UAE & DNV launch Maritime Decarbonization Center

In a groundbreaking move, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) has unveiled plans for the “UAE Maritime Decarbonization Center” in collaboration with DNV, solidifying the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainability and energy transition. This landmark initiative marks the first-of-its-kind Center in the MENA region and the fourth globally, setting a new standard for maritime decarbonization worldwide.

The official signing ceremony took place at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London, UK, bringing together high-level government officials, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to celebrate this momentous occasion.

The center aims to leverage DNV’s expertise and the UAE’s strategic geographic location and maritime influence to drive research, innovation, and collaboration among key stakeholders, accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices, technologies, and policies in the maritime sector.

UAE Minister of Energy, H.E Suhail AlMazrouei, expressed his ambition for the UAE to excel in international maritime indicators, highlighting the country’s competitive business environment, which attracts major international maritime companies. He emphasized the UAE’s unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices within the maritime industry.

The establishment of the UAE Maritime Decarbonization Center aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, demonstrating the country’s dedication to achieving ambitious sustainability goals and leading the global fight against climate change. The Center will serve as a hub for research, development, and implementation of innovative technologies and strategies to reduce CO2 emissions in the maritime industry. It will also conduct joint-industry projects, incubator and accelerator programs, and talent development initiatives.

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the Center in accelerating the move towards a decarbonized future.

As the UAE prepares to host COP28, the UAE Maritime Decarbonization Center will strengthen the country’s position as a hub for sustainable innovation and global collaboration during the event. The Center is aligned with the vision of positioning the UAE as a global leader in the sustainable maritime sector and driving the transition towards a greener future.

The partnership complements other quality projects and initiatives already launched by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, including the UAE Maritime Cluster initiative and the Maritime Network. These initiatives aim to build a global network of professionals and experts, enhancing the competitiveness of the UAE’s maritime sector and promoting it on the global stage, capitalizing on the strong presence of international maritime companies in the UAE.