Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, the region’s leading academic institution for mariners and an integral part of AD Ports Group, has successfully concluded the Quantum Maritime Conference 2025, the world’s first international forum dedicated to connecting quantum technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and maritime innovation. Hosted at the Academy’s state-of-the-art campus in Abu Dhabi, from 8th to 9th October 2025, the event established a new global framework for collaboration, applied research, and education to advance the maritime sector.
According to Emirates News Agency, the conference gathered more than 40 speakers and delegations from over 30 nations, including government officials, industry leaders, distinguished scientists and researchers to explore how emerging technologies can redefine maritime operations, enhance trade efficiency, and drive sustainability. The event was held under the sponsorship of AD Ports Group, hosted by Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and organised by Vernewell Group.
Among the keynote speakers was Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government, who addressed quantum resilience and national digital sovereignty, underscoring the UAE’s leadership in building secure and sustainable digital infrastructure. Nobel Laureate, Professor Sir Kostya Novoselov, also delivered an inspiring speech.
Dr. Yasser Al Wahedi, President of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and Malak Trabelsi Loeb, Chief Executive Officer of Vernewell Group, both emphasised the UAE’s role in transforming scientific discoveries into practical applications that serve industrial, commercial and maritime sectors. Dr. Al Wahedi highlighted the Blue Initiative, launched during the conference, which aims to support research and partnerships that enhance the maritime sector with smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions.
Malak Trabelsi Loeb noted that the conference marked the beginning of a new phase in maritime transformation, with leaders, researchers, and innovators working toward translating advanced science into real applications that strengthen trade, sustainability, and resilience. The outcomes of the conference have created a foundation for continuous progress in quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and maritime excellence.
The conference also marked the official launch of the Blue Initiative, a joint effort between AD Ports Group, Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and Vernewell Group. The initiative leverages Quantum technologies and AI to establish an integrated framework connecting education, research, and enterprise to accelerate innovation in quantum communication, sensing, optimisation, cybersecurity, and sustainable maritime operations.
Two pioneering demonstrations showcased the practical potential of quantum technologies in maritime operations: ID Quantique presented a Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network for secure ship-to-shore and port communications, while QuantumGate unveiled a quantum communication prototype demonstrating enhanced operational accuracy and data integrity across maritime networks.
The Quantum Maritime Industry Challenge 2025 and Research-to-Impact Competition were also announced during the conference, aiming to link academia, startups, and industry to foster partnerships and develop scalable solutions in logistics optimisation, navigation, and emissions management.
The success of the Quantum Maritime Conference 2025 reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for maritime innovation. By bridging science, policy, and industry, the event sets the stage for a shared vision of sustainable trade and technological progress, shaping a future where maritime excellence and environmental stewardship advance hand in hand.
