012, will regularly survey ADPC Marine Services' tugs for a period of five years under the terms of a contract signed today.

"We are keen to support TASNEEF and are confident that the company will provide the services and expertise that we need to a very high standard," commented Hamad Al Maghrabi, general manager of ADPC Marine Services.

"TASNEEF is like ADPC, a local and yet ambitious customer focused company meeting international standards and we are delighted to be its first UAE maritime customer", he added.

ADPC also stated that under its planned fleet expansion, new tugs will be registered to the UEA-based classification society if and when appropriate.

Rashed Al Hebsi, TASNEEF ceo, saw the deal as an opportunity to build the UAE's maritime expertise: "We are very proud and appreciative for the valuable trust that was given to ADPC by classifying its fleet by the national body. This will contribute to the refinement of national experiences and will open the gate for international cooperation.

"We wish for other national companies to follow the same step as ADPC, by registering and classifying their ships in the UAE. Doing that will enhance the capability of UAE fleets and will be of its benefit in the international forums and organizations."