Latest news with #GCC
Khaleej Times
36 minutes ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Charting the future of maritime excellence: The TMS awards and Middle East's maritime transformation
The maritime industry in the Middle East is undergoing a dynamic transformation, powered by smart port technologies, sustainable fuels, and digital innovation. Leading this shift is the UAE, with significant investments in LNG-powered vessels, AI-driven operations, and major port infrastructure projects strengthening its role in global trade. Recent market research shows that the Middle East & Africa maritime analytics market, valued at $34.68 million in 2023, is projected to reach $48.57 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7.0 per cent. Amid this momentum, companies are seeking to connect, expand, and gain recognition. One standout platform that has enabled these ambitions is The Maritime Standard (TMS) Awards. Since its inception in 2014, these awards have emerged as a premier platform for celebrating excellence and innovation. Now in its second decade, the event continues to bring together global maritime leaders and innovators in Dubai, serving as a catalyst for collaboration and offering unique opportunities to engage with regional players and explore the advanced capabilities of the UAE, the wider GCC, and the Indian Subcontinent. What began as an event hosting just around 500 guests has grown significantly, with its 11th edition last year witnessing over 1200 attendees. A notable milestone in the Awards' history came in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the event was successfully hosted on an international scale. Despite global challenges, the event brought together various sectors, trades, and regions by collaborating closely with the authorities, including the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), along with industry stakeholders. At a time when physical gatherings were nearly impossible, the Awards served as a vital platform for connection. With each passing year, the event has continued to raise the bar, and the upcoming 2025 edition - celebrated under the theme 'Arabia: Its Rich History and Culture' - is poised to set an even higher benchmark. Trevor Pereira, Managing Director of The Maritime Standard FZ LLC and Flagship Events LLC, highlighted the significance of these Awards in supporting the sector's growth and the steps that companies must take to stay competitive and aligned with future trends. He emphasised the importance of staying ahead both technologically and strategically as the maritime sector embraces a new wave of innovation and sustainability. 'Maritime companies must remain up to date with the technological developments in the environmental sector, not only in areas such as the transition to alternative fuels, but also in the increasing relevance of digital innovations such as artificial intelligence. Attending the TMS Awards provide a valuable opportunity for companies to witness firsthand the progress being made in these critical areas. Such exposure often informs and inspires organisations to pursue similar initiatives themselves. The Awards also offer companies a valuable platform to enhance brand awareness and showcase their achievements to a global audience,' he stated. Pereira added: 'For the 2025 edition, we expect to welcome approximately 1,200 leading industry executives, with delegations expected from across the GCC and the Indian Subcontinent, as well as from further afield, including Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Far East.' This year, TMS has introduced two new award categories. Recognising that digitalisation has become a key strategic priority for many companies in the maritime sector, and to underscore the importance of initiatives in this area, TMS will, for the first time, present 'The Digital Transformation Award.' Additionally, the second new category, 'Heavylift/ Project Cargo Company of the Year Award,' reflects the growing demand for specialised maritime services to support the delivery of major energy and infrastructure projects across the region. The Awards also include a range of categories, such as 'The Technology/ Innovations Award,' which recognises the critical role of research, development, and innovation, as well as others that focus on sustainability issues. Several awards have been dedicated to sustainable practices, which include 'The Environmental Protection Award,' 'The Green Shipping Award,' and 'The Sustainable Shipping Award,' that underscore the alignment of TMS with the blue economy goals of the UAE's wise leadership and reward those companies and individuals making exceptional contributions toward achieving these important national goals. 'The UAE's commitment to developing a sustainable blue economy, including advancements in maritime transport and renewable energy, is strongly reflected throughout the Awards, with nominees across all categories required to highlight their contributions to environmental protection and decarbonisation,' Trevor said. The TMS Awards have undertaken several initiatives to spotlight emerging talent and support the next generation of maritime industry leaders, including the introduction of categories such as the 'Maritime Education and Training Award.' They have also partnered with several vessel operators to facilitate cadetship opportunities for young individuals. A particularly impactful initiative involves inviting various regional colleges and institutions to nominate candidates for the 'Cadet of the Year,' which offers instant recognition as the top cadet, and the opportunity to be awarded a contract on stage. Delivered in collaboration with Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC), the initiative aims to encourage greater participation and promote excellence across the maritime sector. The Awards also feature the 'Young Person In Shipping' category, which recognises and celebrates emerging talent in the industry, and the 'Woman in Shipping Award,' which aims to address gender imbalance in the industry by acknowledging the outstanding contributions of a new generation of female leaders and encourage young women to pursue careers in shipping and maritime. While these awards provide strong recognition, Trevor highlights that participation in related industry events can further provide platforms for networking and delivering targeted content designed to help maritime companies remain competitive and stay abreast of ongoing technical and commercial trends. Notable among these are the TMS Tanker Conference, taking place on October 30 at the Atlantis, which will address key technical developments in tanker shipping; the TMS Transportation and Climate Change Conference, scheduled for September 25 at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort in Abu Dhabi, with a strong focus on new technologies enabling decarbonisation of transportation; the TMS Ship Finance and Trade Conference (SFTC), set for February 2026 in Dubai; and the TMS Golf Classic, held the day after SFTC. As the maritime sector continues to evolve at pace, The Maritime Standard Awards remain a vital platform for recognising excellence, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainability. Through its expanding range of categories, strategic partnerships, and commitment to nurturing future talent, the Awards not only celebrate past achievements but also help shape the industry's future. With the 2025 edition set to raise the bar even higher, TMS aims to continue driving progress across the regional and global maritime landscape.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Crowds flock to enrol for ‘KMUT' at CM's outreach
Chennai: The first day of the Ungaludan Stalin initiative saw a heavy turnout across the city and state, with hundreds lining up to enrol for the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai (KMUT) scheme. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Women, many of whom said they never received the monthly 1,000 assistance, walked into to the multi-departmental camps set up in neighbourhoods to submit fresh applications. Chief minister M K Stalin launched the initiative from Chidambaram in Cuddalore district, where he personally handed over benefits to a few applicants, including a hearing aid, a health insurance card under the CM's Comprehensive Health Scheme, and a Tangedco name transfer order. All eligible women who submit applications at these camps would be given the monthly assistance, he said interacting with a few applicants and promised them a speedy resolution of their grievances, he said. "We will conduct 10,000 camps under the programme," he said. Senior ministers and district collectors inaugurated the camps simultaneously across the state. In Chennai, seven camps were held under the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) limits with participation from over 30 departments, including health, social welfare, minority welfare, CMDA, Tangedco, special projects, and GCC. Six camps were held across other districts. At the Nolambur camp alone, over 400 people turned up by 11 am. L Inbavalli, a resident, who she came for the KMUT scheme said, "I got the funds for a few months since launch but it did not come after that. So, I am applying again." Officials did door-to-door visits to identify schemes people wanted and gave them forms, which they have to submit at the meeting. Some, like K Bhuvaneshwari, who they never enrolled in the scheme we assured they would added to the beneficiaries list in 10 days. The state planned 10,000 such neighbourhood camps between July 15 and November.
Arabian Business
an hour ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Saudi inflation holds steady at 2.3% in June 2025 as consumer and wholesale prices stabilise
Saudi Arabia's inflation rate remained stable at 2.3 per cent in June 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, according to the latest data released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). On a monthly basis, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) also showed no significant movement, holding steady with a 0.2 per cent increase from May 2025. The CPI tracks changes in the prices paid by consumers for a basket of 490 goods and services, compiled using data from the 2018 Household Income and Expenditure Survey. Saudi inflation 2025 The Wholesale Price Index (WPI), which measures changes in prices at the producer level, remained relatively stable at 2.1 per cent year-on-year. However, it saw a slight monthly decline of 0.1 per cent in June. Annual CPI (June 2025 vs June 2024): 2.3 per cent Monthly CPI (June 2025 vs May 2025): 0.2 per cent Annual WPI: 2.1 per cent Monthly WPI change: -0.1 per cent The stability in both consumer and wholesale prices suggests that the Kingdom is maintaining effective inflation control measures, even as other global economies continue to grapple with price volatility and cost-of-living concerns.
Daily Tribune
2 hours ago
- Daily Tribune
Norwegian Cruise Line Offers GCC Travelers a Relaxed, Authentic Way to Explore Europe
As European summer travel becomes more crowded and expensive, Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL) is offering a refreshing alternative — a more relaxed, flexible, and value-packed way to experience Europe through its cruise itineraries. Recognized as the Middle East's Leading Cruise Line for three years in a row, NCL is seeing a growing trend among GCC travelers who are choosing to explore Europe during the quieter "shoulder seasons" — spring and early autumn. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more authentic experience in Europe's most iconic destinations. Instead of rushing through busy airports and crowded city centers, NCL passengers can enjoy a calm and immersive journey across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, all while unpacking just once. In 2025 and 2026, the cruise line will offer more than 160 voyages during the shoulder season, with trips lasting from 7 to 15 days and stopping in breathtaking ports across Greece, Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, Norway, Iceland, and more. Passengers can embark from popular European cities like Athens, Barcelona, Rome, and Lisbon, with itineraries featuring longer port stays — including overnight stops in destinations like Istanbul. These extended visits give travelers time to soak in golden sunsets in Santorini, wander through Tuscany's rolling countryside, or uncover hidden gems without the pressure of tight schedules. NCL's 'More' Philosophy: Travel That Feels Personal At the core of Norwegian Cruise Line's offering is a promise to give guests more of what they value: More freedom and space onboard – Whether it's starting the day with a spa treatment, enjoying open-air dining, or racing go-karts on deck, guests can shape their own pace. More dining and entertainment options – With no fixed schedules, passengers can enjoy modern global cuisine, live music, and some of the best entertainment at sea, all on their own terms. More time in port – Longer stops mean deeper cultural experiences and time to truly connect with each destination. More value – With the new More At Sea™ upgrade, travelers can enjoy perks like specialty dining, unlimited open bar, Starlink-powered high-speed Wi-Fi, and more — all included. With its unique approach, NCL is making European travel not just easier, but more meaningful — inviting GCC travelers to explore at their own pace, on their own terms.
Daily Tribune
2 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain Begins New Social Insurance Protection for GCC Citizens Working Abroad
The General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) has announced the start of applying Article 12 of the Unified System for extending social insurance protection to citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries working outside their home countries, in any other GCC member state. This move comes in line with Law No. 68 of 2006 and follows decisions made at the 23rd meeting of heads of civil retirement and social insurance authorities in the GCC countries. GOSI emphasized that this step reflects its commitment to activating shared Gulf regulations and ensuring continuous insurance coverage for GCC citizens. The aim is to protect their insurance rights and create a stable working environment. The organization also urged employers to review their insurance situations, confirm that all due contributions are paid on time, and avoid delays. Private sector employers who delay paying insurance contributions for GCC nationals working in Bahrain will face additional charges. To help explain the details of Article 12 and answer related questions, GOSI will organize an online workshop soon. The workshop link will be shared via email and GOSI's official social media pages. GOSI reaffirmed its dedication to working closely with all private sector entities to support them in fulfilling insurance obligations, benefiting both employers and insured individuals alike.
