Dubai Maritime Agenda 2017 has begun preparations to host a line-up of international speakers exploring the future of the maritime sector, as the emirate strives in adherence with local and national efforts to prepare for a post-oil economy. Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, the strategic platform will gather an elite group of international maritime industry leaders, influential personalities, regional and international experts and decision-makers. Such luminaries will discuss rapidly evolving global developments and review Dubai’s achievements aimed at enhancing the role of its maritime sector as a vital pillar of national economic diversification, in line with Dubai Plan 2021.

 

Heavyweight lineup of maritime sector’s finest

 

Scheduled to take place on 10th October 2017 in Dubai, the event will bring together the most important figures in the marine industry to highlight the latest developments in technology and maritime innovation. The international speaker line-up will be led by Clive Aston, London Maritime Arbitration Association; Nijoe Joseph, Partner, Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP; Dipak Karki, Head of Financial Advisory & Capital at Galbraith's Limited; Sergey Popravko, CEO, SCF Management Services; and Mark Williams, Managing Partner, Affinity Research LLP.

 

The distinguished speakers will be joined by a group of high-profile personalities during the panel discussions – moderated by journalist and broadcaster Todd Benjamin. The group will include Kaity Arsoniadis-Stein, Executive Director of Vancouver International Maritime Centre; Mark Beer OBE, Co-Chief Executive and Registrar General of DIFC Courts; Arthur Bowring MH of Hong Kong Maritime Arbitration Group (HKMAG); Rene Kofod-Olsen, CEO of Topaz Energy and Marine; Oskar Levander, Vice-President of Innovation, Engineering & Technology (Marine) at Rolls-Royce Plc; Marcus Machin, CEO of Tufton Oceanic (Middle East) Ltd; Panos G. Moraitis, CEO of Aspida; Edward Newitt, who sits on the Executive Committee at Emirates Maritime Arbitration Centre (EMAC); Stephan Piworus, Senior Vice President of Identec Solutions; and Robert G. Shaw, President of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators.

 

A “unique strategic platform” for dialogue

 

Amer Ali, Executive Director of DMCA, emphasised that Dubai Maritime Agenda has become a unique strategic platform for encouraging constructive dialogue about the reality and future of the global maritime sector under the continued support and generous patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This will consolidate Dubai's position as a leading destination on the agenda of international maritime events.

 

“Dubai Maritime Agenda provides an ideal platform for highlighting Dubai’s position as a major player in the advancement of the local and global maritime industry based on the pillars of creativity, technological innovation, excellence, training and human investment,” said Mr Ali. “We look forward to hosting the first event of its kind in the Middle East, which will constitute a milestone in our efforts to explore the future of technology, legislation and training.”

 

“The second edition is drawing international attention with its focus on various key issues such as the exploration of the future of the maritime sector, with a particular emphasis on advanced technology and emerging innovations such as 3D printing, automated ships and smart transformation, among others, to further develop a sustainable and integrated maritime sector at both the regional and international levels,” he concluded.

 

Industry and technology outlook

 

Dubai Maritime Agenda 2017 will begin with panel discussions on ‘Global Outlook for Shipping’, ‘Safely Sailing the High Seas – Reducing the Legal Risks’ and ‘The Future of Shipping Technology.’ Among the topics to be discussed are 3D printing, energy and automated ships. Finance for shipping in the next decade and the role of shipping banks will also be discussed, in addition to Maritime Clustering (collaboration or competition), during which representatives of some of the world’s leading international maritime hubs will shed light on the opportunities and challenges related to the competitive and collaborative relationship among the global maritime capitals.

 

Dubai Maritime Agenda 2017 will highlight Dubai’s role as an influential power in shaping the future of the maritime industry both regionally and globally, as a leading hub for maritime innovation. The agenda of the next edition will highlight outstanding maritime achievements and major initiatives under the umbrella of the DMCA. It will also reflect DMCA’s efforts to make Dubai one of the world's top maritime hubs.

 

http://www.dubaimaritimeagenda.com