The UAE has successfully concluded the World Maritime Day Parallel Event 2025, organized by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with broad international participation from maritime leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world.
The UAE delivered an exceptional edition of the event—both in terms of professional organization and the scale of global participation—cementing its position as a global platform for discussing the future of maritime governance, showcasing innovative solutions to achieve sustainability, and advancing the blue economy.
The closing ceremony drew the attendance of His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Lieutenant General Eng Kamel Al-Wazir, Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, His Excellency Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Shakhawat Hossain, Bangladesh’s Advisor for Shipping and Labour and Employment, His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of IMO, representatives of IMO member states, government officials, and maritime experts.
The closing ceremony featured a special tribute by His Excellency Al Mazrouei, who honored the strategic partners and event sponsors in recognition of their valuable contributions to the success of the event. His Excellency Al Mazrouei emphasized that this achievement would not have been possible without strong partnerships with national institutions and the private sector, which have reinforced the UAE’s image as a global hub for maritime innovation and sustainability.
His Excellency Al Mazrouei affirmed that the UAE is proud to have hosted this international event and noted that the exceptional success of the event reflects the international community’s confidence in the UAE’s capabilities and strengthens its pivotal role in shaping the future of global maritime transport, grounded in sustainability and innovation.
The Minister of Energy and Infrastructure said: “The theme of this year’s event, Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity, has not only guided our conversations but has also inspired action. We have explored urgent challenges—from climate change and marine pollution to digitalization and decarbonization—and we have also celebrated the immense potential that the maritime sector holds for sustainable development, innovation, and inclusive growth. As host nation, the UAE is deeply proud to have facilitated this important dialogue. But more than that, we are committed to translating words into action. We believe that leadership in the maritime domain must be defined not just by economic performance, but by environmental stewardship, technological innovation, and strong international cooperation.”
He added: “Our oceans do not divide us—they connect us. And as we depart from this event, let us carry forward a renewed sense of unity and purpose. Let us remember that our obligation to the ocean is not a choice—it is a responsibility. And within that responsibility lies a tremendous opportunity: to build a maritime future that is smarter, cleaner, safer, and more equitable for all. I thank the International Maritime Organization, our strategic partners, and all those who contributed to the success of this event. Your dedication has made this gathering truly impactful.”
His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez said: “I thank everyone for joining us and for spending the time attending the panels and visiting the exhibition, which showcased many areas where the UAE has demonstrated its commitment to the work of the IMO and the positive effects of the IMO regulations. I thank the UAE for organizing this event which reflects the importance of improving the work we do for ocean conservation.”
For his part, Victor Jimenez Fernandez, Chair of IMO Council, said: “Considering the theme of this year’s World Maritime Day Parallel Event ‘Our Ocean – Our Obligation – Our Opportunity’, my final message is don’t forget the safety aspects of the IMO regulations because safer ships play a key role in protecting the ocean. I congratulate the Government of the UAE for hosting a fantastic event.”
The ceremony also included the official handover of the IMO flag from the UAE to the Republic of Korea, marking the transition of the event’s hosting rights for the upcoming 2026 edition. Her Excellency Eng Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs at MoEI, personally handed the flag to the Korean delegation in a symbolic moment that reflected the UAE’s leadership and global standing in the maritime sector.
The World Maritime Day is a prestigious international platform that brings together leading maritime figures, government officials, and experts to discuss the most pressing challenges facing the maritime transport industry and to explore innovative solutions that promote the blue economy and ensure the safety and sustainability of global navigation.