Saudi Maritime Congress showcases big data solutions in the maritime sector

The latest innovations and adoption of new technologies in the maritime sector are at the top of the agenda for the third edition of the Saudi Maritime Congress. The event’s goal is to present the most significant developments related to accelerating digital transformation and implementing advanced technological solutions in all sector operations.

The conference, which will take place on September 28 and 29, 2022 at Dhahran Expo in Dammam, aims to provide the best opportunities for developing business models while also exploring opportunities to use big data capabilities and smart technology solutions in the maritime sector.

Ali Shehab, Global Director of Special Projects & Services, DNV Maritime said: “Ships and offshore-related units have been transformed into sophisticated sensor hubs and data generators, producing, and transmitting information from anywhere, even in real time. Connectivity is also reinforced thanks to satellite communications’ innovations, and therefore, an increased amount of data can be transferred at the lowest cost possible. Cloud-based technologies, such as big data platforms and digital twin technologies, are currently gaining ground, while having a significant effect on how vessels, offshore units and their machinery are designed and built, as well as, on how the industry handles information.”

“Decarbonisation and digitalisation are transforming the maritime industry. Through collaboration we can shape solutions that bring value to all stakeholders of the maritime community, globally. And we believe that the upcoming Saudi Maritime Congress is the best platform to help enable these solutions, especially as the Kingdom is experiencing a renaissance in building its maritime capabilities and infrastructures,” Shehab added.

Industry leaders believe that there is an increasing need to use big data solutions in the maritime sector, such as artificial intelligence technology, to help the sector keep up with the general trend of digitisation in other logistics sectors, particularly in air and land freight. This need has grown significantly as a result of the pandemic, as well as the impact of digitisation, remote-control tools, and the sector’s long-term viability.

Les Shortall, Director of Market Development, Maritime, Inmarsat said: “Digitalisation continues to be a driver for enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the maritime industries, also benefiting the welfare of those working at sea. With demand for digital services accelerating dramatically through the pandemic, prompt, reliable and highly efficient data connections are indispensable to accessing cloud services and Big Data applications. Inmarsat’s high-efficiency and high-performance communication solutions are helping to transform the shipping industry and creating the ecosystem for artificial intelligence, greater automation, remote support and proactive maintenance to thrive.

We have greatly appreciated the dynamic and collaborative approach taken by maritime authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where connectivity is always a priority. We would like to acknowledge the drive shown by the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) and Bahri – which manages the world’s largest fleets of crude oil tankers. By participating in this event, we look forward to continuing to exchange views, visions and experiences in this significant market.”

The third edition of the Saudi Maritime Congress is seeing an unprecedented turnout and participation from government agencies as well as major international and regional corporations. This is the first edition to be held in person following the pandemic and the recovery of global economies from its unprecedented effects on the supply chain. The event is co-organized by the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) and Bahri, with the participation of DP World, ATCO, Al-Tamimi and Associates, Red Sea Gateway Terminal, Ince, Inmarsat, and over 50 other leading maritime organizations.

Chris Morley, Group Director – Maritime Events, Informa Markets, said:“Our main goal is to support those contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and help highlight the unlimited potential of the Kingdom, which is located at the heart of international trade routes linking Asia, Africa and Europe. Therefore, we are keen to gather the most important and forward-thinking solutions providers in the world under one roof, to enhance the integration of technology solutions and provide comprehensive digital systems for the maritime sector. The conference represents a golden opportunity to establish strategic partnerships between service providers, investors, and local governments, to promote sustainable development and achieve a qualitative leap that contributes to a sector that aspires to lead in the fields of artificial intelligence and technology.”