UAE solidifies its prominent position as top maritime hub

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has further solidified its prominent position among the world’s premier maritime hubs, emerging as a key influencer in the global development of the maritime industry. The UAE’s practices, decisions, and legislative actions have been instrumental in the growth of the sector and the enhancement of international maritime safety standards, as well as the preservation of the global marine environment.

In 2017, the UAE was first elected to the International Maritime organisation (IMO) Council, category B, was re-elected in 2019, and received the highest number of votes in the 2021 elections.

The UAE is looking forward to be re-elected for the fourth consecutive time in the elections that will take place from Nov.27 to Dec.6 2023 in London. The UAE aims to continue its effective role in strengthening maritime legislation and regulations to serve the shipping sector and international trade.

Commenting on the UAE’s role within the International Maritime organisation, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The UAE has become one of the world’s foremost maritime nations. In 2022, the maritime sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP surged to Dhs129 billion, an impressive 18% increase compared to 2021. The country has achieved numerous accolades in global competitiveness indicators within the maritime sector.

It was ranked 3rd globally in transport services trade and the Bunker Supply Index and claimed the 5th position as a major competitive maritime hub worldwide.

The UAE’s ports are among the top 10 globally in terms of container handling volume.

They handled over 19 million TEUs, with more than 25,000 port calls recorded in the UAE. Our concerted efforts in sea, land, railway, and air transport are harmonised towards achieving sustainability and reducing emissions. Globally, the UAE ranks seventh in the Logistics Performance Index.”

Al Mazrouei added, “Through the UAE’s membership in the IMO Council, we are committed to collaborating with other member states in advancing the global maritime sector and the shipping industry. Our collective mission is to promote the safety, security, and efficiency of maritime transport in clean oceans, in line with the IMO’s goals.

The UAE has been actively engaged in introducing significant amendments to various decisions that contribute to the development and enhancement of the work system, ensuring alignment with global changes and modern technologies. These amendments are designed to alleviate the burden on ship owners and maritime companies, while also contributing to the safety, security, and protection of the marine environment worldwide.”

Eng.Hassan Mohamed Juma Al-Mansoori, Undersecretary for the Infrastructure and Transport Sector at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The UAE’s seaborne trade and transshipment efforts cater to most of countries such as China, India, the Gulf States, Central Asia, and extending to Eastern Europe. Our country is committed to fulfilling its responsibility in establishing a sustainable platform for sharing expertise among maritime nations and organisations, thereby promoting best practices and enriching technical and legal discussions within the IMO. We will continue to submit proposals aimed at enhancing regulations for safety, security, and the preservation of the marine environment.”