DMCA Explores Latest Maritime Transportation Operating Practices in Malta

The Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) participated at the 38th edition of the Interferry Annual Conference held in the Republic of Malta and attended by the leaders of water transport and maritime, trade and tourism transport organizations from around the world. The participation is in line with DMCA’s efforts to establish Dubai as a world-class international maritime centre.

The event is of international importance as an interactive platform for sharing information, expertise and best practices. It also encourages strategic and industrial cooperation with leading parties involved in the general maritime transport sector.

Amer Ali, Executive Director of DMCA, said that the participation at the Interferry Conference 2013 complements the remarkable success achieved by the Authority during the last edition, which was held in Dubai and saw the participation of major international companies and organizations specialized in manufacturing and operating mass marine transport systems. He pointed out that the event proactively discusses best practices, systems, operational techniques and the latest innovations in the shipbuilding and maritime transportation industry. He also added that it is a valuable forum to share information with the Interferry international network, which includes about 600 of the largest companies and leaders from 38 countries.

Mr. Ali further commented that Dubai has made a quantum leap in terms of mass water transport systems, made possible by its sophisticated infrastructure and extensive government support for the transportation sector in keeping with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Mr. Ali explained that the number of general maritime transportation in the emirate accommodates about 15 million passengers annually.

“Our participation at the Interferry Conference 2013 is an important opportunity to learn about the latest regulations and practices being adopted to improve the quality of operation, maintenance and management within the world of ship and ferry building and discuss the regulations of environmental security, maritime safety and policies of marine traffic planning. There is no doubt that our presence at this high level international event favored our efforts to shed light on the process of transforming Dubai into one of the leading maritime and commercial centers in the world,” said Mr. Ali.

“The strategy of the maritime sector in Dubai focuses on integrating environmental security aspects, maritime safety, safe navigation, and operational efficiency. The strategy represents the essence of Interferry that operates according to clear bases designed to ensure the highest standards of sustainability, environmental security and safety of passengers and crews in commercial and cruise ships by applying fair regulations and legislation that are compatible with international resolutions in managing maritime operations,” concluded Mr. Ali.

Interferry, which was founded in 1976 in Canada, is the only shipping association representing the ferry industry worldwide. There are currently 225 members representing approximately 600 individuals from 38 countries – including four Arab countries, namely the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Oman. The main aim of the organization is to promote channels of sharing latest information and technical data, and best experiences and practices related to ferry industry and public water transport. It is also the ideal platform to discuss emerging challenges and operational solutions, review alternative energy sources for engines of marine tankers, and encourage industrial cooperation for advancing the maritime transport sector in line with sustainability requirements. A member of the International Maritime Organization, Interferry has succeeded in organizing 38 annual international conferences as of 2013.

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DMCA, November 11, 2013