UAE Secures Membership In IMO Council Category B For Fifth Consecutive Time

The UAE has secured its place in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category B for the fifth time in a row. This achievement underscores the UAE's significant role in shaping maritime transport both regionally and globally. The success is attributed to the UAE's comprehensive efforts to develop a robust maritime sector, supported by advanced legislative frameworks and digital services.

These initiatives have enhanced ship safety and backed international emissions-reduction efforts, solidifying the UAE's status as a key player in global maritime transport efficiency and sustainability. The international community's growing confidence in the UAE's maritime ecosystem is evident through its world-class infrastructure, leading ports, advanced logistics services, and a flexible regulatory environment.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, congratulated the UAE leadership on this occasion. He highlighted that the leadership’s vision and support have been crucial in developing an advanced maritime sector. This sector has become a vital pillar of both the national economy and global trade systems.

Al Mazrouei stated, "Today, the UAE is leading the maritime sector both regionally and globally through an advanced legislative framework and forward-looking policies that contribute to enhancing the security and sustainability of the seas and strengthening the sector’s readiness for future challenges." He credited wise leadership for establishing a sophisticated maritime foundation that serves as a global model.

The minister further noted that being elected to the IMO Council with the highest number of votes signifies international recognition of the UAE’s pioneering role in global maritime transport. It also reflects confidence in the UAE’s ability to advance a legislative ecosystem supporting an efficient, flexible, and sustainable maritime sector.

Since joining IMO in 1980, the UAE has actively participated in developing international maritime legislation. Its election to the IMO Council in 2017 marked significant contributions towards enhancing maritime safety, reducing carbon emissions, protecting marine environments, and developing navigation policies over five terms.

Commitment to Global Maritime Collaboration

The renewal of membership places greater responsibility on the UAE to shape future global maritime policies. This includes promoting innovation, modern technologies, and supporting efforts for a safe, clean, resilient system capable of responding to climate challenges while supporting global supply chains.

Al Mazrouei concluded: "The United Arab Emirates will continue to work with its international partners and global maritime bodies to strengthen the competitiveness of the global maritime sector and support the transition toward a system that is more sustainable and innovative."

With inputs from WAM