DSAA Celebrates 25 Years of Maritime Excellence and Unveils Strategic Future Vision
- Jan 12
- 3 min read
Updated: May 15
The Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA) marked a significant milestone on 8 January 2026 with the celebration of its Silver Jubilee, commemorating 25 years of contribution to Dubai’s maritime sector and wider trade ecosystem. The occasion brought together senior leaders from across the maritime, logistics, trade, and government sectors, while also marking the introduction of a renewed institutional identity reflecting DSAA’s evolving role and future direction.
A Gathering of Maritime and Trade Leaders
Held in the presence of over 400 distinguished guests and industry representatives, the event underscored the importance of collaboration, industry dialogue, and strategic partnership in supporting Dubai’s continued growth as a leading global maritime and trade hub.
The Silver Jubilee welcomed representatives and stakeholders from DP World, Dubai Customs, Dubai Ports Authority, Dubai South, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), Dubai Trade, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), dnata, Company of Masters Mariners, The Nautical Institute, AD Ports Group, fellow representatives from FONASBA, as well as leading member companies and maritime organizations including MSC, HMM, American Bureau of Shipping, Kanoo Shipping, Sharaf Shipping, and others from across the industry.
Key Addresses Highlighting Strategic Priorities
Opening remarks were delivered by H.E. Salah Sharaf, Chairman of DSAA, who reflected on the association’s 25-year journey and the collective efforts that have contributed to the advancement of Dubai’s maritime sector.
“We, the people of Dubai… We, the maritime community of Dubai… And we, the traders of Dubai…have always shared one belief. A belief instilled by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — that only first place is acceptable, and that excellence is not an aspiration, but a standard.” stated H.E. Salah Sharaf.
The event’s keynote address was delivered by H.E. Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, who highlighted Dubai’s strategic position within global trade and emphasized the importance of continued innovation, adaptability, and collaboration across the shipping and logistics industry.
Association remarks were delivered by Ms. Ghaya AlMansoori, General Manager of DSAA, who outlined the association’s renewed direction and strategic priorities for the years ahead.
"The maritime sector today operates in an environment that demands cooperation, clarity, and trust — between the private sector and government, between established leaders and emerging voices, and across the broader logistics and trade ecosystem." said Ms Ghaya AlMansoori
Since its establishment, DSAA has played an important role in representing the interests of shipping agents and maritime service providers while facilitating constructive engagement between industry stakeholders and government entities. Over the years, the association has contributed to strengthening communication, supporting operational dialogue, and encouraging greater collaboration across the maritime and logistics sectors.
Reflecting on 25 Years of Industry Representation
Since its inception, DSAA has played a pivotal role in representing the interests of shipping agents and related maritime service providers in Dubai. The association has consistently worked to facilitate communication between the private sector and government entities, contributing to policy development and operational improvements.
The Silver Jubilee celebration served as a moment to acknowledge these achievements and the collective efforts that have shaped Dubai’s maritime landscape. It also recognized the association’s commitment to supporting sustainable growth and adapting to technological advancements and regulatory changes.
Unveiling a Renewed Identity for the Future
A key highlight of the evening was the unveiling of DSAA’s renewed identity, representing a new strategic chapter for the association as it continues to evolve alongside the rapidly changing maritime landscape. The renewed direction reflects DSAA’s focus on strengthening member engagement, expanding industry collaboration, supporting professional development initiatives, and reinforcing its role as a representative platform for the sector at both regional and international levels.
Dubai’s Maritime Sector: A Global Trade Hub
The event also reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation between public and private sector stakeholders in addressing the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of maritime trade, logistics, and global connectivity. As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a leading global gateway for commerce and maritime activity, the role of industry collaboration and unified representation remains increasingly vital.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for DSAA
The Silver Jubilee celebration marked not only a reflection on DSAA’s achievements over the past 25 years, but also the beginning of a renewed and forward-looking chapter for the association and the wider maritime community it represents.
As Dubai’s maritime and logistics ecosystem continues to evolve in scale and sophistication, DSAA remains committed to serving as a unifying platform for industry engagement, representation, and strategic dialogue — supporting the continued advancement and resilience of the sector for years to come.
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