MOEI launches “UAE Maritime Network” to reinforce maritime investments

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) has launched the UAE Maritime Network initiative, which aims to support international maritime organisations and promote the UAE as a global maritime hub and an ideal environment for maritime investments.

The project supports the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen the standing of the maritime industry in the UAE abroad. In addition to being a significant contributor to the Projects of the 50, the Maritime Network initiative supports MOEI’s goal of establishing and enhancing alternative economic components to the oil sector.

The ministry will start making a communications network consisting of various regional and international maritime entities. That will serve as a platform for launching other initiatives, activities and events. This will also act as a hub for knowledge of global maritime stakeholders to know about investment opportunities in the UAE’s maritime industry.

H.E. Eng. Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure said: “Launching the Maritime Network is one of our key initiatives in preparation for the next 50 years, especially since the maritime sector contributes more than AED 90 billion annually to the UAE’s economy. We will double this figure in a few years by empowering the sector and the organisations operating under its umbrella.”

Consolidating capacity and interconnected capabilities

The UAE plays a vital role in global seaborne trade with more than 27,000 maritime companies operating in the nation. The country’s strategic location has contributed to making it a leading hub for maritime businesses in the GCC, East Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.

Another one of the UAE’s main goals is innovation. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has consistently supported the growth of the maritime industry, encouraged the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and worked to make the UAE more competitive by ensuring that it meets international standards for maritime safety and the preservation of the marine environment.

H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure said: “The strategy of moving towards a blue economy in the UAE is based on several pillars, including innovation, creativity, research and development, as well as strong connections with regional and global maritime companies. The Maritime Network will unify the sector in the UAE, and will support the growth of the industry in the nation through a comprehensive government system. The UAE houses the headquarters of many international maritime companies. We seek to create an inclusive platform at the national level that includes all the influential players in the maritime sector to enhance our capabilities and catalyse the development of the industry globally.”