International Maritime Industries (IMI) signed a contract with Bahri to build three very large crude carriers (VLCCs) worth approximately SAR1.692 billion, the companies announced on 25 Oct 2026. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress in Dammam. Each of the three vessels will have a deadweight tonnage of 320,000 tons and will feature advanced energy-efficiency technologies. The carriers are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2030. IMI CEO Abdullah Al-Ghamdi said the deal reflects the continued development of Saudi Arabia's maritime industries sector, adding that the company aims to support Bahri's future needs and contribute to localizing shipbuilding in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Bahri CEO Ahmed Alsubaey said fleet modernization remains a key pillar of the company's long-term strategy, noting that the agreement will help strengthen Bahri's capabilities with more efficient vessels while expanding cooperation with IMI and supporting the development of Saudi Arabia's maritime supply chains. Headquartered in Ras Al-Khair, IMI is described as the largest maritime facility in the Middle East and North Africa. Once fully operational, its shipyard is expected to build six offshore drilling rigs and more than 40 vessels annually, including VLCCs, while also providing maintenance and repair services for up to 250 vessels and 15 drilling rigs each year. The facility's infrastructure will incorporate artificial intelligence and biometric systems.