Dubai strengthens position as maritime powerhouse

Dubai Media Office

Dubai has solidified its position as a global maritime leader, ranking fifth worldwide in the 2024 International Shipping Centre Development Index.

This marks the fifth consecutive year Dubai has achieved this ranking, making it the only Arab city in the top 20. Singapore, London, Shanghai, and Hong Kong took the top four spots.

The latest report from the Baltic Exchange and Xinhua News Agency highlights Dubai’s continued rise as a key maritime hub.

It notes the emirate's efforts to enhance transparency in local container fees through the Dubai Maritime Authority’s new directive, which requires service providers to list fees on the unified Dubai Trade portal.

Dubai's status was further bolstered by its hosting of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in 2023, where major maritime companies unveiled innovative partnerships and decarbonisation efforts.

Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, emphasised Dubai’s commitment to advancing the maritime sector in alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. He highlighted that being the only Arab city among the top 20 underscores Dubai’s growing prominence as a global maritime capital.

Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority, reaffirmed the sector’s crucial role in Dubai's economy and its ongoing focus on innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure development.

The Baltic Exchange’s report praises Dubai for its leadership in environmental sustainability and its comprehensive approach to maritime dominance.

It commends the emirate's integration of maritime, land, and air shipping capabilities, which has driven its success in the global logistics scene.

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