Latest news with #InternationalDayoftheSeafarer
Observer
02-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman celebrates International Seafarers
MUSCAT, JULY 2 The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) celebrated the International Day of the Seafarer here on July 2, 2025, under the auspices of Dr Said bin Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy. In his keynote address, Capt Mazin bin Hamad al Rashidi, Director of Maritime Transport at the Ministry, underscored the significant role seafarers play in the global economy. 'Our celebration of the International Day of the Seafarer is a reminder of their central and indispensable role in the international economic system, despite the significant challenges and sacrifices they endure to ensure the steady flow of goods and maintain the continuity of the global economy. We reaffirm our deep appreciation for the pivotal role our esteemed seafarers play in sustaining supply chains and global trade, and for their essential contributions to maritime safety and security—benefiting all nations and strengthening the global economy,' he stated. According to the Director, the maritime sector has witnessed notable progress over the past year. 'The Ministry has worked on developing the Maritime Law by adding modern investment-related provisions in alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and in harmony with international maritime conventions, with the aim of keeping pace with global maritime transport developments and enhancing the business environment in the Sultanate,' he said. The official added that Ministry has also accomplished significant strides in digital transformation. 'In the realm of digital transformation, the Ministry has provided over 95% of seafarer services electronically, enabling seafarers and relevant entities to complete transactions and verify certificates and competencies efficiently and with high quality.' The Ministry has also signed various international agreements, 'On the international cooperation front, the Ministry signed 9 agreements and memoranda of cooperation in the field of maritime transport, along with 16 memoranda of understanding for the mutual recognition of seafarer certificates, and 10 agreements with international classification societies, all of which enhance Oman's competitiveness and credibility within the international maritime community,' he said. In terms of regulatory operations, the Ministry inspected 74 foreign ships at Omani ports, in addition to issuing over 100 navigation permits for vessels operating within the Sultanate's waters during the first quarter of 2025. Moreover, the Ministry delivered 9,950 maritime services through its ship registration departments across various regions, alongside issuing 315 maritime activity permits and 188 sailing certificates. The Ministry also launched the Seafarer Complaints Service, which aims to protect the rights of seafarers and ensure secure and fair working conditions. The one-day event included various panel discussion and working papers, in addition to a parallel exhibition and a maritime life and activities photography competition.
Muscat Daily
02-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Seafarers' Day marked with focus on maritime growth and reforms
Muscat – Oman observed International Day of the Seafarer with a ceremony on Wednesday recognising the vital role of maritime professionals and reaffirming the sultanate's commitment to expanding its shipping and logistics capabilities. Held under the patronage of H E Dr Said bin Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy, the event was organised by Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT). Speaking at the ceremony, H E Khamis bin Mohammed al Shamakhi, Undersecretary for Transport, said Oman's ports continue to serve as strategic trade gateways along the nation's coastline. 'Our logistics infrastructure remains resilient despite regional challenges.' H E Shamakhi added that over 1,000 Omani seafarers are currently employed across national ferries, commercial ships and fishing vessels, with many in leadership roles. The logistics sector contributes more than 6% of Oman's GDP, driven largely by maritime operations. Mazen bin Hamad al Rashidi, Director of Maritime Transport at MTCIT, said the ministry has recently introduced a series of reforms including updates to the Maritime Law, which now features investor-friendly provisions aligned with Oman Vision 2040. These reforms are compliant with international maritime conventions. Oman has signed 16 mutual recognition agreements for seafarer certificates and ten cooperation agreements with international classification societies. It has also joined the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities further cementing its global maritime ties. According to Rashidi, over 95% of seafarer-related services are now offered digitally, allowing faster certification processes and improved verification. MTCIT issued 188 seafarer certificates, 315 maritime activity licences and processed 950 services through ship registration offices in Q1 2025. As part of inspection and compliance efforts, 74 foreign ships were checked at Omani ports during the same period. The ministry also issued more than 100 navigation permits for vessels operating in domestic waters. To protect workers' rights, a new grievance mechanism has been introduced for seafarers. In a regional first, Oman has launched a bunkering service using ma- ss flow meters to improve transparency in marine fuel supply. The celebration highlighted Oman's broader strategy to develop local talent, attract international investment, and position the sultanate as a competitive hub in maritime trade and logistics.
