DUBAI: The maritime sector significantly improved its contributions to Dubai’s GDP in 2015, accounting for Dh26.9 billion ($7.32 billion) or seven per cent of the total, according to latest figures. Shipping had the largest share, followed by ports, maritime engineering, and maritime support services. The latest numbers reflect the increasing contribution of the maritime sector to the local economy which grew at an unprecedented rate of 25 per cent between 2011 and 2015.
Sultan Bin Sulayem, chairman of Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation and president of the Dubai Maritime City Authority, said: “Under the guidance of our wise leadership and the tireless efforts of Dubai Maritime City Authority, the local maritime sector has made valuable contributions towards enhancing the gross domestic product of the Emirate of Dubai. The maritime industry was among the five major sectors that positively impacted the economic growth of the emirate in 2015.”
“The maritime authority continues to develop and implement strategic initiatives centered on nurturing a maritime environment that attracts leaders of maritime industries all over the world. It also provides all the necessary legislative and infrastructure to enhance the components of the maritime cluster, especially shipping, ports, maritime engineering, training and maritime support services. These components collectively form a strong foundation for maximizing the contributions of the maritime sector to the local economy,” he added. The Dubai Maritime Cluster Office will present the full details of Dubai maritime sector economic performance at the upcoming Dubai Maritime Summit taking place in Dubai, UAE on November 2.
