Dubai: A Mumbai-based globally recognised ship classification society has opened its office in pivotal Abu Dhabi market to offer technical inspection and certification services to ships, marine craft and structures.

Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass)’ new location in the UAE’s capital is the organisation’s second office in the Middle East after Dubai which reflects its strong commitment to the region. It also represents the latest stage of IRClass’ strategic expansion in key global territories.

“Oil and Gas is an important growth area for IRClass and Abu Dhabi is therefore a pivotal market location. This new office will enable our proximity to customers and ability to better service the needs of the offshore as well as onshore sectors,” Chief Operating Officer at IRClass C Sriramamurthy said Friday.

“IRClass will offer various services including design validation of ships and offshore structures, technical inspection and certification of jackup barges, offshore platforms, submarine pipelines, refinery shutdown services, plus inspection of machinery, equipment and pipes.

“All these services are naturally in addition to our core ship classification capability,” Sriramamurthy said.

He underscored the significance of Abu Dhabi as an Oil and Gas hub, saying IRClass sees enormous potential in the Middle East market which is reflected in the establishment of the second new office.

“Our growth strategy includes further strengthening our presence in other important territories such as South East Asia and Africa,” Sriramamurthy added.

Headquartered in Mumbai, IRClass was founded in India in 1975. It is a non-profit organisation, public undertaking and among the 13 member International Association of Classification Societies.