UAE excellence is a global model of logistics leadership.
The UAE's Maritime Excellence: A Global Model of Logistics Leadership
The UAE has established its global leadership in the maritime sector, building on a proven track record of achievements, advanced legislation, and strategic investments that have made it a model for maritime sustainability, advanced infrastructure, and sound governance.
Thanks to its strategic geographic location at the heart of global trade routes, the UAE is a pivotal logistics hub connecting Eastern and Western markets. Today, it boasts one of the most advanced maritime infrastructures in the region, with container handling at the country's ports reaching approximately 21 million TEUs in 2023, setting record levels in facilitating trade and the flow of goods. The maritime sector's contribution to the GDP reached approximately AED 135 billion, reflecting the economic importance of this vital sector.
A Prime Destination for Commercial Vessels
The UAE is a prime destination for commercial vessels in the region, thanks to its integrated services, high operational capabilities, and advanced digital systems that support efficient logistics operations. It has prioritized the development of human capital in the maritime sector, and, through the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and maritime management experts, has organized specialized training workshops in cooperation with the International Maritime Organization.
Maritime Academies and Digital Systems
The UAE has established several maritime academies, such as the Sharjah Maritime Academy and the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, in addition to training programs at the Higher Colleges of Technology. These institutions have graduated approximately 497 marine officers and engineers, including 100 female marine officers and engineers, a step that underscores the country's support for the role of women in this vital sector.
The UAE is a leading developer of digital and smart systems in the maritime shipping sector, having launched pioneering projects such as the Blue Passage, Maqta Gateway, Box Bay System, and CargoSpeed, in addition to automated container loading systems used in Abu Dhabi and Dubai ports. These advanced technologies contribute to reducing carbon emissions, increasing supply chain efficiency, and providing an integrated model for logistics automation.
UAE companies' investments in the maritime sector extend to more than 78 countries, contributing to the development of ports and marine terminals, building trade bridges, and promoting automation and digitization in the global shipping sector. The number of ports operated by UAE national entities worldwide has reached 106, reflecting the country's advanced logistics position and its pivotal role in connecting global markets.
Decarbonization
The UAE has been keen to align its national strategy with the goals of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and has announced its full support for efforts to decarbonize maritime transport. It has also contributed to funding a dedicated fund to assist island states and developing countries in participating in IMO meetings, promoting the principle of inclusiveness and equality.
The UAE has actively participated in the organization's regular meetings and presented qualitative initiatives to develop international regulations and standards. The UAE is now seeking to renew its membership in the organization's Council to continue fulfilling its vital role as a flag state, port, and coastal state, and as a major energy source.
Consolidating Leadership as a Global Maritime Power
Suhail bin Mohammed Faraj Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, "The UAE is making confident strides towards consolidating its leadership as a global maritime power, thanks to the vision of our wise leadership and the efforts of all those working in this sector. Today, we are working to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and intelligent maritime transport system, strengthening our position as a major contributor to shaping the future of global shipping."
He added, "We are working today to support the integration of digitization and sustainability across various components of the sector, whether through legislative frameworks or the adoption of advanced technologies such as autonomous ships. This reflects our commitment to enhancing the efficiency of maritime operations and achieving environmental sustainability at the same time. He emphasized that the UAE believes that innovation is the driver of the future, and we are ready to share our knowledge with the international community to serve common goals."
He continued, "Our membership in the IMO Council represents a responsibility stemming from our ongoing commitment to best practices and our keenness to transfer our expertise and support other countries towards a safe, clean, and advanced maritime sector. We believe that the UAE, with its human, technical, and investment capabilities, is capable of continuing to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the maritime sector globally."
One of the strategic pillars of the UAE's vision
For his part, Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Infrastructure and Transport, said that the maritime sector is one of the strategic pillars of the UAE's vision to build an integrated, sustainable, and smart transportation system that aligns with the goals of building a diversified economy based on knowledge and modern technologies.
He added that the UAE, through its maritime infrastructure that is among the most modern and efficient in the world, has enabled global supply chains, enhanced port readiness, and linked regional and international markets in a flexible and safe manner. He reiterated his commitment to continuing to lead and actively contribute to developing the future of maritime transport at the regional and global levels.
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