The United Arab Emirates has strongly backed the International Maritime Organisation’s initiative for a safe shipping corridor in the Gulf, crucial for global trade and stranded seafarers. Following an emergency IMO Council session, the UAE condemned Iranian threats, emphasizing the risks to maritime safety and urging protection for the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices rose over 1% on Tuesday, driven by escalating Iranian attacks on the UAE, sparking fears of global supply disruptions amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. Brent crude futures climbed to $101.53 a barrel, while U.S. WTI reached $94.71, reflecting rising tensions and limited supply.
On March 15, the Indian-flagged vessel ‘Jag Laadki’ departed from Fujairah port, carrying 80,800 metric tonnes of Murban crude oil to India. The Ministry of Shipping confirmed the safety of the vessel and its Indian crew. Additionally, two LPG carriers are en route, with ongoing monitoring of Indian seafarers in the region.
The Indonesian foreign ministry has reported that three crew members are missing after the UAE-flagged tugboat Musaffah 2 sank in the Strait of Hormuz on March 6. This incident follows a series of attacks on vessels in the region amid escalating tensions related to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
A high-level delegation from the UAE National Guard is visiting India to strengthen maritime security cooperation. Led by Brigadier Khalid Obaid Thani Al Shamsi, discussions with the Indian Coast Guard focus on training collaboration and operational enhancements in maritime safety, coastal security, and pollution response, emphasizing their strategic partnership.
India has secured a $3 billion deal to purchase liquefied natural gas from the UAE, making it the UAE’s top customer. This agreement, established during a meeting between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to bolster trade and defense relations.
The Fijian Government has established a pivotal partnership with the UAE by signing a Memorandum of Understanding on January 14, 2026, for the mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates. This agreement will enhance employment opportunities for Fijian seafarers on UAE-flagged vessels, aligning their qualifications with international maritime standards.
Somalia’s government announced the annulment of all agreements with the UAE, including port and security deals, citing threats to its sovereignty. The decision follows credible reports of hostile actions and an investigation into the UAE’s alleged facilitation of a separatist leader’s escape, deemed a serious violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Saudi Arabia has launched limited airstrikes on Mukalla’s port in Yemen, alleging unauthorized military equipment shipments by the UAE. This escalation highlights the rivalry between the nations, each supporting different factions in Yemen’s conflict. The UAE denies wrongdoing, emphasizing a focus on counterterrorism amid rising tensions.
The UAE is solidifying its maritime influence through initiatives within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), securing a seat on the IMO Council for five consecutive terms. This achievement reflects global trust in its leadership, enhancing its role as a maritime hub and promoting sustainable development and cooperation among nations.
The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has partnered with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to enhance maritime operations. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to integrate space technology with maritime monitoring, improving traffic management and safety in UAE waters, especially during GITEX GLOBAL 2025.
In a significant step towards enhanced maritime cooperation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and UAE National Guard Command have signed a Memorandum of Understanding during the 13th Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in New Delhi. This agreement focuses on Maritime Security and Safety, aiming to strengthen ties and collaborative efforts.
On July 7, the UAE successfully rescued 22 individuals from the British-flagged vessel Magic Seas, attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Amid challenging conditions, the UAE’s Safa Breeze responded to the distress call, ensuring all crew and security staff were safely evacuated in coordination with international maritime organizations.
Two tankers, Front Eagle and Adalynn, collided off Khor Fakkan, UAE, around 2120 GMT on Monday. Initial reports indicate a fire, with NASA satellite data detecting a heat source. All 24 crew members from Adalynn were rescued, while investigations into the cause and navigational integrity continue.
Noatum Maritime, a UAE-based maritime services provider, has acquired the region’s first all-electric hydrofoiling pilot boat and invested in two electric tug boats. These vessels aim to decarbonize operations and contribute to sustainability goals. The Artemis EF-12 pilot boat and Damen RSD-E tugs 2513 enhance energy efficiency and offer zero-emission solutions for port operations.
