Dubai has cemented its position as a leading global maritime hub, ranking fifth worldwide and first in the Arab region in the 2025 International Shipping Centre Development Index released by Xinhua News Agency and the Baltic Exchange.
The report hailed Dubai as “the crown jewel of the Middle East’s maritime sector,” highlighting its comprehensive ecosystem and world-class infrastructure.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said the recognition reflects the emirate’s leadership vision and the effective collaboration between public and private sector partners. He reaffirmed Dubai’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regulatory excellence to further strengthen its maritime business environment.
The report praised Dubai’s broad range of services, including navigation, shipbuilding, repair, and its growing capacity to handle rising global shipping demands. It also spotlighted the Dubai Maritime Transport Plan 2030, which is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and aims to expand maritime transport usage, enhance infrastructure, and develop Dubai Maritime City.
Jebel Ali Port, operated by DP World, was singled out for its strategic role as a regional hub. The port handled 15.5 million TEUs in 2024, its highest volume since 2015, accounting for 18% of DP World’s global throughput. Sustainability measures, such as biofuel provision, solar power, and electric vehicles, have also reduced annual emissions by 2,000 tons of CO₂.
Captain Ibrahim Al Blooshi, Executive Director of Dubai Ports Authority, said the achievement underscores Dubai’s resilience and its commitment to global best practices. He emphasized the role of the emirate’s three ports—Jebel Ali, Port Rashid, and Hamriyah—in advancing the goals of Dubai’s Economic Agenda despite global economic headwinds.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
