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. Through 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 sustainable growth of the industry across the globe.
An integral part of the UAE Maritime Week was the signing of ground-breaking deals between leading industry entities across the country and the region. Amongst the many partnerships that were announced during the Week, 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 MOEI UAE 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, thereby making the UAE an attractive destination for foreign investments.
These agreements were signed in the presence of H.E. Eng. Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and the official ministerial delegation. The signatories included the Department of Ports & 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, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to enhance the maritime industry's growth and sustainability.
Hosting the first “Maritime Ministerial Dialogue”
The UAE Maritime Week also hosted the inaugural "Maritime Ministerial Dialogue," a ground-breaking gathering that united influential industry stakeholders, including renowned international shipowners, ports, and class societies. During this esteemed meeting, H.E. Eng. Suhail Al Mazrouei addressed future visions, emphasised the significance of embracing innovation, and highlighted the importance of adopting digital solutions to drive the sustainable development of the maritime sector. Renowned industry experts further delved into discussions regarding 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 fulfil its objectives, strategic directions, and international commitments effectively.
Preparing for the COP28
As the nation prepares for the upcoming COP28 and the 2023 IMO Council elections, the UAE Maritime Week placed a strong emphasis on 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’ wellbeing, promoting maritime safety, sustainability, and efficiency, make it a preferred destination for foreign investments. At our end, 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.”
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