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.
India and UAE have entered a transformative phase in bilateral relations, signing eight strategic agreements to foster a sustainable, innovation-driven future. This milestone, marked by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed’s visit, emphasizes collaboration in green logistics, healthcare, and education, paving the way for a climate-resilient, tech-integrated trade ecosystem.
Damen Shipyards Group and SAFEEN Group made history by setting a Guinness World Record for the Most Powerful Electric Tugboat with the Damen RSD-E Tug 2513 Bu Tinah. This revolutionary vessel operates in the Middle East, showcasing its impressive performance and sustainability. It marks a significant step towards a more environmentally friendly maritime industry.
Mercantile & Maritime Group is expanding its MENA Terminals in Fujairah, UAE, to create the Middle East’s largest biofuel processing plant valued at AED 2.2 billion. This project aligns with the UAE’s goal of leading in green energy initiatives, producing 150 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel annually by 2026.
Damen Shipyards Group is constructing three shallow draft multipurpose support vessels in the UAE to meet the growing demand for offshore and dredging activities. These proven Damen models are well-suited for the region’s shallow waters. Equipped for various tasks, including dredging and installation, the vessels offer customization options for customers.
The United Arab Emirates has prohibited ships flying the flag of landlocked Eswatini from entering its ports. The move is a response to vessels involved in transporting Russian oil, with Cameroon’s flag also on the restricted list. Safety concerns have emerged regarding lesser-known flags post-Ukraine invasion. Eswatini’s ship count is minimal.
