Th'ailib marks new chapter in MISC's LNG partnership with QatarEnergy

Th'ailib is the first of three newbuild LNG carriers secured by MISC under long-term time charter parties (TCPs) with QatarEnergy. Th’ailib will be chartered to QatarEnergy for a firm period of 15 years from 2026, marking another milestone in MISC’s LNG fleet rejuvenation and disciplined growth agenda.

The delivery of Th’ailib further strengthens MISC’s participation in QatarEnergy’s LNG fleet expansion programme. Following its Phase One participation through a consortium arrangement involving 12 LNG carriers, MISC has further secured three vessels under Phase Two. Collectively, the 15 vessels reinforce MISC’s role in supporting QatarEnergy’s long-term LNG transportation requirements.

Th'ailib represents the next generation of MISC's LNG fleet, strengthening the group’s ability to serve customers reliably and efficiently. With a capacity of 174 000 m³, Th'ailib is equipped with dual-fuel engines, a reliquefaction system, a high-performance anti-fouling hull coating, and an air lubrication system designed to improve fuel efficiency, optimise energy use, and support lower emissions intensity. The vessel is also equipped with advanced navigation, safety, and monitoring systems designed to support safe and efficient operations at sea. Designed and constructed in accordance with applicable International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements and international maritime standards, the vessel strengthens MISC’s ability to deliver efficient and future-ready LNG transportation solutions to customers worldwide.

The vessel also advances MISC's Delivering Progress strategy under its Resilient Core pillar, which focuses on strengthening the Group's foundation through disciplined growth, fleet modernisation, and investment in modern, eco-efficient assets.

Datuk Zahid Osman, President & Group Chief Executive Officer of MISC said: “LNG will continue to play a critical role in meeting the world’s growing need for affordable energy while supporting the broader transition towards lower-emission energy systems, with Qatar remaining a major supplier to markets around the world. Against this backdrop, MISC is privileged to support QatarEnergy’s ambitions and remains focused on delivering the performance that will sustain this partnership well into the future. As the first of three newbuild LNG carriers secured by MISC under our long-term time charter agreement with QatarEnergy, she reflects the strength we have built over decades as an LNG shipowner and the confidence placed in our ability to own and operate sophisticated maritime assets safely, reliably, and efficiently.”

The name Th'ailib is derived from Jabal Thuaileb, located in Qatar's Fox Hills district, drawing inspiration from Qatar's distinctive geography and heritage. Derived from the Arabic word for ‘fox’, the name establishes a meaningful connection between the vessel and the nation whose energy ambitions she will support.

The naming ceremony was attended by representatives from QatarEnergy, MISC, Samsung Heavy Industries, DNV, and other industry partners, together with Puan Zakiah Zainab Zakaria, who served as Lady Sponsor for Th'ailib.

With Th’ailib now entering service, and two additional vessels scheduled for delivery, MISC Group will continue to support QatarEnergy’s long-term LNG transportation requirements while strengthening its contribution to safe, efficient, and lower-emission maritime operations.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/lng-shipping/07102026/thailib-marks-new-chapter-in-miscs-lng-partnership-with-qatarenergy/