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Building a thriving industry at sea The UAE strives to establish a safe, integrated and sustainable maritime sector ■■ Farhana Chowdhury
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ith a culture deeply rooted in marine activities, the UAE continues to maintain its foothold at sea. The marine and offshore industry is abuzz with constant development, thanks to the country’s strategic location at the crossroads of trade. To further maintain quality and smooth operations, there are a number of authorities, such as the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA), to regulate the sector and ensure a safe and productive environment for businesses. Besides a spurt in commerce, there is also a rise in vessels dedicated to tourism, sports and entertainment. As Dubai is just a few years shy of transforming into an important maritime capital of the world, the increase in marine traffic recently led to reinforced operational procedures to enhance safety and stay abreast of federal and local legislation and international treaties set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), a global agency established by the United Nations (UN). “We continue to organise anchoring operations as part of our commitment to integrate aspects of maritime safety, safe navigation and operational efficiency along the coastline,” said Captain Khamis Weld Gmeel, Senior Manager, Marine Traffic Operations, Dubai Maritime City Authority. “This is one of the main pillars set towards enhancing the regional
Connecting maritime network ☞ The UAE’s maritime sector continues to march ahead, as the country reaches out to regional and international ports through several initiatives and build a wellconnected network. ☞ Among these is Seatrade Maritime Middle East (SMME), which is set to take place from October 31 to November 2 in Dubai.
Economic growth in H1 2016 Abu Dhabi Ports, the master developer, operator and manager of the ports and Khalifa Industrial Zone in the capital, experiences continuous growth as the UAE’s maritime trade hub.
77 per cent increase in profit 20 per cent revenue growth 49 per cent surge in cruise traffic 11 per cent increase in TEU containers Dh75 million investment in new equipment The marine and offshore industry is abuzz with constant development, thanks to the country’s strategic location.
and international ship owners and investors’ confidence and to improve the competitiveness of the maritime cluster, which flows into the Maritime Sector Strategy objectives — particularly in the development of services and organising and promoting the
maritime sector aimed at reinforcing Dubai’s status as one of the most competitive maritime capitals in the world.” Keeping up with trends, DMCA implements the latest technology to monitor docked vessels in local territorial waters and provide
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Abu Dhabi, UAE
Join the largest concentration of ship owners & operators within the industry Top reasons to attend:
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☞ Held as part of Dubai Maritime Week, representatives from shipping operators, ports, financiers and associated maritime professionals, are expected to gather for panel sessions.
7 per cent rise in general cargo
25-27 September 2017
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☞ The 8th edition of the economic forum aims to discuss the obstacles and potential of the sector in line with oil price forecasts in the presence of seasoned industry experts.
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Seatrade Maritime Events
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• Be a part of the largest event of its kind outside of the USA • Meet with over 200 offshore marine and workboat companies under one roof • Be part of the exciting new wave of the construction boom and offshore growth of the Middle East • Network with the largest concentration of exhibiting ship owners / operators • Meet with key NOCs, IOCs and EPCs • Maximize your selling opportunities by getting in front of potential new clients • Gain access to one of the world’s most lucrative and developing markets • Track upcoming and ongoing projects within the Oil & Gas, Ports and Marine Civil Engineering sectors
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technical and logistical support services when required. DMCA also undertakes stringent measures to maintain the ecosystem at sea. Through programmes, it reduces the risk of an imbalanced marine life and curbs invasive species and
pollutants for a sustainable industry future. Dubai Maritime City (DMC) is a cluster dedicated to international and local companies that specialise in the sector, and aid in boosting maritime-related activities in the Middle East.
The venue houses industrial, commercial and trading companies, and offers options ranging from small and large workshops and warehouses to ship repair plots and shops, adding variety to the country’s thriving industry. — farhana@khaleejtimes.com