Petroleum Marine Services (PMS) has successfully completed the redevelopment of the United Gas Derivatives Company (UGDC) berth at Damietta Port. The project is part of a wider national initiative led by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources to fortify the country’s natural gas grid and ensure a flexible, secure energy supply.
The upgraded berth is now capable of supporting Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs), vital for the import and regasification of liquefied natural gas (LNG). This development aligns with Egypt’s long-term vision to diversify its gas sourcing options and meet growing domestic and regional energy demands.
This achievement marks the implementation of the second axis of the ministry’s strategy: optimizing the use of existing petroleum infrastructure. Industry observers say the project reinforces Egypt’s position as a regional energy hub while enhancing its capacity to adapt to fluctuations in global energy markets.
Awarded to PMS due to its established track record in complex marine construction, the project was completed ahead of schedule despite technical challenges. Works included seabed dredging to a depth of 14.5 meters, the relocation of a large metal quay structure, and installation of modern marine loading arms.
Two 16-inch LNG loading arms were mounted to enable efficient transfer from FSRUs, while four marine cranes were renewed to ensure safe and secure operations. Marine construction was carried out using the PMS 11 barge, one of the company’s flagship vessels.
In a statement, PMS Chairman Eng. Mohamed Khalifa said: “This project was a test of our technical capabilities and operational resilience. Completing it in record time, while meeting rigorous international safety and quality standards, underlines our readiness to support Egypt’s strategic energy projects.”
The Damietta Port upgrade not only addresses Egypt’s domestic gas needs but also enhances its ability to participate in energy cooperation with Europe and neighboring countries. This is especially relevant as Egypt eyes further partnerships to export surplus LNG via the Mediterranean.
Industry insiders believe this development could be a precursor to larger-scale offshore projects, with PMS playing a central role in upcoming initiatives tied to the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) agreements.
As Egypt continues to invest in its energy infrastructure, the completion of the UGDC berth project is a tangible indicator of progress. PMS’s role in the success reflects both the strength of local engineering talent and the nation’s commitment to becoming a resilient and adaptive energy player on the global stage.
