Abu Dhabi Ports is celebrating its first all-Emirati port team.
The crew consists entirely of UAE nationals, all of whom are trained to carry out the full cycle of port operations.
The UAE terminal operator says that the news is in keeping with its strategy to increase the number of UAE nationals in its workforce.
“This marks a major breakthrough and confirms our role in supporting young Emirati talent, while putting the directives of our leadership into action,” commented HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of State and chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports.
“Our role is driven by a sense of patriotism that supports our commitment to training and development, making sure that – as the maritime industry grows – the Emirates’ development into a major international maritime hub is motivated by talented, skilled UAE nationals in meaningful maritime careers,” he added.
This is the first time in the UAE’s history that a team of local nationals has been able to carry out the full cycle of port operations, according to Abu Dhabi Ports. The Emirati crew will perform the full range of marine services, as well as the loading and unloading of cargo vessels.
“We are very proud of our first entire Emirati port operations team, and to be part of such a historic moment,” said captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports.
“The success of our Emiratisation strategy is directly linked to the range of different training programmes that we offer. These range from specialised operational training or developing back office administration skills, to identifying potential future leaders and giving them the training and support to realise their career potential,” he explained.
Abu Dhabi Ports has launched a major drive to recruit UAE nationals to operational roles. The campaign, named Port’s Pulse, has focused on raising awareness about the importance of the maritime economy and the strategic role played by the Emirates’ ports.
