London, UK: The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI) has announced the establishment of the “UAE Maritime Decarbonization Center” in collaboration with DNV at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) headquarters in London, UK. It’s the first in the MENA region and the fourth globally.
Ms. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and Mr. Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, have signed the MoU in respect of the auspices of establishing a Maritime Decarbonization Center in the UAE.
Government officials, industry leaders, and international stakeholders were present at the signing ceremony. The Center intends to promote research, innovation, and collaboration among key stakeholders to boost sustainable practices, technologies, and policies in the maritime sector.
Mr. Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that, “The UAE leads numerous global competitiveness indicators in the maritime sector. It ranks 3rd globally in the Bunker Supply Index, 5th as a key competitive maritime hub and 12th in the transport lines index. This is a result of the competitive business environment the UAE provides, which attracts major international maritime companies and makes the country’s ports a preferred destination for international shipping lines. However, we will not rest on our laurels; we want to occupy the top position in all international maritime indicators. We look forward to innovations and digital platforms to contribute to enhancing the UAE’s position and improving its global ranking.”
The center will serve as a hub for research, development, and implementation of innovative technologies and strategies to reduce CO2 emissions in the maritime industry. It will organize joint industry projects, incubator and accelerator programs, and future talent development initiatives. Furthermore, it will provide access to funding opportunities, foster collaboration among industry stakeholders, and serve as a knowledge hub by publishing research and information.
“We are very pleased to collaborate with the UAE’s Ministry of Infrastructure & Energy to establish the Maritime Decarbonization Center. Initiatives like the Center are essential as we look to accelerate towards a decarbonized future. We need to build via cooperation, foster innovation, and scale local strengths into global leadership. With its strategic location and strong support from industry leaders, the Center is poised to become a hub for maritime decarbonization efforts,” remarked Mr. Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen.