Abu Dhabi Launches MARSDNA: A Digital Tool for Maritime ESG Goals

The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Maritime, a part of AD Ports Group, has launched MARSDNA, an innovative tool designed to assist maritime sector stakeholders in achieving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

Developed by Maqta Technologies Group, MARSDNA is a user-friendly digital platform that helps maritime businesses measure their performance on national and international ESG metrics. The tool offers near-instant, tailored recommendations to strengthen their sustainability efforts.

MARSDNA invites users to complete a free questionnaire available on the Abu Dhabi Maritime website. Based on the responses, the tool grades users’ ESG progress and generates a comprehensive, downloadable report with actionable insights and resources to guide further improvements.

The name “MARSDNA,” which stands for ‘Maritime Sustainability DNA,’ also refers to the Arabic word for observatory, symbolizing a breakthrough in promoting sustainable practices in the maritime industry.

By consolidating information from various ESG standards, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the International Maritime Organisation, MARSDNA makes ESG tracking simple and accessible. The tool is available at no cost and is designed for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium enterprises.

In its initial phase, MARSDNA focuses on five key sectors within the maritime value chain: shipping companies, port and terminal operators, freight forwarders and cargo beneficiaries, marine and offshore services, and marina operators. Future phases will expand the tool’s scope to cover the entire maritime sector.

Abu Dhabi Mobility emphasized that the launch of MARSDNA aligns with its ongoing commitment to sustainability and supporting ESG initiatives in the maritime industry.

Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, described MARSDNA as a pioneering tool that will drive significant advancements in ESG efforts within the sector.

Dr. Noura Al Dhaheri, CEO of Maqta Technologies Group and Digital Cluster at AD Ports Group, added, “MARSDNA demonstrates AD Ports Group’s commitment to sustainable development through cutting-edge digital solutions. This tool will empower users to achieve their environmental objectives and help Abu Dhabi position itself as a global leader in maritime sustainability.”