UAE and DNV to set up Maritime Decarbonization Centre

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Foundation Det Norske Veritas (DNV) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on establishing a new UAE Maritime Decarbonization Centre by the beginning of next year. The MoU was signed by H.E. Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, DNV Maritime CEO, at the IMO headquarters in London.

The Centre will work on connecting stakeholders from across the maritime industry and beyond, the partners said, to become a driving force for reducing greenhouse gas emissions globally.

H.E. Suhail Al Mazrouei commented: "The establishment of the UAE Maritime Decarbonization Centre reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices within the maritime industry. By collaborating with DNV, we aim to leverage their expertise and global network to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of decarbonization technologies. The Centre will play a pivotal role in advancing our national and regional sustainability goals while contributing to global efforts in combating climate change."

Speaking for DNV, Ørbeck-Nilssen said: "We are very pleased to collaborate with the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure to establish the Maritime Decarbonization Centre. Initiatives like the Centre are essential as we look to accelerate towards a decarbonised future. We need to build via cooperation, foster innovation, and scale local strengths into global leadership. With its strategic location and strong support from industry leaders, the Centre is poised to become a hub for maritime decarbonisation efforts."

President and CEO of the Foundation Det Norske Veritas and DNV, Remi Eriksen, said: "The Foundation Det Norske Veritas is driven by a desire to help society tackle major global transformations. The recent IMO decision to greatly strengthen international shipping’s emissions targets will spur the maritime industry to accelerate its transition."

"At DNV, we deeply believe that cross-industry collaboration is vital to realising this goal," he continued, "and are working to share our deep and broad industry expertise through maritime decarbonisation centres in key regions of the world. The founding of the UAE Decarbonization Centre, in cooperation with the Ministry, is another significant milestone for the industry, and we look forward to welcoming new partners in the future," he added.