Message From The Founder
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi
Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah
The UAE is an advanced global shipping hub with over AED 280 billion in maritime businesses. It hosts dozens of international maritime companies and boasts 19 ports, some of which are ranked 1st globally. That’s why, the maritime sector needs a lot of support from maritime academic institutions, especially to supply the market with qualified young Emirati professionals. Our country is currently preparing for the next 50 years, which represents an integrated strategy for building new economic capabilities independent to the oil sector.
The education sector is the main supporter of this initiative, especially in the maritime field, which is one of the most important pillars of the country's future sustainable economy. Capitalizing on the strategic location of the UAE at the heart of global trade routes, in addition to the UAE’s advanced marine infrastructure, the country is ranked as one of the best global maritime hubs according to many international reports. Accordingly, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in Sharjah will continuously provide academically-qualified Emirati and GCC professionals to meet the growing demand for National professionals in this vital sector, which is key to the region’s maritime economy.
The Academy seeks to enhance the investment environment in the regional maritime sector by providing the necesary education and training for maritime entities. It will also enable academic partnerships with the maritime sector through the Academy’s specialized professionals. This in turn will provide the Arab maritime economy with advanced research and development capabilities.
AASTS plays a pivotal role in bridging the shortage of Emirati professionals in the local and regional markets, in addition to contributing to promoting the UAE's position as one of the key global marine hubs, not only in terms of marine infrastructure and facilities, but also as a scientific centre for the industry’s latest research, development and innovation. We highly appreciate all the outstanding efforts that have been exerted to establish AASTS as an institution with such distinctive educational standards.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi
Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah