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UAE Ranks Among Top 35 Countries with Largest Global Maritime Fleets


Abu Dhabi: The UAE has achieved a significant milestone by ranking among the top 35 countries globally with the largest shipping fleets by tonnage and capacity, as highlighted in the 2024 report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This accomplishment underscores the UAE’s growing influence and capabilities in the global maritime industry.



According to Emirates News Agency, the report also noted the inclusion of three other Arab countries on the list: Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. The Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) reported that a total of 10 Gulf container ports were recognized among the 70 most efficient ports worldwide in 2024, out of a total of 405 ports.



GCC-Stat further revealed that the Gulf commercial fleet represented 54.2 percent of the total Arab commercial fleet in 2023. The data indicated that most GCC countries exceeded the Arab average in the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index, with a score of 100.5 in 2023. The report also highlighted that the number of major Gulf seaports surpassed 25 in 2024.



In terms of container productivity, two Gulf ports were identified as high-production ports with output exceeding 4 million containers, while eight ports were classified as medium-production ports, with output ranging between 0.5 million and 4 million containers.



GCC-Stat emphasized the sustainable development of infrastructure across key ports and maritime stations, positioning them as leading global logistics hubs. The centre stressed that Gulf maritime navigation and ports are crucial strategic hubs for global shipping companies and logistics services.



The Unified Maritime Operations Centre stands out as a significant achievement resulting from close cooperation among GCC countries. It plays a vital role in safeguarding territorial waters and ensuring freedom of navigation, thereby enhancing security and stability in the GCC region.

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