WEST ASIA: Priya Blue Group joins ASRY to build largest ship recycling in Bahrain

Priya Blue Group, one of South Asia’s leading environmentally responsible ship recyclers, has partnered with Bahrain’s Arab Shipbuilding & Repair Yard (ASRY) to establish what is set to become the West Asia’s largest ship recycling facility. The joint venture, announced this week, aims to create a world-class, compliant recycling hub that adheres to high environmental and safety standards.

The new facility will utilise existing shipyard infrastructure of ASRY, enabling recycling operations through dry dock, slipway and alongside methods. It will be capable of handling vessels up to ultra-large crude carrier (ULCC) size, as well as offshore rigs and structures delivered directly to berth.

Beyond conventional ships, the yard is being positioned to manage complex offshore assets such as floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) units and other specialized structures.

The affiliated cash buyer of Priya Blue, Best Oasis, will support the venture by sourcing vessels and overseeing their commercial acquisition. The first ship for recycling has already arrived at the ASRY yard, though details have not been disclosed.

The project integrates ship dismantling with environmental protection systems and hazardous waste management. It will provide end-to-end solutions, including recycling operations, regulatory compliance, safety management, waste handling and heavy-lifting support within Bahrain.

ASRY brings prior experience in handling hazardous materials, including naturally occurring radioactive waste from offshore production units. The yard began its ship recycling activities in 2023, aligning with global standards such as the Hong Kong International Convention and EU Ship Recycling Regulation.

ASRY CEO Dr Ahmed Al Abri described the partnership as a strategic step in expanding the yard’s capabilities. Priya Blue chairman Sanjay Mehta emphasized that the move builds on proven expertise developed at Alang, marking a deliberate global expansion beyond South Asia.