Dubai's ship building unit Drydocks World has announced the completion of conversion and upgrade of the jack-up drilling platform, Beynouna belonging to the National Drilling Company (NDC), one of the largest drilling contractors in the Middle East.

The rig arrived at the Dubai shipyard in late July, following Rig Delma to undergo major work at the shipyard in 2012, said a statement from the Dubai group.

The conversion of the rig involved the fabrication and installation of new spud cans, upgrade included replacement of shale shakers.

The rig underwent major maintenance work, like overhaul of two of its cranes, blasting and painting of hull and tanks, inspection of legs, renewal of steel and pipes and upgrade of accommodation. Hydro-blasting and painting of derrick and legs were carried out using rope access methods, said the company in its statement.

Commenting on the success, Khamis Juma Buamim, the chairman of Drydocks World and Maritime World said, "We are delighted to have completed yet another successful conversion and upgrade project for NDC this year. This provides us with a firm foothold in the offshore drilling rig maintenance, conversion and upgrade sector and are fully prepared to address this rapidly evolving sector in right earnest."

"We are working on various major projects and have several others in the pipeline. We are totally and fully committed to HSE and Quality in all aspect of our business," Juma Buamim stated.

The shipyard, he said, continues to focus on the newly-adopted strategy to enhance its services for the offshore oil, gas and energy sectors.

Abdalla Saeed Al Suwaidi, the NDC chief executive officer said the company was delighted to work with Drydocks World who gave "their cooperation and full commitment to HSE and Quality."

A Dubai World group company, Drydocks World has established itself as a leading global player in ship repair, shipbuilding, rig building, FPSO conversion, maritime industry and yachts, offshore fabrication and fleet operations with facilities in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.-TradeArabia News Service