UAE Submits Bid to Retain Category 'B' Membership in International Maritime Organization

The UAE has submitted its bid for re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council's Category B membership, reinforcing its position as a global maritime power. The move comes as the country's maritime sector contributes over 135 billion dirhams to the national GDP and handles more than 21 million containers annually across its advanced port network.

The UAE first joined the IMO in 1980 and has since played an active role in shaping international maritime policies. The country now operates 27,000 maritime companies, while its national firms manage 106 ports across 78 countries. UAE ports handle roughly 60% of cargo operations in the Gulf region, making the country a critical hub for global trade and logistics.

Energy and Infrastructure Minister Suhail bin Mohammed Faraj Fares Al Mazrouei emphasized that the re-election bid reflects the leadership's vision to strengthen the country's presence in international organizations. "The UAE today represents a global maritime platform that combines economic growth with marine environment protection," he said.

The country has invested heavily in smart port infrastructure, with facilities like Jebel Ali Port, Khalifa Port, and Fujairah Port becoming testing grounds for digital transformation and artificial intelligence technologies. These ports serve as major centers for supply chains and maritime trade while implementing cutting-edge operational systems.

Environmental sustainability sits at the core of the UAE's maritime strategy. The country launched the Jaláfa Green Oasis project, the region's first offshore ship recycling facility using environmentally safe methods. The UAE has also implemented regulations for safe ship dismantling and low-sulfur fuel supply, adhering to MARPOL convention standards.

The maritime emissions reduction goals are integrated into the UAE Energy Strategy 2050 and the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, both aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This positions the country well to influence global maritime decarbonization efforts through the IMO.

Maritime safety remains a top priority, with the UAE establishing the National Maritime Navigation Center for round-the-clock ship monitoring. The country also launched the Unified National Maritime Window to streamline procedures digitally, reducing waiting times at ports and improving operational efficiency.

The UAE is a founding member of the Riyadh Memorandum of Understanding for ship inspection and control, and implements the unified system for port state control measures. The country adheres to SOLAS, STCW, OPRC, and other international agreements that enhance maritime security and safety.

Innovation drives the UAE's maritime sector development, with the country adopting autonomous ship technologies, digital certification systems, and blockchain solutions for port management. Artificial intelligence helps analyze maritime data, improve operational efficiency, and reduce emissions.

The UAE has made notable strategic proposals to the IMO, including expanding the organization's council membership from 40 to 52 members and adding Arabic as an official language. These initiatives aim to enhance cultural diversity and fair participation in international decision-making.

For investors and maritime companies, the UAE's IMO council membership signals continued regulatory alignment with international standards and sustained investment in maritime infrastructure. The country's integrated approach to maritime governance creates a reliable business environment that attracts global shipping and logistics operations.