Dubai: The UAE has officially submitted its candidacy for re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category (B). This move underscores the UAE's ongoing commitment to supporting the global maritime navigation system and enhancing the safety and security of international seas.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE's bid for re-election reflects its status as a global maritime power with advanced infrastructure and strategic investments. The country has been an influential member of the IMO since joining in 1980, actively participating in initiatives to reduce emissions and promote multilateral cooperation for safer and more sustainable seas.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted that the UAE's re-nomination aligns with the country's strategic vision to strengthen its presence in international forums. He stated, "The UAE today represents a global maritime hub that combines economic growth with the protection of the marine environment, supported by advanced infrastructure."
The UAE's maritime sector is a significant contributor to the national economy, with over AED135 billion added to the GDP. The country hosts around 27,000 maritime companies and manages 106 ports in 78 countries, making it a central hub for global trade and logistics services. UAE ports are responsible for handling approximately 60 percent of the cargo movement in the Arabian Gulf and process more than 21 million containers annually.
Al Mazrouei pointed out the UAE's investment in smart ports, like Jebel Ali Port, Khalifa Port, and Fujairah Port, which are now pivotal to global supply chains and maritime trade. These ports serve as testbeds for the latest digital and artificial intelligence technologies.
Maritime sustainability is central to the UAE's vision, with initiatives such as the Green Recycling Yards Project for offshore ship recycling and regulations for safe ship dismantling and low-sulfur fuel provision. The UAE is committed to the MARPOL Convention standards and has integrated emission reduction into its Energy Strategy 2050 and National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.
Al Mazrouei emphasized the importance of maritime safety, highlighting the establishment of the National Maritime Navigation Centre and the National Single Window for Maritime Services to enhance operational efficiency. The UAE is also a founding member of the Riyadh Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control and adheres to international conventions that bolster maritime safety and security.
Innovation is a key focus of the UAE's maritime development, with the adoption of autonomous ship technologies, digital certification, and blockchain systems in port management. The UAE is actively involved in the IMO, contributing to the development of global navigation standards and proposing strategic initiatives like expanding the IMO Council membership and including Arabic as an official language.
The UAE is committed to becoming a global maritime leader, driven by its strategic vision and advanced infrastructure, as it continues to shape the future of navigation with responsibility and innovation.