Dubai has been recognized as one of the world’s foremost maritime hubs, ranking fifth globally and first among Arab nations in the 2025 International Shipping Centre Development Index. The annual report, issued by Xinhua News Agency in collaboration with the Baltic Exchange, describes Dubai as “the crown jewel of the Middle East’s maritime sector,” underscoring the emirate’s expanding influence in global shipping and logistics.

Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Maritime Authority, a division of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, attributed the ranking to a coordinated effort between government leadership and maritime industry stakeholders. “Dubai’s position reflects the vision of our leadership, as well as the effective coordination between strategic partners and maritime sector companies in the emirate,” Sheikh Saeed said. He emphasized continued commitments to service development, regulatory updates, and innovation aimed at sustaining Dubai’s growth as a global centre for shipping and logistics.

The report highlights Dubai’s comprehensive maritime infrastructure and services, which include navigation assistance, shipbuilding and repair capabilities, and expanding port capacity. It also cited the Dubai Maritime Transport Plan 2030, aligned with the broader Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to increase maritime transport utilization and develop Dubai Maritime City as part of the emirate’s economic diversification efforts.

Particular attention was given to Jebel Ali Port, described as a strategic regional hub benefiting from ongoing investments in infrastructure and operational capacity. According to the report, the port handled 15.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2024 - the highest annual volume since 2015 - and accounted for 18 percent of the 88.3 million TEUs managed by DP World, the port’s operator.

Sustainability initiatives at Jebel Ali Port were also noted, including the introduction of biofuel supplies for ships, installation of 50,000 square meters of solar panels to generate renewable energy, and deployment of electric vehicles for container handling. These measures contribute to an annual reduction of approximately 2,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

Captain Ibrahim Al Blooshi, Executive Director of Dubai Ports Authority, expressed pride in the ranking. “This achievement underscores Dubai’s strong position as a global maritime hub,” he said. Captain Al Blooshi noted that Jebel Ali Port, along with Port Rashid and Hamriyah Port - also operated by DP World under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation - continue to support the emirate’s economic goals despite global market uncertainties. He reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational safety within the maritime sector.

The recognition in the 2025 Shipping Centre Development Index positions Dubai alongside established maritime centres worldwide, reinforcing its role as a critical node in international trade and shipping.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office 

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.