The UAE Government has launched new maritime cluster as it seeks to double the AED91bn ($24.77bn) sector in a few years.
The UAE Maritime Cluster is being launched by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure as an umbrella covering local and federal government and private organisations in the sector.
The announcement of the new cluster was timed to coincide with World Maritime Day on 30 September and it aims to promote the UAE maritime sector globally and support the role of building alternative parts of the economy to the oil sector.
H.E. Eng. Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure in theUAE, said: “Building on the model of the UAE Union, we will unify the UAE maritime sector by launching the UAE Maritime Cluster, which will be a platform that integrates the capabilities of the various entities and organisations, whether federal, local or from the private sector. The Cluster will enhance their performance by bringing together the competencies and experiences of professionals and experts working in the UAE’s maritime sector, many of whom are world-class experts.”
The Minister said the cluster was one of the key projects in preparing the UAE for the next 50 years and ensuring its growth, which is expected to be significant.
“Currently, the sector is estimated at around AED 91 billion annually. We look forward to doubling this figure within a few years by building bridges to integrate the various organisations and stakeholders involved,” Al Mazrouei said.
The cluster will include a central think tank explore investment opportunities and innovative maritime projects as a result of unifying the efforts and ideas of maritime organisations in the UAE. The cluster will also include and incubator to support start-ups and young entrepreneurs, as well as a platform for research & development.
The cluster is seen as key step the UAE’s preparations for candidacy for its Category-B membership at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the third time.
H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said: “The UAE is home to the regional headquarters of many international maritime companies and organisations. These are influential bodies and their voices are heard across the sector.
“It would be very useful to have an overall comprehensive national platform that brings together all the influential players in the maritime sector. It will also enhance our maritime capabilities and influence in developing the industry globally, which will greatly support our candidacy.”
The new maritime cluster aims advance the sector in the UAE and formulate maritime strategy for the next 50 years.
Source: Seatrade Maritime News
