Latest news with #EmiratesShippingAssociation
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Emirates Shipping Congress and IEC Telecom drive maritime digital transformation at UAE Maritime Week
Dubai, UAE: IEC Telecom took the lead in accelerating maritime digitalisation in the GCC at the Emirates Shipping Congress, held on the opening day of UAE Maritime Week and organised by Emirates Shipping Association. A leading international satcom solutions provider co-curated a high-impact session in collaboration with the Association to spotlight the latest advancements in marine communications. The UAE's 2030 vision for digital transformation in the maritime industry includes technologies such as IoT, big data analytics, AI and real-time fleet management, with satellite telecommunication being the backbone of this process. In this evolving landscape, the effective management of onboard network assets has become increasingly critical. 'Connectivity is no longer a luxury but a fundamental utility, driving a new era of maritime innovation,' stated Nabil Ben Soussia, Group Chief Commercial Officer at IEC Telecom, addressing delegates of the Emirates Shipping Congress at 'Navigating the Digital Seas: Maritime Transformation Powered by Satcom' panel discussion. With high-speed LEO technology—pioneered by Starlink—the latest digital technologies are becoming increasingly available on board. According to the 2024 progress report, 75,000 vessels were connected to the network last year and this number continues to soar. That said, maritime connectivity is very complex and is subject to service availability, weather conditions and local regulations. 'No single vessel operates over a single network, particularly in the GCC. Typically, vessels would leverage LEO for international shipping routes, regional GEO operators for internal waters and GSM close to the shore. Each network has different access protocols and a range of applications, adapted to different bandwidths,' explained Nabil Ben Soussia, Group CCO, IEC Telecom Group. Considering the complexity of modern marine communications, network management is essential to ensure operational efficiency and agility on board. Advanced network management platforms like IEC Telecom's OptiView are designed to help operators maximise user experience over each network. It also paves way to improved resource management, allowing fleet managers to activate or deactivate lines, reallocating airtime across the fleet as situation demands to ensure every megabyte is used strategically. 'We may not be able to teleport crew or cargo, but we can maximise digital infrastructure to stay agile and efficient,'- as co-lead of the session, Mr. Ben Soussia highlighted how evolving network engineering trends aim to boost both operational efficiency and cost optimisation. He noted that since 2019, the maritime sector has faced significant challenges—from global cataclysms and geopolitical shifts, fluctuating demand caused by sanctions and shifting trade policies to rerouted shipping lanes away from conflict zones and pandemic-related port closures. In this dynamic landscape, agility and cost-efficiency are now essential for vessel operators to stay competitive. The latest version of OptiView was unveiled last month at Singapore Maritime Week. Mr. Ben Soussia announced that the service is now available globally, with GCC customers first in line for migration. As part of Emirates Shipping Association's ongoing efforts to support innovation, digital resilience, and member education, the Congress serves as a strategic forum to spotlight emerging technologies and enable real-world collaboration. 'Emirates Shipping Congress was established as a platform for thought leadership and knowledge exchange, designed specifically to serve the evolving needs of the UAE maritime sector,' stated Huma Qureshi, General Manager of Emirates Shipping Association. 'As a new generation of digitally fluent seafarers joins the industry, understanding the operational implications of maritime digitalisation has never been more critical. Today's session offered our members and distinguished guests a clear and practical roadmap for transformation. We extend our sincere thanks to our partners from IEC Telecom for their invaluable insights and collaboration.' The Emirates Shipping Congress emerged as a cornerstone event in the UAE's Maritime Week, offering a vital platform to address regional priorities and global trends. Experts like IEC Telecom help maritime stakeholders navigate the complexities of digital transformation. The UAE Maritime Week incorporates a very comprehensive calendar of events unfolding in Dubai until 9 May. About IEC Telecom Group IEC Telecom Group is an international satellite service operator with nearly three decades of engineering expertise in voice and data services. The brand's portfolio includes a wide range of satellite products, LEO/GEO/LTE solutions, and value-added services. The Group is on a mission to spread digitalisation at sea for all vessel types. With an in-house network engineering team, IEC Telecom designs bespoke connectivity solutions for projects of any complexity. In addition, with global stock management, the company delivers worldwide. IEC Telecom has offices across nine countries: France, UAE, Norway, Sweden, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Mallorca. About Emirates Shipping Association Emirates Shipping Association represents and advocates for the UAE's maritime cluster. By working closely with industry stakeholders and policymakers, the Association is dedicated to enhancing the UAE's status as a global maritime hub while advancing sustainability and innovation in the sector.
Mid East Info
18-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
The UAE Strengthens Its Position as a Global Maritime Hub and Takes Action on Decarbonisation - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Emirates Shipping Association highlights how the UAE is solidifying its position as a global maritime powerhouse, leveraging strategic policies, a prime location, and a bold commitment to sustainability. UAE: A Global Maritime Powerhouse Over the past five years, the UAE has become a key destination for global maritime companies, offering advantages such as a zero-income tax policy, world-class infrastructure, and a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia. H.E. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, reaffirmed the UAE's leading role in shaping the maritime industry: 'The UAE is among the most influential countries in developing the maritime industry and has established its pioneering status among the leading maritime hubs globally. With a mission to bring together ship owners, industry suppliers, and key decision-makers in the sector through strategic networking opportunities and closed-door leadership roundtables, Emirates Shipping Association aims to help its members promote, secure, and expand the global maritime industry.' Accelerating Decarbonisation: UAE's First LNG Bunkering Milestone While decarbonisation is often seen as a long-term goal, Monjasa's LNG bunkering milestone proves that tangible progress is happening today. On 4 January 2025, Monjasa successfully conducted the Middle East's first LNG bunkering operation at Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal B, supplying Costa Cruises, part of Carnival Corporation. This was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Carnival, Costa Cruises, ADNOC L&S, and the UAE's federal and local authorities, who continue to drive maritime innovation. Anders Østergaard, Group CEO of Monjasa, stated: 'Actions speak louder than words. This successful operation marks the UAE's commitment to alternative fuels today, not just in the future. We are actively contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable maritime sector. This achievement is not just about LNG; it is about showing that change is happening now, thanks to the UAE's vision and leadership in sustainable shipping.' Monjasa continues to collaborate with UAE authorities, energy companies, and shipowners to develop the LNG bunkering infrastructure to support the region's expanding dual-fuel fleet. Balancing Economic Growth with Sustainability Shipping accounts for 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, but remains the most carbon-efficient transport mode (10-15g CO₂ per tonne-kilometre) compared to road (60-150g) and air (500+g). UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan underscored the importance for balance: 'Maritime transport must decarbonise while ensuring economic growth. Balancing environmental sustainability, regulatory compliance, and economic demands is essential for a resilient future.' With Dubai having hosted COP28 in 2024 and demonstrating leadership in sustainability, the UAE is positioning itself as a leader in green shipping solutions. Investing in Future Maritime Leaders To advance decarbonisation efforts, Emirates Shipping Association, under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), partnered with A.P. Moller-Mærsk to host UAE maritime leaders in Copenhagen for MLP24. Industry experts from Mærsk Line, the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, and MAN Energy Solutions shared key insights on dual-fuel technology and retrofitting vessels to meet evolving sustainability standards. Dr. Waddah S. Ghanem Al Hashmi, Sr. Director at ENOC, Board Member at Emirates Shipping Association, and MLP24 Program Director, highlighted: 'The Maritime Leadership Program is a testament to our commitment to advancing the UAE maritime industry. By providing our leaders with access to the latest innovations and best practices, we are ensuring they are well-equipped to drive sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global maritime sector.' Emirates Shipping Association Launches Specialised Committees to Drive Maritime Sector Advancement In its ongoing commitment to enhance the UAE's maritime industry, the Association has launched specialised committees to advance key industry initiatives, including: – Advancing the UAE registry as a flag state – Standardising UAE tax policies – Decarbonisation and alternative fuel adoption – Leadership and sustainability initiatives These committees provide a platform for collaboration, enabling members to engage with industry and government stakeholders, including the Ministries of Energy and Infrastructure, Finance, and Economy. By participating in these committees, members can actively contribute to the growth, innovation, and global competitiveness of the maritime sector. A Young Shipping Nation with a Bold Vision As the UAE expands its shipping registry and attracts global players, the Association is working with government entities to enhance ship finance, maritime law, and essential industry services in Dubai. Huma Qureshi, General Manager of Emirates Shipping Association noted: 'Our focus is on creating a cohesive ecosystem that integrates sustainability, innovation, and economic growth. The opportunities for maritime companies here are immense, and Dubai's strategic positioning gives it a unique edge.' About Emirates Shipping Association: Emirates Shipping Association represents and advocates for the UAE's maritime cluster. By working closely with industry stakeholders and policymakers, the Association is dedicated to enhancing the UAE's status as a global maritime hub while advancing sustainability and innovation in the sector.
