As part of efforts to enhance the UAE maritime sector and promote collaboration and digital transformation, the Emirates Shipping Association, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), and Marihub signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Blue Pass initiative. The signing took place at the Emirates Shipping Association’s Maritime Future Dialogues on the last day of UAE Maritime Week with over 300 government and industry stakeholders in attendance.

The Blue Pass initiative, launched by the MOEI in collaboration with Marihub, seeks to foster the exchange of services, attract foreign investors, and streamline operations in the maritime industry. The initiative will enhance the competitiveness of the national maritime sector and promote the UAE’s position as one of the world’s leading maritime hubs. Through an advanced online portal and smart app, Blue Pass will offer transparent and seamless services, including supplies, support services, and discounts.

Abdulkareem Almessabi, Chairman of the Emirates Shipping Association commented:

By joining forces with the UAE Blue Pass, we are further demonstrating our commitment to enhancing the seamless maritime operations in the UAE. This collaboration will enable us to leverage advanced technologies and streamlined processes, ultimately benefiting our members and strengthening the overall maritime industry. We look forward to the opportunities and synergies that will emerge from this partnership.

The MOU signing highlighted a joint commitment to driving innovation and advancing the maritime industry, aiming to strengthen the capabilities of the Blue Pass initiative. The ultimate goal of this partnership is to position the UAE as an attractive destination for maritime-based investments.

H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport and Affairs at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized the broader vision behind Blue Pass. She stated:

The Blue Pass project aims to establish an integrated maritime business community, where everyone can easily provide services and fulfill their requirements through a unified digital portal. This facilitates collective purchasing power and discounts on various support services, reshaping the investment environment in the maritime sector in the UAE and the region.

In addition to facilitating maritime services and supplies, the initiative also meets the common needs of companies and ships operating in the sector. This collaborative approach fosters collective purchasing power and provides discounts on essential support services, such as financing, insurance, training, and port services. The Blue Pass initiative is expected to reshape the investment environment in the maritime sector in the UAE and the region, offering incentives that attract investors.

During the MoU signing ceremony, Anders Østergaard, Secretary General of the Emirates Shipping Association and Group CEO of Monjasa, emphasized the importance of partnerships and mechanisms that ensure an efficient process:

The Association’s vision is recognise the UAE as a port of registry. We’re exploring the partnerships and mechanisms to expedite this process, bringing together local and international players including MOEI, Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), classification societies, ports of different states, financial house and other relevant stakeholders, in order to bring the UAE flag to prominence. Our strategic alliances and members of the association are our strength and we would like to welcome you to become a part of this community.

Strategic alliances and association members play a vital role in their mission to strengthen the industry and welcome all stakeholders to be part of this dynamic community. Blue Pass will revolutionize the way maritime services are accessed and pave the way for a thriving and competitive maritime industry in the region.

For more information about Blue Pass click here.

For more information about Future Maritime Dialogues click here .