The organising committee of the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition unveiled the list of the sponsors for the first edition of the highly anticipated maritime event, which will be held on February 4-5, 2025, at the Sheraton Doha Hotel and Resort, under the patronage of Minister of Transport H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani. The list of sponsors includes Mwani Qatar as a founding strategic partners, Ooredoo as the telecom sponsor, Qatar Free Zones Authority, Milaha, and QTerminals Group as the main sponsors, Nakilat as the diamond sponsor, ABS and Invest Qatar as the platinum sponsors, in addition to DNV, Bureau Veritas, Lloyd’s Register (LR), MSC Qatar, MEDLOG, and Genesis Marine Services as the gold sponsors, and Mowasalat (Karwa) as the silver sponsor. The conference, hosted by the Ministry of Transport and organized by Mwani Qatar and Seatrade Maritime, will discuss a number of key topics relevant to the industry, including safe and sustainable shipping, digitalization and sustainability in the maritime industry, the energy transition in maritime and the role of liquefied natural gas, financing technologically advanced and environmentally friendly fleets for the future, among other topics, with the participation of a distinguished group of specialists, experts, and decision-makers from around the world. The first-of-its-kind conference in Qatar aims to enable the country’s ports and logistics sector to keep pace with growth and benefit from global expertise in these fields, contributing to the achievement of the Ministry of Transport's strategic plan to transform Qatar into a thriving regional trade and logistics hub.

Opening the press briefing, Ms. Najla Al Jaber, in charge of Road Affairs Department, the MOT, said; “The MOT hosting of this event aligns with its strategic plans of developing the maritime transportation industry, given the event’s important topics related to the maritime industry such as digitization and sustainability, transition to clean energy, financing, and building strategic partnerships, let alone its unique attendees who include decision makers, company CEOs, and international experts in the areas of ports and maritime navigation.” She added that the accompanying exhibition will highlight some of the latest global technologies on maritime transportation that can be used by the national companies in a way that ultimately contributes to developing the sector to support the national economy and trade exchange.

“The advanced infrastructure and technologies of the country’s ports, on top is the Hamad Port, have contributed to attracting major global shipping firms. The advanced technologies deployed have been playing a key role in making the handling operations faster and this helped provide more comprehensive services and more solutions that enable the clients to make the highest benefit from such an ideal business environment,” she said.

Al Jaber stressed that the MOT will continue developing the transportation and logistics services’ projects in step with the fast-paced developments and changes, to be a real legacy for the coming generations, leading to achieving the goals of the QNV 2030.

Mr. Hamad Ali Al-Ansari, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at Mwani Qatar and Chairman of the Conference and Exhibition Organising Committee, stated: "It is an honor for us at Mwani Qatar to be the founding strategic partner of the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition, which marks a milestone in the development of the maritime sector in Qatar and the region. Our partnership with Seatrade Maritime, to launch this international event in Qatar and to host its inaugural edition in the coming days reflects our firm commitment to advancing the maritime sector and enhancing Qatar’s position as a global hub for maritime and logistics services, in line with the Third National Development Strategy and the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030."

"This international maritime event provides a unique platform that brings together leaders and experts in the maritime sector from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues and challenges facing the industry and to showcase the latest innovations and solutions that promote the development of this vital sector. The inaugural edition will witness extensive participation from maritime industry leaders, experts, and specialists worldwide. Its agenda includes a series of panel discussions, workshops, and debates covering pivotal topics such as safe and sustainable shipping, digitization and sustainability, energy transition in the maritime sector, the role of LNG, financing maritime and logistics projects, and tech advanced & green fleets of the future, among other. The accompanying exhibition will feature the latest innovations and solutions presented by leading companies in the field. He added." He emphasized that Mwani Qatar believes this significant event will provide an exceptional opportunity for all participants to exchange expertise, explore new opportunities, and establish strategic partnerships that contribute to driving sustainable growth. Furthermore, it will serve as an ideal platform to highlight Qatar's achievements and progress in maritime infrastructure and logistics services, as well as its growing role as a regional and international hub for maritime trade.

Seatrade Maritime Group Director, Chris Morley, expressed excitement about the inaugural event: This is a particularly special moment for me, as Seatrade Maritime has long had ambition to organise a significant event in this important part of the world and I’m very happy that it is finally coming to fruition. Seatrade Maritime, with its 55-year heritage, has a reputation for creating meaningful partnerships and supporting the maritime industry. We have been developing world-class information services and events globally for all of those 55years and specifically in the Middle East for 25 years. For us, driving growth in Qatar’s maritime and logistics sectors through our capabilities both in this event and throughout the year in our online news and content platforms is long overdue and we’re delighted to be starting this journey. Our ambition is to bring the maritime & logistics world to Qatar, catalysing growth in those sectors and accelerating the momentum that has already been created, in no small part, by the partners and sponsors represented here today. The event will be covering multiple key topics vital to the growth of the maritime & logistics sector from excellence in port operation through to a continued conversation on future fuels and financing the fleets of the future, He added.

Commenting on the conference, Sabah Rabiah Al-Kuwari, Senior Director of Marketing Communications at Ooredoo Qatar, said: “The Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition reflects Qatar’s ambitious vision to lead in maritime innovation and sustainability. At Ooredoo, we are proud to support this important event, which fosters collaboration, drives digital innovation, and aligns with our commitment to advancing Qatar’s economic and social development in line with the National Vision 2030.” Mr. Ghanim Al-Mulla, Manager of Customs Operations at QFZ said: "Qatar's maritime sector has become one of the key drivers of our nation's growth, reflecting the vision for a sustainable and diverse economy. At QFZ, we're proud to collaborate with Seatrade Maritime Qatar 2025 under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulla Bin Mohammed Al-Thani, Minister of Transport, as it brings global leaders together to explore new opportunities and chart the future of the marine industry. Initiatives like the Marsa maritime development at Umm Alhoul Free Zone, along with our partnerships with QTerminals, Mwani Qatar and Milaha, highlight our commitment to fostering innovation, empowering global connectivity, and supporting businesses in this vital sector. We're honored to be the main partner sponsor of this event, which perfectly aligns with Qatar's vision for the future. I'd like to thank the organizers for the opportunity, and we look forward to a successful event, and we look forward to welcoming global industry leaders to Qatar."

Meanwhile, Ms. Muna Al-Bader, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Milaha stated:” As a pillar in the maritime and logistics industries, Milaha is proud to serve as the main partner for the Seatrade Maritime Qatar exhibition. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in the region's maritime sector. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders to shape the future of maritime trade and sustainability.”

In turn, Mr. Jaber Al Hajri, Corporate Communications Director at QTerminals Group comme Executive Director of Commercial Affairs nted: “We’re proud to be among the main sponsors of Seatrade Maritime Qatar and we are looking forward to engage with leading industry experts and share valuable insights that drive progress in the maritime sector. We are particularly pleased to have our own expert speakers representing QTerminals on the panel discussions, further underscoring our commitment to thought leadership and the continued growth of the industry.”

“Qatar's emergence as a vital maritime cluster represents a significant opportunity for growth and innovation in the industry. At ABS, we stand ready to support this journey by bridging the gap between safety, regulations, and technology. We have a proven track record of assisting clients in navigating the complex challenges brought about by decarbonization while meeting the evolving regulatory and operational requirements. We are fully committed to helping our clients in Qatar achieve environmental and safety excellence, driving toward a sustainable and prosperous maritime future," said Erkan Erkul, ABS Manager, Qatar Business Development. “I look forward to attending Seatrade Maritime Qatar, and having discussions on the energy transition, new technology trends and regulatory compliance,” Erkul added.

Chris Welsby, Area Manager GCC at DNV Maritime remarked: “DNV is proud to sponsor the Seatrade Maritime event in Qatar, a vital platform for fostering collaboration and innovation in the maritime and energy sectors. As a trusted partner to the industry, DNV remains committed to supporting Qatar’s vision for sustainable development through advanced technical solutions, digitalization and cybersecurity, and our expertise in decarbonization. By working closely with stakeholders across the maritime and energy value chains, we aim to empower organizations to navigate the complexities of the energy transition while ensuring operational excellence. This event is an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, share insights, and contribute to shaping a more sustainable and efficient maritime future. Together, we can build on Qatar’s strategic initiatives and strengthen the industry's role in driving sustainable growth in the region”. Panos Mitrou, Gas Segment Leader at LR stated: LR is delighted to be participating at Seatrade Maritime Qatar in Doha, the global capital of gas. LNG has an integral role to play in global energy security as we transition towards a low- or zero-emissions future. Our focus now must be on identifying how to attain sustainable gas development, using cleaner grades of LNG and minimising methane emissions. “LR is proud of its long history in the region and opened its first office in Doha in 1994. Seatrade Maritime Qatar is a great opportunity to further foster collaboration across the gas supply chain for a safe and sustainable maritime future.”

“As a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification, Bureau Veritas is delighted to sponsor Seatrade Maritime Qatar and support the continued growth and innovation of the maritime sector in the region. This event serves as a valuable platform for industry professionals to come together, exchange insights, and explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of maritime excellence. At Bureau Veritas, we are committed to supporting stakeholders as they navigate the evolving maritime landscape. Through our extensive industry expertise and leading digital technologies, we are dedicated to helping companies optimize their operations, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with the latest global standards and regulations, Kerem KIPER - Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, Vice President, IMEA Zone commented”. The theme of Seatrade Maritime Qatar — Shaping the Next Era of Maritime Excellence — aligns seamlessly with our vision of Shaping a Better Maritime World. We are excited to engage with peers and partners, gain valuable insights into emerging trends, and demonstrate our capabilities in driving sustainable progress and innovation within the maritime industry. We look forward to fostering meaningful collaboration and advancing the maritime sector in the Middle East and beyond, he added.

On his part Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Abukhadija, Mowasalat (Karwa) Executive Director of Commercial Affairs, said: “We are thrilled to participate as a Silver Sponsor in the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition, an event that reflects Qatar’s commitment to enhancing its position as a global maritime hub. Our participation comes as part of our preparations to support the operation of the Water Taxi project in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, which is an important milestone towards providing innovative and sustainable transportation solutions. We believe this project will be a valuable addition to Qatar's transport system and will not only positively contribute to the development of the maritime sector but also serve our community.” It is worth noting that the inaugural edition of the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition will focus on identifying and addressing the challenges facing the maritime transport, port, and logistics sectors in the future. By fostering in-depth discussions around seven key themes that currently dominate the maritime industry's priorities, the event aims to spotlight and shape trends that are likely to significantly impact maritime transport and the logistics sector both in the Middle East and on a global scale.