Latest news with #UAEMaritimeWeek
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
06-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East Opens with Industry Call to Action to Keep Trade Moving - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai, UAE, May, 2025: The doors opened on the 11th Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East conference and exhibition today (6th May 2025) and was officially inaugurated by H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Senior Advisor, Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure; Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World GCC; Andrew Williams, President, Seatrade Maritime, part of Informa Markets, and senior representatives of the maritime community In a video address to a packed Main Stage, H.E Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy & Infrastructure, Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure said: 'We aim to position UAE Maritime Week among the world's top maritime events, with all stakeholders' engagement in shaping the future of this industry. The UAE continues to rise as a global logistic hub, guided by visionary leadership and bold strategies. 'In the UAE, we continue to improve the ports' handling capacity, which today handles over 21 million TEUs. The maritime sector contributes nearly 136 billion dirhams, or $37 billion to our GDP, with a target to increase it to 200 billion dirhams, or more than $54 billion in the near future.' Speaking to 2050 net-zero targets, His Excellency added: 'In our view, the world needs to be aligned when it comes to net-zero targets by 2050, and for us in the UAE, we will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to achieve the UAE Net-Zero target by 2050.' The strategic partner of Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, DP World GCC delivered a hard-hitting keynote to the room from Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director, DP World GCC, who said: 'Resilience, Partnership, Innovation and Sustainability define the future of maritime logistics and that's where the Gulf – and our region more broadly – has a real opportunity to lead. 'Let me start with resilience. More and more global operators are turning to the Gulf for stability. In a sector facing uncertainty, our region has proven to be an anchor point of stability, certainty and security. This is no accident. It's the result of years of coordinated investment in maritime infrastructure. The Middle East has multimodal marine networks that connect over 150 ports worldwide. From the $800 million expansion of the South Container Terminal in Jeddah to advanced automation at Jebel Ali, we are building smart, resilient maritime networks that can adapt to demand. 'The second priority is partnership. The Gemini Cooperation between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk is one example of how strategic partnerships can keep global trade moving. Together with our shipping line customers, we're coordinating vessel schedules, improving berth planning and enhancing operational efficiencies to ensure reliability. When shippers face instability, this kind of reliability is a necessity. And to scale this reliability, we need collaboration across the entire port network and the entire maritime value chain. 'The third need is innovation. Our industry has always been seen as slow and resistant to change – but I believe this stereotype is changing fast. In the past year, I have seen digitalisation and automation projects jump forward. From AI tools that help choose the best routes and save fuel, to digital twins and predictive analytics, innovation is front and centre. Today, platforms like CARGOES Flow have made our region a leader in anticipating disruption before it happens. This level of automation supports how our ports work together as part of a coordinated system. From gates to cranes to yard equipment, this technology is reducing human error, speeding up operations, and improving vessel call performance. Even upstream, we're seeing the positive impact this can have. 'Which brings me to my final point: sustainability. Maritime shipping accounts for nearly 3% of global emissions. And we can't stand still – even if the odds seem against us. Regulatory frameworks are already shaping how vessels operate and where they berth. We have no choice but to decarbonise – and fast. The good news is that the Gulf is ahead of the curve, because we're using maritime infrastructure to keep change within reach. Port equipment has been electrified across terminals. Investments are being made in shore power so all vessels can plug in at berth – reducing emissions, noise, and fuel burn. And with the UAE now home to the world's first carbon removal deal for a port operator, we're setting the bar for what comes next. He ended with a resounding call to action: 'The global trade landscape is changing. Today the waters are rough, and trade maps are being redrawn. But I am confident that we can navigate it successfully. Let's move together. Let's move smarter. And above all – let's keep trade moving.' The UAE Maritime Week is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure with Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East held as the focal exhibition and conference of the week-long activities. More than 7,000 maritime and shipping attendees will converge on Dubai during this period and a record 150+ speakers will share their knowledge at a packed – and free to attend – conference agenda at Dubai World Trade Centre from 6-8 May as part of Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East. About Seatrade Maritime: For more than 50 years, Seatrade Maritime has brought the international maritime industry together, building an extensive global community through its news website, themed reports, podcast, global events and marketing solutions. Seatrade Maritime global B2B events offer excellent opportunities to reach new markets quicker and more successfully than any other maritime trade show. Through our events, thousands of shipping professionals establish and grow their business, build networks and learn about the latest industry innovations.
Trade Arabia
04-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Seatrade event to spotlight key maritime issues
Maritime geopolitics, sustainability, trade disruption, tariffs and AI will all be under the spotlight during the coming UAE Maritime Week, which features the flagship conference and exhibition, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East, in Dubai. Several thousand international and regional shipping experts will take part in the week which is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure and organised by Seatrade Maritime and supported by strategic partner, DP World. In its 11th edition, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East takes place from May 6 to 8 in the Za'abeel Halls 5 & 6 at Dubai World Trade Centre. For the first time, the conference agenda features 3 stages and multiple conference sessions. Again, in a first for the event, it is working with 15 supporting organisations from the industry who are lending their industry expertise in the form of curated content. The 15 official Supporting Organisations include: Abu Dhabi Maritime Hub; Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA); Emirates Shipping Association (ESA); Emirates Maritime Legal Association (EMLA); International Bunkering Association (IBIA); ICS Middle East; IMarEST UAE; IMPA Save; The Ship Suppliers Association Dubai (ISSA); Mission to Seafarers; National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL); The Nautical Institute; UAE Blue Pass; UAE Harbour Masters Association; and WISTA UAE. Between them, they will be hosting a carefully curated mix of thought leadership conference sessions, panel discussions and in-depth technical workshops fronted by members and covering all aspects of maritime. This includes digitalisation, energy transition, sustainability, engine room operations, bunkering and alternative fuels, port safety, workforce diversity, ship finance and freight rates, innovation in trading and seafarer welfare. In other sessions, managed by the Seatrade Maritime content team, there will be a dedicated session from Shanghai International Shipping Center & North Bund Forum; several deep-dive focus forums from DP World and a return of the popular Big Debate. In this parliamentary style debate, industry specialists present their 'for' and 'against' arguments for the motion: 'This house believes that the integration of AI in the maritime industry poses a greater threat to safety and ethical standards than it offers in operational efficiency'. Some feisty exchanges in front of the audience are expected before attendees get their say and the final vote is announced at the end of the session. Taking the Main Stage on Day 2 is global maritime futurist, K D Adamson. Known as a sharp, funny and straight-talking renegade she is a writer, commentator, presenter, and top keynote speaker loved by audiences the world over who have compared her inspirational performances to both a TED talk on steroids, and a Tarantino movie where no one died! Other highlights include an Offshore Outlook Focus, the Vital Role of Digitalisation at Sea, the Significance of Seafarer Training for New Alternative Fuels and The Need for Industry-wide Training Overhaul. Also on Day 2 is a ceremony to celebrate the announcement of the Seatrade Maritime News 20under40 finalists. The culmination of an initiative to find global leaders of the future aged under 40, this campaign has garnered huge interest and several hundred entries for the judging panel to discuss. Day 3 brings the Nautical Institute's global conference and AGM to Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East for the first time, and dedicated sessions from Abu Dhabi Maritime Hub; DP World and DSAA (Dubai Ship Agents Association). Aside from the three content stages, a packed exhibition stretches across Za'abeel Halls 5 and 6 and include international exhibitors representing the complete maritime supply chain. According to Chris Morley, Group Director, Seatrade Maritime, part of Informa Markets: 'Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East has been a firm fixture on the maritime calendar over the past 20 years in the UAE and this year is once again the central maritime meeting place of UAE Maritime Week. Working closely with our patron, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and a very senior steering committee, we are confident that this edition will continue to amplify the UAE's place on the global maritime cluster map.' -
Trade Arabia
27-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Top industry associations back Seatrade Maritime expo
In an industry first for the region, Seatrade Maritime – organiser of Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East – has coordinated 15 industry associations to bring curated content to three stages of the 3-day conference and exhibition. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (MOEI) in strategic partnership with DP World and as part of UAE Maritime Week, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East will run from May 6 to 8. The 15 official supporting organisations are: Abu Dhabi Maritime Hub; Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA); Emirates Shipping Association (ESA); Emirates Maritime Legal Association (EMLA); International Bunkering Association (IBIA); ICS Middle East; IMarEST UAE; IMPA Save; The Ship Suppliers Association Dubai (ISSA); Mission to Seafarers; National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL); The Nautical Institute; UAE Blue Pass; UAE Harbour Masters Association; and WISTA UAE. Between them, they will be hosting a carefully curated mix of thought leadership conference sessions, panel discussions and in-depth technical workshops fronted by members and covering all aspects of maritime, said the organisers. This includes digitalisation, energy transition, sustainability, engine room operations, bunkering and alternative fuels, port safety, workforce diversity, ship finance and freight rates, innovation in trading and seafarer welfare, they stated. Emma Howell, Content Director at Seatrade Maritime, part of Informa Markets, said: "The maritime cluster in the UAE is a key driver of sustained economic growth in the GCC region and the leading trade associations have a vital role to play in its continued development." "We took the decision this year to give the region's top maritime trade associations greater input into developing our conference programme, and are thrilled with the response," he stated.
Zawya
25-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Incredible industry support for Seatrade Maritime Logistics ME 2025
Dubai: In an industry first for the region, Seatrade Maritime – organiser of Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East – has coordinated 15 industry associations to bring curated content to three stages of the 3-day conference and exhibition. Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure (MOEI) in strategic partnership with DP World and as part of UAE Maritime Week, Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 6-8th May. All conference content is free for attendees upon registration. The fifteen official Supporting Organisations include: Abu Dhabi Maritime Hub; Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA); Emirates Shipping Association (ESA); Emirates Maritime Legal Association (EMLA); International Bunkering Association (IBIA); ICS Middle East; IMarEST UAE; IMPA Save; The Ship Suppliers Association Dubai (ISSA); Mission to Seafarers; National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL); The Nautical Institute; UAE Blue Pass; UAE Harbour Masters Association; and WISTA UAE. Between them, they will be hosting a carefully curated mix of thought leadership conference sessions, panel discussions and in-depth technical workshops fronted by members and covering all aspects of maritime. This includes digitalisation, energy transition, sustainability, engine room operations, bunkering and alternative fuels, port safety, workforce diversity, ship finance and freight rates, innovation in trading and seafarer welfare. Emma Howell, Content Director at Seatrade Maritime, part of Informa Markets said: 'The maritime cluster in the UAE is a key driver of sustained economic growth in the GCC region and the leading trade associations have a vital role to play in its continued development. 'We took the decision this year to give the region's top maritime trade associations greater input into developing our conference programme, and are thrilled with the response. This approach has enabled us to offer a unique snapshot of the whole industry in one place and collectively discuss the most pressing issues in an open forum.' All attendees must pre-register to attend the venue and conference sessions via the Seatrade Maritime Logistics Middle East show website. About Seatrade Maritime For more than 50 years, Seatrade Maritime has brought the international maritime industry together, building an extensive global community through its news website, themed reports, podcast, global events and marketing solutions. Seatrade Maritime global B2B events offer excellent opportunities to reach new markets quicker and more successfully than any other maritime trade show. Through our events, thousands of shipping professionals establish and grow their business, build networks and learn about the latest industry innovations.
