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Mid East Info
3 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
PCFC, DP WORLD, and SHARJAH Maritime Academy Launch 'SANAD' Programme to Develop Emirati Maritime Security Talent
New 14-month training programme merges academic excellence with hands-on experience to strengthen the UAE's vital maritime security sector The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) and DP World have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA) to launch 'Sanad', a new training programme aimed at developing young Emirati maritime security professionals. Delivered over 12-14 months, the programme will equip Emirati professionals with advanced skills in security strategy and risk management, with a focus on ports and maritime transport through a comprehensive blend of academic study and hands-on experience. Under the three-year agreement, the partners will also collaborate on maritime education, research, and training initiatives that respond to market demands and align with the UAE's national priorities. Maritime security is a key focus, given its vital role in protecting the country's economic and strategic interests — from safeguarding critical infrastructure and trade routes to ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods through the UAE's ports. H.E. Nasser Abdulla Al Neyadi, CEO of PCFC and Group Chief Security Officer at DP World, said: 'This cooperation reflects our commitment to empowering national talent and enhancing security capabilities in key economic sectors. It aligns with Dubai's strategic goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), reinforcing its position as a global centre for trade and logistics through sustainable growth and competitive advantage'. PCFC and DP World will be responsible for identifying training needs and nominating participants, while Sharjah Maritime Academy will deliver the programme, provide expert instructors, and award accredited certifications. Dr. Hashim Al Zaabi , Director of the Sharjah Maritime Academy, said: 'This agreement represents a model of academic and strategic integration, supporting the UAE's vision to develop human capital and promote national leadership in maritime security and education. It is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the industry while strengthening the country's role on both regional and international levels'. The Academy's state-of-the-art laboratories, simulation rooms, and training facilities designed to prepare students for real-world maritime challenges, including diverse weather and security conditions. These are essential to equipping future professionals with skills aligned to national strategic objectives, Al Neyadi added.
Web Release
19-06-2025
- Business
- Web Release
GreatList and Dubai College of Tourism Announce Annual Scholarship for Aspiring Culinary Talents
International restaurant guide GreatList has entered into a long-term partnership with the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), a part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), to support the next generation of hospitality professionals. As part of this collaboration, the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship will be awarded annually to outstanding students pursuing careers in culinary arts and gastronomy. Open to current students completing their Certificate in Culinary Arts at DCT, and to future students enrolling in the course, the scholarship recognises academic merit, creativity, passion, and dedication to the culinary profession. The scholarship will award one outstanding DCT student with a full tuition scholarship to progress to the first year of the Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts, while a second promising student will receive a 50% tuition scholarship. All funding will be provided directly by GreatList, reflecting the organisation's long-term commitment to nurturing talent within the global gastronomy sector. This partnership with GreatList helps to prepare culinary arts students for real-life experience in the workplace, and provides them with the skills needed to thrive in one of the world's fastest-growing industries. 'This initiative reflects what we believe is the true mission of a modern restaurant guide,' says Alexander Sysoev, founder of GreatList. 'It's not just about recognising the best restaurants today — it's about investing in those who will define excellence tomorrow. Supporting young culinary talent today means creating 10, 20, even 30 extraordinary restaurants in the future.' 'This partnership with GreatList represents a significant advancement in our commitment to delivering world-class hospitality education,' says Elham Bolooki, Senior Experiential Learning Manager, Dubai College of Tourism (DCT). 'Supporting our mission to nurture and empower the next generation of hospitality professionals, this collaboration aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Through the GreatList by Alexander Sysoev Scholarship, we are not only recognising our students' academic excellence and passion, but also equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to excel in an increasingly competitive and innovative industry.' This strategic alliance between GreatList and DCT – a world-class vocational college that delivers full-time certificate and advanced diploma courses in tourism, hospitality, culinary arts, and events – underscores a shared vision to empowering young talent and elevating standards across the hospitality industry. For more information about GreatList and DCT, please visit: and
Tourism Breaking News
19-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Marriott International Enhance Collaboration with MoU to Strengthen Hospitality Ecosystem
Post Views: 32 Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Marriott International which aims to further boost the city's international visibility, diversify the destination offering, elevate guest experiences, and nurture next-generation industry talent. The MoU extends the long-standing collaborative efforts between DET and Marriott International, and marks another important step in advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai's position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. Signed by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, and Sandeep Walia, COO, Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International, the MoU reinforces their commitment to accelerate the growth of the city's tourism and hospitality sectors. The MoU sets the foundation for potential collaborations whereby Dubai will be prominently promoted to guests worldwide through Marriott International's portfolio of hotels. In addition, potential joint marketing initiatives including multi-channel advertising, high-impact social media campaigns, and influencer collaborations will spotlight Dubai's unique attractions, cultural heritage, and exceptional experiences, aiming to drive wider international awareness and visitor demand. His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, said: 'The growth and resilience of our tourism sector is driven by robust strategies and the collective commitment of forward-thinking partners such as Marriott International. The new MoU is inspired by visionary leadership to ensure Dubai remains at the forefront of global tourism and hospitality innovation. By leveraging the reach and expertise of one of the world's most prominent hotel groups, we are amplifying Dubai's global profile and delivering richer experiences to our visitors. As we pursue the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, such alliances embody the spirit of public-private collaboration that define Dubai's continued success in delivering unforgettable experiences to visitors from around the world.' Sandeep Walia, COO, Middle East & Luxury, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Marriott International, added: 'We are proud to have a portfolio of over 50 hotels in Dubai across all segments – select, premium and luxury, that align with the diversity of experiences the city offers for every type of traveller. DET continues to set an example of unity and cohesion between the public and private sector, and their collaboration has been an integral part of our long-standing legacy and success in this market. We remain committed to working with DET to deliver memorable moments to guests from across the globe and provide them with an opportunity to unlock and discover experiences in this beautiful destination.' Plans include the integration of Dubai's iconic landmarks, culinary scene, and immersive experiences into Marriott International's seasonal travel packages and within the group's loyalty programme offering. This initiative aims to provide guests with authentic, locally-curated experiences, deepening their connection with the city and supporting Dubai's position as a must-visit destination. The collaboration between DET and Marriott International highlights the strength of Dubai's public-private partnerships in driving sustained tourism sector growth, evidenced by a robust performance so far in 2025. Dubai welcomed 7.15 million international overnight visitors in the first four months of this year, up 7% on the same period last year. This follows a record 18.72 million visitors, who arrived in Dubai in 2024, a 9% YoY growth. To further elevate service standards, DET's Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) will deliver specialised training for hotel staff through its Dubai Way programme, featuring customised training modules focused on customer service excellence, cultural awareness, and guest relations, ensuring that hospitality professionals deliver world-class service tailored to diverse global visitors. The MoU reflects DET's ongoing efforts to establish meaningful partnerships, including the Hospitality Apprenticeship Programme for Emiratis launched by DCT and Marriott International in March 2025. Through this initiative, students receive exclusive internship and mentorship opportunities with industry leaders, further supporting Dubai's talent development agenda and specifically helping to build a broad pool of home-grown talent for the tourism workforce. With over 80 properties and 23,000 rooms across 23 renowned brands in the UAE – including 59 properties in Dubai alone – Marriott International continues to play a key role in shaping the city's hospitality landscape. DET's collaboration with Marriott International is part of its broader strategy to engage global industry leaders in shaping a future-ready tourism sector.
Tourism Breaking News
19-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Arabian Travel Market underscores the vital role of Asia Pacific in the future of tourism as international travel is set to reach US$2.5 trillion by 2029
Post Views: 28 According to a recent report compiled by Tourism Economics on behalf of ATM, tourism nights from Asia Pacific and Africa are on track to more than double between 2025 and 2030. The number of tourism nights, specifically from China to the Middle East, is expected to grow by 189% through 2030, and APAC source markets are set to account for the largest share of business nights in the region, with India, in particular, gaining importance. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: 'More than 60% of travellers are booking trips around concerts and sporting events, while over 40% are influenced by digital platforms such as TikTok. Interestingly, film and television are also playing a significant role, evidenced by a rise in bookings to Thailand following the popularity of The White Lotus.' The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is poised for significant tourism growth, with spending on international travel forecast to hit US$2.5 trillion and domestic travel to reach US$4.3 trillion by 2029, according to the latest data from Euromonitor International. Outbound travel from APAC is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7%, with intra-regional journeys expected to account for 61% of all trips by the end of 2025. By 2029, one in three trips is anticipated to be outside the APAC region, with 75% of bookings set to be made online. The Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, is key to ensuring the emirate's strategic success in APAC markets, with a focus on market segmentation and storytelling. By tailoring messaging for platforms such as the video-sharing website Bilibili and the social networking and e-commerce platform Red Note, and leveraging strong air links through carriers like Emirates and flydubai, Dubai's tourism authorities continue to position the city as a relevant, accessible, and aspirational destination for travellers across Asia. As a newcomer to APAC tourism markets, Saudi Arabia has adopted a highly localised approach, as outlined during the discussion. Recognising the diversity of the region, which comprises 49 distinct countries, tourism authorities in the Kingdom study each source market closely, from dietary preferences to cultural nuances, tailoring travel experiences accordingly. This strategy is supported by partnerships with media, trade, and research bodies to ensure that Saudi Arabia's offerings resonate authentically with travellers across the region. Curtis added: 'Technology is playing an increasingly pivotal role in travel decision-making across the APAC region, with consumers relying heavily on digital tools, social media, and AI. Mobile-first planning is transforming how travellers research and book trips, although the digital landscape varies significantly from country to country. One constant across the region is the importance of trust, particularly in peer-generated content, which continues to influence traveller choices at every stage of the journey.'
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
From ports to policies: How Dubai is rewiring the future of trade
In the rapidly transforming landscape of global trade and commerce, Dubai has positioned itself as a world-class logistics and supply chain hub. According to Abdulla Al Hashmi, CEO of Parks and Zones at DP World GCC, 'Dubai is the best place to launch and test a product. Its diverse base of over 200 nationalities provides a large, dynamic sample pool to test innovations, and its cutting-edge infrastructure allows businesses to scale globally.' Rishab Kapoor, Founder of Ray Holding, a comprehensive next-gen aviation company, echoes this, noting, 'Dubai's ecosystem offers more than just a strategic location. Its infrastructure, policy framework, and geopolitical positioning have made it a magnet for global enterprises. At the core of this ecosystem lies the triad of sea, air, and land infrastructure, connecting seamlessly to form the Dubai Logistics Corridor. Hashmi highlights this potential further: 'With Jebel Ali Port, Al Maktoum International Airport, and a growing network of roads, bonded customs corridors, and industrial zones, Dubai offers direct access to over 300 cities worldwide, 65% of global gross domestic product (GDP) and 3.5 billion consumers.' A world-class logistics hub Dubai's prowess is also backed by global metrics. According to the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ranks seventh globally with a score of 4.0, reaffirming its position as a world-class logistics hub—driven by Dubai's streamlined processes, high service quality, and efficient customs operations. Three core pillars are fuelling Dubai's rise as a global logistics hub: Live Events 1. Strategic location and world-class infrastructure: Dubai's position at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa gives it a location advantage. The Jebel Ali Port, one of the world's top 10 busiest ports, Al Maktoum International Airport, and Dubai South—a next-generation aerotropolis—provide seamless integration between sea, air, and land transport. Then there are special economic zones (SEZs) and Parks, which create opportunities for ancillary businesses (warehousing, fulfilment centres), marketplaces, and commercial activities. Talking about DP World, Hashmi states that between six special economic zones, including Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), National Industries Park, Dubai Auto Market, Maritime City, and others, substantial trading and manufacturing value addition takes place. This is reflected in the numbers: In 2019, Jebel Ali clients generated a trade value of $99 billion, which increased to USD 190 billion in 2024. DP World is now the world's largest vehicle handler and supports sectors, including commodities trading and industrial manufacturing. Global companies, such as Eaton (US), A-Heat (Germany), and Global Surfaces (India), have already established precision manufacturing facilities in Dubai's free zones. 2. Policy innovation and digital transformation: The Dubai Economic Agenda is at the centre of Dubai's non-oil diversification strategy and includes a strong focus on logistics, with the Land Transport Strategy aiming to double the sector's direct contribution to AED 16.8 billion by 2030. According to Hashmi, the initiative also includes an incentive package aimed at doubling the manufacturing value added and bilateral trade over the next 10 years. A major driver of this expansion will be technological adoption, with Kapoor and Hashmi identifying automation, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and green initiatives as game changers. Hashmi notes that 'DP World is no longer just a port operator, but a multi-modal infrastructure provider,' citing advances such as AI forecasting and blockchain-based contracts. Kapoor highlights DHL's Dubai South Innovation Centre, drone delivery trials, and real-time e-commerce tracking as evidence of digital tools reshaping regional logistics. Sustainability is another cornerstone of Dubai's transformation. As per Hashmi, JAFZA has the Middle East's largest solar rooftop programme. In addition, all power needs of DP World are met from the Al Maktoum solar park. Green warehouses, solar-powered logistics facilities, and blockchain use cases that reduce paperwork and waste are becoming the new normal. These innovations are likely to attract companies looking to align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals while optimising operations. ET Spotlight 3. Geopolitical heft and expanding trade agreements: Dubai's influence extends beyond its infrastructure, bolstered by the UAE's growing geopolitical clout through trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which spans Asia, Europe, and Africa. Hashmi notes, 'CEPA creates more affordable trade corridors by eliminating customs duties.' Jean Shahdadpuri, CEO of Nikai Group, highlights the impact of the UAE's first-ever CEPA with India, with a 15% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) and bilateral trade reaching $83.7 billion. Beyond trade deals, DP World's strategic acquisitions and partnerships—such as those in Turkey, India, the GCC, and Africa—are also creating new interdependencies and allowing companies to 'build in Dubai for the region.' Dubai South: A future-ready ecosystem According to Kapoor, 'Ray chose Dubai to be its central hub despite the varied choices, because Dubai's planned aerotropolis supercharges the company's plans. From the Al-Maktoum airport to Aviation and Logistics District, to commitments by major Aviation players for MRO and R&D services, the company can access all facilities for its luxury jets, specialised cargo operations and commercial airline. With its cargo-first design, scalable warehousing, and proximity to both sea and air gateways, Dubai South is expected to anchor the next phase of supply chain evolution in the region.' Opportunities for Indian businesses India stands to benefit significantly from Dubai's logistics boom. Saurabh Goyal, CEO of Xindus, a cross-border trade and commerce enabler, highlights a three-pronged strategy for Indian companies. With reduced tariffs and faster customs clearances, Dubai enables Indian companies to utilise it as a staging ground for reaching Africa and Europe. From pharmaceuticals to textiles, Indian goods can be shipped in bulk, stored in bonded warehouses, and redistributed as per demand. Additionally, Dubai's consumer base, combined with its role as the commercial capital of the GCC, presents a lucrative local market. With over 200 nationalities and high per capita spending, it is a testbed for consumer products, agri-tech solutions, and digital services. Hashmi highlights the government incentives and subsidies to attract Indian companies to free zones. According to him, 25% of companies in JAFZA are of Indian origin, and initiatives such as Bharat Mart are increasingly engaging in the UAE-India business and trade corridor. Bharat Mart is a first-of-its-kind wholesale and retail marketplace being developed within DP World's ecosystem. It will enable Indian businesses to leverage Dubai's world-class infrastructure to access free zones, the mainland, and regional markets through integrated storage, warehousing, transport, and customs facilitation. Expected to be operational by end-2026, Bharat Mart will offer end-to-end trade support, including distribution networks and streamlined export services for Indian companies. Another opportunity area for Indian companies is light assembly, precision manufacturing, and packaging within Dubai's free zones. Moreover, Dubai's strong financial sector can provide services such as supply chain financing, risk underwriting, and blockchain-enabled transparency. As the world grapples with supply chain disruptions, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainty, Dubai's bet on infrastructure, digital innovation, and openness seems to be paying off. With its stable governance, business-friendly policies, and tax incentives, its ports, airports and free zones are increasingly attracting commodity-specific marketplaces, agri-tech businesses, and precision manufacturing startups. This article is contributed by Shraddha Bhandari. Click this link for more on Business in Dubai. Disclaimer - This article is a part of a featured content series on Business in Dubai.
