By facilitating knowledge sharing, networking, collaboration, and the signing of important agreements between public and private sectors, the 2023 edition of the UAE Maritime Week proved to be instrumental in driving the progress in the local and regional maritime industry.
Through its power-packed agenda of relevant and thought-provoking sessions, the biennial Week held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI UAE) provided a platform to emphasise sustainability, address environmental concerns, and engage in policy and regulatory discussions. By leveraging the outcomes of such sessions, the UAE can effectively prepare for the upcoming COP28 and the 2023 IMO Council elections, solidifying its position as a leading global maritime hub and contributing to the industry's sustainable growth across the globe.
An integral part of the event was the signing of ground-breaking deals between leading industry entities across the country and the region. Amongst the many partnerships that were announced, the most prominent highlight was the signing of eight MoUs between the ministry and renowned public and private organisations across the nation for the “Blue Pass” initiative, a project launched by the ministry in partnership with Marihub to strengthen the maritime sector. By creating a digital cluster of local, regional, and international maritime authorities and associations through an online portal and smart app, the platform offers transparent and seamless services to its members, making the UAE an attractive destination for foreign investments.
These agreements were signed in the presence of Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and the official ministerial delegation. The signatories included the Department of Ports and Customs Ajman, Fujairah Free Zone, Dubai SME, The Marshall Islands Registry, Monjasa, Emirates Shipping Association (ESA), YoungShip UAE, as well as Allianz Middle East and Stanford Marine. It highlighted the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to enhance the maritime industry's growth and sustainability.
Hosting first “Maritime Ministerial Dialogue”
The event also hosted the inaugural "Maritime Ministerial Dialogue," a gathering of influential industry stakeholders, including international shipowners, ports, and class societies. During this meeting, Al Mazrouei addressed the future vision, emphasised the significance of embracing innovation, and highlighted the importance of adopting digital solutions to drive the sustainable development of the maritime sector. Industry experts discussed the roadmap towards the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy.
The dialogue also emphasised the criticality of international collaboration in unlocking opportunities for renewable marine fuel production, enabling the UAE to effectively fulfil its objectives, strategic directions, and international commitments.
Preparing for COP28
As the nation prepared for the upcoming COP28 and the 2023 IMO Council elections, the maritime week strongly emphasised the country’s efforts in adopting eco-friendly practices and promoting green technologies, serving as a platform for the local sector to showcase its commitment to sustainability.
Chris Hayman, Chairman Emeritus, Seatrade Maritime, said,
"Through ground-breaking initiatives such as the ‘Blue Pass’, strategic investments, forward-thinking policies, and a commitment to innovation, the UAE has achieved incredible milestones that have set new benchmarks for maritime excellence. The nation’s efforts in ensuring seafarers’ well-being, and promoting maritime safety, sustainability, and efficiency, make it a preferred destination for foreign investments. With the help of our worldwide reach and network, we will emphasise the significant achievements of the UAE’s maritime sector. Through this extensive exposure, we will support the UAE’s re-election in the IMO Council under Category B for the fourth consecutive time.”
News Source: Emirates News Agency
