In the 2024 report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UAE has been recognized as one of the top 35 countries globally with the largest maritime fleets by tonnage and capacity. This achievement underscores the UAE’s growing influence and vital role in international shipping and global trade.
The UAE is joined by three other Gulf nations—Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar—on this prestigious list, reflecting the strength and integration of the GCC’s maritime capabilities. The inclusion of these countries highlights the region’s significant contribution to global shipping, with advanced infrastructure, state-of-the-art ports, and a solid commitment to enhancing maritime efficiency.
According to the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC-Stat), 10 major Gulf container ports have also been ranked among the 70 most efficient ports in the world in 2024, out of a total of 405 ports globally. This efficiency is a testament to the strategic investments and ongoing improvements in infrastructure across the Gulf region, positioning it as a key player in international logistics.
In 2023, the GCC commercial fleet made up more than half—54.2%—of the total Arab commercial fleet, with the UAE being a major contributor. The region also outperformed the Arab average in the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index, with a remarkable score of 100.5, further enhancing the UAE’s reputation in global shipping connectivity.
GCC ports continue to thrive in container productivity, with two of them being recognized as high-production ports, handling over 4 million containers annually. An additional eight ports are classified as medium-production ports, with outputs ranging from 0.5 million to 4 million containers.
The GCC’s maritime success is also supported by the Unified Maritime Operations Centre, a collaborative initiative that ensures the security of territorial waters and promotes free and safe navigation. This center exemplifies the Gulf’s commitment to stability in the region and its strategic importance in global maritime operations.
As the UAE and its GCC partners continue to strengthen their maritime fleets and port facilities, their position as global leaders in shipping, logistics, and trade is set to grow even further, ensuring the region remains a hub for international commerce.
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