The first day of the 2nd Annual Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference, hosted by the Transport General Authority at the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, saw the signing of 10 strategic agreements between government bodies and private-sector partners. These agreements aim to develop the maritime transport sector and enhance sustainability.
The Transport General Authority signed a key agreement with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development to regulate and supervise the Maritime Labor Contract Regulation, ensuring workers’ rights and improving the attractiveness of maritime professions. Another agreement was signed with the Ministry of Health on medical examinations for seafarers, while a partnership with the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) focused on regulating freight mediation to boost efficiency, competitiveness, and alignment with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
Research, Innovation, Sustainability
To advance innovation and environmental responsibility, the Authority entered an agreement with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to reduce carbon emissions and support research projects. Additional agreements included:
- With the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) to promote safe, sustainable transport of petrochemicals and chemicals.
- With the National Center for Waste Management (MWAN) to enhance sustainable marine waste practices.
- With the National Center of Wildlife (NCW) and Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC) to support environmental initiatives.
Maritime Education, Training
The National Maritime Academy signed two agreements—one with the Faculty of Maritime Studies at King Abdulaziz University, and another with the Asim Association for Orphan Training and Empowerment. Additionally, Mediterranean Shipping Company Saudi Arabia partnered with the Applied College at the University of Jeddah to support maritime training and workforce development.
International Ministerial Dialogue
The opening ministerial session featured prominent leaders, including:
- Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser
- Bahraini Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
- Liberian Minister of Transport Sirleaf Ralph Tyler
- Cypriot Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis
- Dominica Minister of Tourism Denise Charles-Pemberton
The discussion highlighted sustainable practices in ports and fleet management, the role of digital transformation, and the importance of regional and international cooperation in reducing emissions, improving safety, and developing human capital.
Conference Sessions
The program featured several thematic sessions:
- Leadership Perspectives on a Sustainable Maritime Industry – addressing global sustainability trends, innovation, and international cooperation.
- Energy Efficiency in Shipping: Pathways to Reducing Emissions – focusing on port efficiency, renewable energy transitions, and advanced technologies.
- Marine Insurance and Financing – exploring innovative financial tools to support the maritime sector.
- Financial and Technological Solutions for Energy Efficiency – highlighting how innovation drives sustainable energy use.
Three workshops provided hands-on insights into critical maritime issues:
- Implementing Decarbonization Strategies in Shipping Operations
- Developing a Roadmap for the Sustainability of Small and Medium-Sized Maritime Enterprises
- Underwater Noise Reduction: a Co-Benefit for Climate and Biodiversity Shipping Goals
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