Implementing the first LNG supply operation to ships in Dubai ports

The Dubai Ports Authority, affiliated with the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, announced the implementation of the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply to ships in the Emirate of Dubai, as part of the Authority’s commitment to achieving the goals of carbon neutrality for the Emirate of Dubai by 2050, and ensuring the transition to more sustainable energy sources. And work to reduce the carbon footprint in the maritime transport sector.

This operation – the first of its kind in the region – is an important achievement towards promoting sustainable practices and preserving the environment, which strengthens Dubai’s position as a global center for environmentally friendly maritime operations.

The cruise ship “Costa Smeralda” was supplied with liquefied natural gas in “Dubai Harbour” in an important step towards enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. The initiative comes within the framework of the emirate’s ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems and reduce the effects of climate change, and is also in line with the goals of the UAE. In reducing carbon emissions, in addition to the global goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in this field.

The CEO of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Nasser Al Neyadi, confirmed that the successful completion of the first liquefied natural gas supply operation reflects the authority’s commitment to supporting the carbon neutrality strategy of the Emirate of Dubai by promoting the use of alternative fuels, which contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and protecting the marine environment for future generations.

He said: “We are committed to building a sustainable marine system that keeps pace with Dubai’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and provide 100% of energy production capacity from clean energy sources by 2050 through innovative ideas and integrated regulatory support. All relevant teams are working to confront current challenges and create opportunities to promote environmentally friendly practices.” “This strengthens Dubai’s position as a leading global center in the maritime field.”

For his part, the Executive Director of the Dubai Ports Authority, the regulatory body supervising port operations in the Emirate of Dubai, Captain Ibrahim Al Balushi, said: “The authority is working to develop the regulatory framework that contributes to facilitating the operations of supplying ships with liquefied natural gas fuel, while encouraging the use of alternative fuels in The emirate’s water is aimed at reducing the carbon footprint.”

He added, “A fuel supply regulation has been developed that includes regulations and laws that provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for port operators and suppliers of alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas, with the regulation adhering to the highest standards of safety and environmental protection, as well as enhancing operational efficiency in accordance with international standards.”

Al Balushi stressed that the successful completion of the first LNG supply operation in Dubai is evidence of the authority’s commitment to promoting the UAE’s environmental goals, and reflects the strategic vision of the Dubai Ports Authority in making the emirate a leading center for sustainable maritime operations.