The Federal Transport Authority (FTA) and Abu Dhabi Ports have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that mandates Abu Dhabi Ports’ marine services subsidiary, SAFEEN, to conduct emergency response services across the UAE’s waters
The signing of the MoU is part of the effort by FTA to strengthen its partnerships with major national companies and authorities in the maritime sector with the aim of optimising the safety, security and environmental protection of the marine domain within the UAE.
The responsibilities will include all types of marine emergencies including, oil spills, firefighting, wreck removal, salvage, grounding, rescue towing, maritime surveying, search and rescue, and a host of ancillary services.
Under the terms of the agreement, SAFEEN will work closely with the FTA to provide services and rapid response to emergency cases, as well as exchanging information and knowledge on an ongoing basis and sharing resources with the FTA upon request.
Ahmed Mohamed Sharif Al Khoori, director general of the FTA, said, “Our MoU with Abu Dhabi Ports is a major step in upgrading the standards of health and safety in the UAE’s maritime sector."
“By nurturing partnerships with leading national companies that provide reliable, safe and effective marine services, the authority will have the tools and procedures that will enable it to decisively respond to emergencies and ensure safety and security across the maritime sector. Our agreement will also allow us to provide further support to the coastguard and other local authorities that are essential to securing and safeguarding the UAE’s waters.
Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, group CEO, Abu Dhabi Ports, commented, “The terms of our accord reflect the spirit of good will that exists between our two parties as we seek to engage and collaborate in innovative ways that serve to further protect our marine environment’s precious resources, while also enhancing the safety of our nation’s territorial waters as well as the security of all our ports.”
