Abu Dhabi-listed AD Ports Group has deepened its presence in European shipbuilding with the acquisition of Spain’s Balenciaga Astilleros shipyard, further advancing its focus on offshore wind and specialised maritime vessels. The deal, valued at €11.2 million, was executed through the group’s subsidiary SAFEEN Drydocks, part of Noatum Maritime. The shipyard, based in Spain’s Basque region, will operate under the name Balenciaga Shipyard.
With nearly a century of shipbuilding experience, the facility boasts two drydocks, a 105-metre slipway, and more than 22,000 square metres of advanced fabrication space, including a dedicated cutting and manufacturing unit. The yard is recognised for constructing complex vessels and prefabricated offshore modules, and is one of the few shipyards in Spain with experience in service operation vessels (SOVs) for offshore wind farms, research vessels, offshore support vessels, and specialist tugs.
AD Ports Group highlighted that the acquisition supports its strategy of targeted international expansion and portfolio diversification. Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of the group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, said the addition of Balenciaga Shipyard enhances technical capabilities across SAFEEN Drydocks and facilitates knowledge transfer within the group. He emphasised that the move strengthens AD Ports’ role in supporting the global clean energy transition and contributes to high-value job creation in the region.
The acquisition aligns with AD Ports’ broader offshore wind ambitions, complementing its recent partnership with Masdar on project development. Balenciaga Shipyard’s strategic location provides access to the North Sea and wider European markets, positioning the facility to meet rising demand for specialised SOVs as offshore wind capacity expands. The yard is expected to create more than 50 skilled jobs and support both AD Ports’ fleet requirements and projects for international partners.
By integrating one of Spain’s most advanced shipyards, AD Ports Group consolidates its Mediterranean operations while reinforcing its capabilities in high-tech maritime construction and offshore energy infrastructure.