UAE Submits Candidacy For Category B Membership In International Maritime Organisation Council

The UAE has put forward its candidacy for re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category (B). This move highlights the UAE's dedication to bolstering global maritime navigation, ensuring sea safety, and influencing international maritime transport policies. The UAE's status as a maritime leader is underscored by its advanced infrastructure and strategic investments in sustainability and innovation.

The UAE's involvement with the IMO dates back to 1980. Since then, it has played a significant role in supporting initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and fostering multilateral cooperation for safer seas. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that the UAE’s re-nomination reflects its leadership's vision to enhance the country's presence in global forums and contribute to shaping the future of maritime transport.

Al Mazrouei highlighted that the UAE is a global maritime hub, balancing economic growth with marine environment protection. He noted that the country adheres to high standards of innovation and sustainability, supported by world-class infrastructure. The maritime sector significantly contributes over AED135 billion to the national GDP, with around 27,000 companies operating within the UAE.

The UAE has invested heavily in smart ports like Jebel Ali Port, Khalifa Port, and Fujairah Port. These ports are pivotal in global supply chains and serve as testing grounds for digital transformation technologies. The UAE ports handle about 60% of cargo movement in the Arabian Gulf region and process over 21 million containers annually.

Innovation is central to the UAE’s maritime sector development. The country has embraced autonomous ship technologies, digital certification, blockchain systems in port management, and artificial intelligence solutions. These advancements help analyze maritime data, improve operational efficiency, and reduce emissions.

The Green Recycling Yards Project exemplifies the UAE's commitment to sustainability. It is the first regional initiative for offshore ship recycling using safe methods. Additionally, regulations have been issued for safe ship dismantling and low-sulfur fuel provision, aligning with MARPOL Convention standards.

Enhancing Maritime Safety

Maritime safety remains a top priority for the UAE. The National Maritime Navigation Centre monitors vessel movements continuously while the National Single Window for Maritime Services streamlines procedures digitally. These initiatives have improved operational efficiency and reduced port waiting times.

The UAE is a founding member of the Riyadh Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control. It implements unified port state control systems alongside international conventions like SOLAS, STCW, and OPRC to strengthen maritime safety and security.

Influence within IMO

The UAE actively participates in IMO Council work and technical committees, contributing to developing global standards for safe navigation. It has proposed expanding IMO Council membership from 40 to 52 members and including Arabic as an official language to promote cultural diversity in decision-making.

"The UAE is confidently advancing on its path to becoming a global maritime power that leads the future of navigation," Al Mazrouei stated. Guided by strategic vision and advanced infrastructure, it aims to connect the world responsibly through sustainability and innovation.

With inputs from WAM