Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council held its regular meeting of the Abu Dhabi Standard Technical Committee for the second quarter of 2025. Chaired by Bader Khamis Al Shemeli, Executive Director of the Conformity and Specifications Services Sector and Chairman of the Technical Committee, the meeting brought together representatives from 25 local government entities.
According to Emirates News Agency, discussions focused on new technical documents developed by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Maritime and in coordination with stakeholders including Abu Dhabi Police, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, and others. The aim is to regulate maritime activities in the emirate and enhance safety and quality. This initiative supports Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals in sustainability, innovation, and quality of life through a coordinated approach.
Five specialised technical manuals and guidelines, developed in line with international best practices, were presented during the meeting. These guides serve as regulatory and operational references to improve the efficiency and safety of maritime projects. One such document is the Abu Dhabi Guideline for Safe Maritime Activities and Operations, which provides standards for safe operations in Abu Dhabi waters. It covers commercial licensing, operational permits, and safety guidance for activities such as maritime leisure and ship management.
Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Guideline for Safe Operation of Public Water Transport was introduced, ensuring the safe use of public maritime transport. It sets safety standards, licensing requirements, and operational guidelines for service providers. Another manual, the Abu Dhabi Guideline for Designing and Building Small Marine Crafts, sets requirements for vessels under 24 metres, offering guidance on classification and safety standards.
The meeting also saw the presentation of the Abu Dhabi Guideline for Maritime Infrastructure, outlining engineering requirements for maritime infrastructure like jetties and seawalls. This guideline aims to unify practices and promote sustainable construction. Moreover, the Abu Dhabi Guideline for Safe Operations of Marine Craft was introduced, setting standards for the safe operation of marine crafts, helping owners manage operations safely and efficiently.
Bader Al Shemeli emphasized the commitment of the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council to enhancing quality, safety, and compliance in the maritime industry. He highlighted the collaborative work among government entities in developing these guidelines. Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre, affirmed the strategic importance of these guidelines in developing a regulatory framework for maritime activities, enhancing safety and service quality.
Capt. Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, praised the guidelines as a milestone in advancing Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector. He emphasized their role in ensuring safety, sustainability, and operational excellence, aligning with the emirate’s vision for global leadership in maritime infrastructure and services.
