At least four people were killed and three remain missing after a jackup barge named Admarine 12 capsized in Egypt’s Gulf of Suez, the Saudi-based vessel owner ADES Holding Company confirmed on Wednesday.
The incident took place around 130 nautical miles south of the Suez Canal entrance, a key global shipping artery, near the Gabal El-Zeit area — a region known for its offshore oil operations.
The barge was being towed when it overturned, with 30 personnel on board. ADES reported that 23 individuals were successfully rescued, while three ADES staff members and one contractor lost their lives. Efforts are still underway to locate the three missing personnel.
In an official disclosure to the Saudi Exchange, ADES stated that the Admarine 12 is operated by one of its subsidiaries and was working in partnership with Offshore Shukheir Oil Company (OSOCO) on a drilling concession in the Red Sea.
Initial reports from Egypt’s petroleum ministry had incorrectly named the vessel as Adam Marine 12. The ministry later clarified the misidentification.
While the tragic accident raised immediate concerns about possible disruptions to shipping, the Suez Canal Authority assured that the incident has had no impact on the vital waterway’s navigation. “Traffic through the canal remains normal,” said Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, in a statement.
ADES emphasized that the safety and well-being of its personnel is its highest priority. “The company is working closely with local authorities and emergency services,” it said. A full investigation into the causes of the capsizing has been launched.
The Admarine 12 and all personnel involved were comprehensively insured, and ADES confirmed that the incident is not expected to materially affect its financial guidance for the 2025 fiscal year.
The Gulf of Suez is a critical area for Egypt’s oil and gas industry, hosting numerous offshore drilling activities. Accidents in such zones often raise alarms due to the high-risk operations and complex logistics involved.
The mishap has underscored ongoing safety challenges in offshore energy exploration. As rescue teams continue searching for the missing crew members, ADES said further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.
The maritime and energy sectors will closely monitor the outcomes of this inquiry, especially concerning any future safety reforms or operational changes in the Red Sea’s offshore industry.