The United Arab Emirates has submitted its candidacy for reelection to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in Category “B”, reaffirming its commitment to support the global maritime navigation system, enhance maritime safety and security, and actively participate in shaping international policies governing the shipping industry.
This nomination marks the culmination of a remarkable journey and highlights the UAE’s status as a global maritime power with advanced infrastructure, flexible legislation, and strategic investments that have made it a model of excellence in maritime sustainability, innovation, and good governance.
The candidacy represents a continuation of the country’s influential role within the organization since its accession in 1980 and its active participation in supporting international initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and fostering multilateral cooperation for safer and more sustainable seas.
His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that the reelection bid to the IMO Council embodies the visionary leadership’s proactive approach to enhancing the UAE’s presence in international forums and organizations while contributing significantly to shaping the future of the global maritime transport sector.
He emphasized that the UAE today serves as a global maritime platform that balances economic growth with marine environmental protection, adhering to the highest standards of innovation and sustainability, underpinned by advanced infrastructure recognized among the best globally. The UAE’s maritime sector is a vital player in the national economy, contributing more than 135 billion dirhams to the GDP.
He noted that there are 27,000 maritime companies operating in the UAE, with national firms managing 106 ports in 78 countries, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a key hub for global trade and logistics services. Moreover, UAE ports account for around 60% of cargo handling in the Arabian Gulf and handle over 21 million containers annually, establishing them as a competitive maritime center with significant economic and strategic implications.
His Excellency also highlighted that the UAE has invested in developing a smart port system that ranks among the most advanced in the world, such as Jebel Ali Port, Khalifa Port, and Fujairah Port, which serve as major centers for supply chains and maritime trade, as well as testing grounds for cutting-edge digital transformation and artificial intelligence technologies.
He pointed out that maritime sustainability is at the core of the UAE’s vision for developing a balanced and eco-friendly maritime sector. In line with this commitment, the country launched the Green Oasis project for ship recycling, the first of its kind in the region, aimed at safely and environmentally friendly dismantling of vessels. Regulatory frameworks for safe ship decommissioning and supplying low-sulfur fuel have been enacted, aligned with the standards of the MARPOL Convention. Additionally, the UAE has included marine emissions reduction in its Energy Strategy 2050 and the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, both aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Minister of Energy and Infrastructure emphasized that maritime safety is a top priority for the UAE, which established the National Center for Maritime Navigation to monitor vessel movements around the clock and launched the Unified National Maritime Window to streamline procedures digitally, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing waiting times at ports.
He noted that the UAE is a founding member of the Riyadh Memorandum of Understanding on the inspection and control of ships and implements a uniform system for port state control, in addition to its commitment to international agreements like SOLAS, STCW, and OPRC, all of which enhance maritime navigation security and safety.
The comprehensive system in place has made the UAE a trustworthy maritime environment, attracting investors and strengthening its position as a global center for shipping and maritime services.
He reiterated that innovation is the cornerstone of the UAE’s maritime sector development, with the country adopting technologies such as autonomous ships, digital certification systems, and blockchain for port management. Moreover, solutions employing artificial intelligence have been integrated to analyze maritime data, increase operational efficiency, and reduce emissions.
The UAE’s involvement in the International Maritime Organization is both active and impactful, regularly participating in the council’s activities and technical committees, contributing to the development of global standards for safe and sustainable navigation. The country has also proposed significant strategic initiatives, including expanding the council’s membership from 40 to 52 members and incorporating Arabic as one of the organization’s official languages, promoting cultural diversity and equitable participation in international decision-making.
His Excellency affirmed that the UAE is confidently advancing towards becoming a global maritime power, leading the future of navigation while connecting the world responsibly, sustainably, and innovatively, anchored by its strategic vision, national competencies, and advanced infrastructure which serves as a global benchmark.