Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, the education arm of Abu Dhabi Ports, welcomed over 250 Emiratis to a Maritime Industry Open Day in collaboration with the Human Resources Authority with the goal of selecting outstanding Emirati talent aiming to kick-start their career in the industry.
The Academy outlined and showcased the range of maritime programmes on offer to Emirati students and the opportunities for Emirati career development in the UAE’s maritime sector; providing students with the opportunity to learn about the realities of working in the maritime profession first-hand. This was followed by a tour of the Maritime Academy and a panel discussion with representatives from Safeen, the Middle East’s leading integrated marine services provider, Abu Dhabi Ports’ Harbour Master, and the Human Capital & Emiratization department.
Captain Maktoum Al Houqani, Managing Director, Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, stated: “We are thrilled at the enthusiastic response from Emirati youth at our Maritime Academy Open Day. The global maritime industry accounts for over 90 percent of global trade, and is a foundation of UAE’s economic development. Careers in this sector provide young people with the opportunity to develop a strong understanding of global trade, develop real-life problem-solving skills and gain invaluable experience through working with international partners.”
“We have seen incredible enthusiasm from an outstanding pool of Emirati students who are passionate about gaining the skills needed to be at the forefront of the industry. Knowledge sharing and educational development is an integral pillar of Abu Dhabi Ports’ commitment to contribute to building a knowledge-based economy in line with the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.”
The Academy is equipped with the latest simulator units, providing a realistic environment for trainees to gain the experience and knowledge they need for real-world assignments. All courses are approved by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), the UAE Federal Transport Authority (FTA), the International Association Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), and Lloyd’s Register.
The Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy is the first centre approved by the IALA to conduct Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), and Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Courses in the region. The Academy delivers International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Model Courses, all of which meet the requirements of the latest edition of Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for seafarers.
