THE UAE’s maritime industry is firmly setting an industry platform for environmental innovation with the official unveiling of the region’s first oil-spill detection system - as well as the next generation of a multi-award-winning bow designed to save fuel - at this year’s Seatrade Middle East Maritime (SMEM) – just some of several new innovations to be showcased.
As a world-leading maritime market, the UAE is constantly increasing its importance as a nation which is producing consistent innovation and progressive technologies.
Emma Hamilton, Seatrade Middle East marketing manager, said: “The number of exhibitors who will be launching new products this October to help with environmental maritime issues is the most we have ever seen. Environmental issues continue to be a pressing topic and it is fantastic to see both the UAE, and the Middle East maritime industry positioning itself as a pioneer for the development of green technology.”
Making its debut for the first time in the region will be the ‘Rutter Sigma – 6’ oil-spill detection system from Sharjah-based Zenar Marine. The technology works in all weather conditions and at a time when the potential impact of an oil spill is most pertinent, this is sure to generate substantial interest during October’s three-day event at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Fuel-efficient technology is one of the industry’s most pressing topics and SMEM exhibitor the Ulstein Group ME will be launching its next generation X-Bow, a backward sloping bow which helps vessels gain higher speeds with lower resistance and reduced fuel consumption. Launched in 2005, the original patented design reduced fuel consumption by up to 16 per cent through redistributed foreship volume and substantially reduced flare.
Unique System FZE will also be exhibiting its latest fuel performance system, which helps to monitor fuel consumption in relation to distance and speed. The Marorka technology will be showcased for the first time at SMEM and the Unique team will be on hand to explain how the management system can help to track and improve a vessel’s fuel efficiency.
“The industry has of course been hit by the financial crisis, as most industries have, and this combined with the competitive nature of the maritime market is making the current climate very challenging,” said Venkatesh Rao, product sales manager at Unique System.
“Unique System is at the forefront of technological innovation and this combined with the excellent services we provide has helped to cushion the blow from the global downturn. We are looking to the long-term and being part of Seatrade means that we are in the limelight and this is very positive for our business.”
Anyone who would like to find out the latest news from the UAE’s maritime industry, along with the regional and international players, should attend this year’s SMEM, which will take place from October 26 to 28 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.