Asyad Shipping Company S.A.O.G. announced on 21 May 2026 that it has taken delivery of Muscat, the first of two new-build liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers constructed by Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries Co., Ltd., marking the commencement of deployment under its fleet renewal programme. A naming ceremony for Muscat and its sister vessel Musandam was held in South Korea on the same day.
Following delivery, Muscat will be chartered to Oman LNG under a long-term agreement. Its sister vessel, Musandam, is scheduled for delivery next month and will also enter service under a similar arrangement with the same charterer. The vessels were ordered under agreements disclosed in Asyad Shipping’s IPO prospectus with Hyundai Samho for the construction of eco-design LNG carriers scheduled for delivery in 2026.
Both vessels will operate under eight-year time charter contracts commencing in the second quarter of 2026. Each has a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters and is equipped with energy-efficiency technologies, including air lubrication systems designed to reduce hull resistance and improve fuel consumption efficiency.
Fleet renewal and LNG strategy
The delivery of Muscat marks a milestone in Asyad Shipping’s LNG operations and forms part of its fleet renewal strategy aimed at strengthening its position in LNG shipping through a younger and more efficient fleet.
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ibrahim Al-Nadhairi said the delivery is significant given the company’s long-standing involvement in LNG shipping.
“It is especially meaningful for us to take delivery of Muscat LNG given that LNG shipping was where our journey began more than two decades ago, and we look forward to welcoming her sister vessel, Musandam LNG, next month,” he said.
He added that the new vessels reinforce the company’s commitment to its core LNG segment.
“The addition of Muscat LNG and Musandam LNG to our fleet reinvigorates our commitment to this core segment and re-establishes a fleet of modern, young vessels,” he said.
He further noted that both vessels will operate under long-term contracts with Oman LNG, strengthening cooperation between national companies and supporting in-country value creation.
Asyad Shipping said the deliveries align with its strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its LNG shipping capabilities.
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