ABU DHABI MARITIME
AWARDS 2024
During our 2023 edition, we celebrated the very best, from exceptional marinas to groundbreaking achievements.
Mark your calendars and get ready to set sail for an even grander celebration!
The Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards 2024 promises to be truly stunning.
HEADS UP!
Submission
Closing 31st August
Voting
Cast your vote for the Most Popular Marina Award! Voting starts from 20th October till 23rd November.
Ceremony
23rd November
- 00Days
- 00Hours
- 00Mins
- 00Sec
THE AD MARITIME AWARDS
As custodians of Abu Dhabi’s seas, Abu Dhabi Maritime champions a thriving maritime domain that upholds the highest safety, health, and efficiency standards. As part of AD Ports Group in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Mobility – Department for Municipalities and Transport (DMT), we propel the Emirate towards its ambition as a leading global maritime capital.
Following the resounding success of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards in 2023, where we celebrated the very best marinas across the Middle East and Turkey for their achievements in safety, service, environmental practices, innovation, and sustainability, preparations for the 2024 ceremony are well underway.
This year promises to be even more impressive as we showcase the brightest stars in marina excellence. The 2024 Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards are gearing up for a spectacular event. Prepare yourselves for a glittering celebration!
Outstanding Marina Award
Introducing the esteemed Outstanding Marina Award – an opportunity to unleash your marina’s full potential and showcase its comprehensive capabilities! By applying for this prestigious accolade, you’ll be automatically entered for consideration in all five other award categories, streamlining the process with a single submission.
This is your chance to truly shine and demonstrate the exceptional qualities that distinguish your marina. Don’t miss this opportunity to excel and gain the recognition you deserve!
AWARD CATEGORIES
The Six award categories are as follows:
Outstanding Marina Award
Participating in the Outstanding Marina Award automatically qualifies entrants for consideration in all other award categories. This involves promoting continuous improvement through new ideas and technology to enhance operations and customer experiences, ensuring exceptional customer interactions by understanding needs, and encouraging loyalty through feedback. Applicants must also demonstrate sustainability by integrating environmental responsibility into their strategies, ensure well-being by promoting a strong safety culture, and cultivate exceptional workplaces through a positive ethos and staff development.
Innovation Award
Fostering a culture of continuous improvement entails embracing innovation-driven approaches, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and achieving results that enhance operations, customer experiences, or environmental impact.
Employer Excellence Award
Providing exceptional workplaces that motivate and empower employees to reach their full potential involves fostering a positive culture, investing in talent development, and achieving solid employee-related outcomes.
Customer Experience Award
Delivering an exceptional customer experience with a deep understanding of customer needs, seamless interactions across channels, and the intelligent use of technology. This entails considering customer feedback, driving continuous improvement, and fostering loyalty and advocacy.
Sustainability Award
Commitment to sustainability involves integrating environmental responsibility into the marina’s core strategy. This includes implementing innovative programs to reduce its ecological footprint and achieve tangible results for a healthier planet.
Health & Safety Award
Commitment to sustainability involves integrating environmental responsibility into the marina’s core strategy. This includes implementing innovative programs to reduce its ecological footprint and achieve tangible results for a healthier planet.
Most Popular Marina Award
The Most Popular Marina Award, determined solely by public vote, invites passionate marina supporters to engage. Rally your community and prepare to claim this esteemed title!
AWARD CATEGORIES
The Six award categories are as follows:
Outstanding Marina Award
Participating in the Outstanding Marina Award automatically qualifies entrants for consideration in all other award categories. This involves promoting continuous improvement through new ideas and technology to enhance operations and customer experiences, ensuring exceptional customer interactions by understanding needs, and encouraging loyalty through feedback. Applicants must also demonstrate sustainability by integrating environmental responsibility into their strategies, ensure well-being by promoting a strong safety culture, and cultivate exceptional workplaces through a positive ethos and staff development.Health & Safety Award
Prioritising the well-being of employees, contractors and visitors is underpinned by a strong health and safety culture, proactive risk management systems and a demonstrably good safety record – all hallmarks of a successful organisation.
Employer Excellence Award
Providing exceptional workplaces that motivate and empower employees to reach their full potential involves fostering a positive culture, investing in talent development, and achieving solid employee-related outcomes.
Sustainability Award
Commitment to sustainability involves integrating environmental responsibility into the marina’s core strategy. This includes implementing innovative programs to reduce its ecological footprint and achieve tangible results for a healthier planet.
Innovation Award
Fostering a culture of continuous improvement entails embracing innovation-driven approaches, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and achieving results that enhance operations, customer experiences, or environmental impact.
Customer Experience Award
Delivering an exceptional customer experience with a deep understanding of customer needs, seamless interactions across channels, and the intelligent use of technology. This entails considering customer feedback, driving continuous improvement, and fostering loyalty and advocacy.
Most Popular Marina RECOGNITION
- This unique award requires no submission documents. It’s decided entirely by a public vote, driven by the passion of marina fans.
- In this award juries will not partake- it’s all about the enthusiasm of passionate marina supporters!
- In this exciting competition, victory hinges on rallying your fans to vote and being fully prepared for the challenge.
- Is your marina ready to claim the coveted title of most popular, backed by its loyal community? Let your fans’ passion roar!
Testimonials
Hear what past participants say about the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards.
Captain Mike Fetton
JLS Yachts
Dear Abu Dhabi, Maritime Awards. I am writing to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the honor of being invited to serve as a judge for the inaugural Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards Marina Edition. It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to participate in such a prestigious event that celebrates excellence in marinas.ADEL MAANI
Marina Manager | Ayla Marina
Please allow me to congratulate and thank you for organizing the Abu Dhabi boat show, the Abu Dhabi Maritime Award – Marina edition, and for hosting us. It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stood before you, on behalf of Ayla, to accept the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards for the Best in Environment and Best in Safety.Marine Manager,
Ayla
Director of Marinas,
Aldar Marinas
Director of Revenue & Business
Development, Ayla
Managing Director,
D-Marin
Captain Mike Fetton
JLS Yachts
Dear Abu Dhabi, Maritime Awards.
I am writing to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the honor of being invited to serve as a judge for the inaugural Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards Marina Edition. It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to participate in such a prestigious event that celebrates excellence in marinas.
Moreover, I wanted to take a moment to commend the exceptional efforts and dedication exhibited by the entire team involved in organizing and executing the awards. The meticulous planning, tireless commitment, and unwavering passion that went into orchestrating this event were truly commendable. It was evident that each member of the team poured their heart and soul into making the awards a resounding success.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and winners. Each submission stood as a testament to the hard work, ingenuity, and dedication prevalent in the marine leisure industry It was a humbling experience to witness such remarkable achievements.
Once again, I express my gratitude for involving me in this esteemed endeavor. I am honored to have been part of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards Marina Edition, and I look forward to witnessing the continued success and growth of this incredible event in the years to come.
Please convey my sincere appreciation to the entire team for their outstanding contributions.
Warmest regards,
ADEL MAANI
Marina Manager | Ayla Marina
Please allow me to congratulate and thank you for organizing the Abu Dhabi boat show, the Abu Dhabi Maritime Award – Marina edition, and for hosting us.
It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stood before you, on behalf of Ayla, to accept the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards for the Best in Environment and Best in Safety. This honor not only celebrates our marina's physical beauty and facilities but also our unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and safety.
Ayla's vision is a seamless blend of Aqaba's rich heritage with the pulse of modern innovation. We've attempted to construct more than just a marina but a vibrant hub where the timeless character of Aqaba is honoured amidst contemporary experiences. Our design philosophy was simple: to reflect the city's spirit in every curve and cornerstone while introducing facilities that redefine seaside living.
Sustainability and safety are at the forefront of our operations. We've invested in cutting-edge technologies and practices to ensure that our impact on the environment is not only mitigated but also contributes positively to the ecological balance. It's this forward-thinking approach that we believe is key to providing an exceptional experience. We wanted to create a sanctuary for families, a playground for the adventurous, and a retreat for those seeking tranquillity.
In receiving these awards, we reaffirm our commitment to the city of Aqaba — to enhance its allure, celebrate its culture, and contribute to its economy without compromising the charm that has been its signature for centuries.
Thank you once again for this honour, which stands as a beacon, guiding us toward even greater achievements in service, innovation, and community building.
Looking forward to participating in the 2024 event.
Kind regards
OUR JUDGES
Capt. Salmeen Alhammadi
Head of Business Development
Emirates Classification Society
Captain Saif Al Mheiri
Managing Director
Abu Dhabi Maritime
Gunther Alvarado
Chief Operating Officer
Al Seer Marine
Patricia Caswell
General Manager
Gulf Craft Services
Capt. Michael Fetton
Managing Director
JLS Yachts
Farrokh Golchin
Managing Director
StratConn LLC
Prof. El Hadi Mohamed El Tigani
VP - Corporate Excellence
DEWA and Coordinator General of the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award SKEA
Ahmad Al Khayat
Senior VP - Excellence Management
AD Ports Group Corporate
Isra'a Mobideen
Middle East Regional Director
EFQM
Mark Kirby
CEO
EMAAR Hospitality
Wyndham Tops
Executive Director
Marinas Red Sea Global
Capt. Salmeen Alhammadi
Capt.Salmeen Alhammadi is Head of Business Development at Emirates Classification Society. He is a seasoned professional with a robust background in the field of business development and operations, particularly within the onshore and offshore sectors, marine, shipping including oil and gas, with more than 18 years of experience.
Career highlights include his role as Head of Business Development/ISD at Emirates Classification Society where he was responsible for coordinating activities to ensure high standards, conditions and safe operation of marine operations and activities.
During his tenure as VP - Business Development/Head of Marketing/Dept. Head of Port & Offshore Commercial at ADNOC L&S, his strategic acumen came to the forefront, navigating the complex landscape of logistics and compliance, forging connections across multiple entities for the cohesive execution of regulatory activities and seamless logistics operations.
Gunther Alvarado
Gunther Alvarado became captivated by the maritime industry at a very early age whilst accompanying his father, a veteran ABS surveyor, on multiple ship surveys around Central America.
After his undergraduate studies in North America, he has dedicated over two decades of his career to the superyacht industry, serving in both onboard and ashore capacities. Today, Gunther leads the ongoing development of the Leisure & Commercial business segments at Al Seer Marine, a leading marine company in the Middle East.
Overseeing one of the world’s largest superyacht operations with a talented team of +700 crew and support staff, Gunther has first-hand experience in influencing the world’s superyacht industry to maintain peak performance and together overcoming challenges with revolutionary solutions.
Gunther strongly believes that the superyacht industry has immense synergies and opportunities in the UAE and Middle East where we can help develop the next chapters of the superyacht industry.
Patricia Caswell
Dedicated to a life at sea, Patricia Caswell is an experienced maritime professional, serving as a Superyacht Captain. With a career spanning over 27 years, Patricia is known for her commitment to excellence, professionalism, and her deep passion for luxury yachting and the marine industry.
In her role as a Superyacht Captain, Patricia has successfully navigated some of the world's most challenging and prestigious waters. Her extensive knowledge of marine operations, safety protocols, and yacht management has earned her a reputation for ensuring the utmost comfort and security for discerning yacht owners and their guests.
In addition to her maritime expertise, Patricia has seamlessly transitioned into the role of combining Captain and Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) Family Asset Manager. She possesses a deep understanding of the unique financial and lifestyle needs of high-net-worth individuals, effectively overseeing complex personal assets and private affairs for prominent families. Her ability to provide tailored solutions while maintaining the highest levels of discretion reflects her unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and trust.
Expanding her influence in the luxury yachting industry, Patricia now serves as the General Manager of Gulf Craft Services, a leading destination for yacht maintenance, repair, and customization, known for its reputation as a world-class service provider.
Capt. Michael Fetton
Capt. Michael Fetton is from Ireland and began working in the Marine Industry over 3 decades ago.
The first few years provided him excellent training in seamanship along with the experience of traveling the world. During these years, Mike has challenged himself to learn every aspect of this industry, having worked on a wide range of boats from power to sail, high speed to displacement, and everything in between. In 2006 Mike moved to ashore and held positions of Project Manager, Business Development Manager, and Operations Manager.
Mike Fetton joined JLS Yachts in November 2015. Mike took on his current role for JLS Yachts in 2019 he become the Managing Director of JLS Yachts and its 5 divisions namely Superyacht Middle East, JLS Yacht Training Institute, The Yacht & Charter Management Company, Crew Placement Middle East and the newly opened Waypoint Trading.
Mike’s role as an MD of JLS Yachts is to control and oversee all business operations of the Company and its divisions. He provides inspiration, motivation and guidance to the managers in the company to be able to achieve its objectives effectively and efficiently.
Farrokh Golchin
Farrokh Golchin B. Eng. Civil, is the Managing Director of StratConn LLC, supplier of equipment and services to marinas in GCC and beyond.
As a professional with over 20 years of leisure marine industry experience, he has held senior positions within associations and companies in the leisure marine sector and has developed an in-depth and nuanced understanding of marinas and their impact on the greater marine industry.
Currently Farrokh sits on the Advisory Board of Global Marina Institute (GMI) as representative from the Middle East, which delivers globally recognized CMM and IMM certification and marina training with the aim of maintaining and increasing standards in marinas across the world as well as the Board of the Leisure Marine Association MENA.
Richard Haws
At the forefront of marina development projects in the GCC for almost 20 years, Richard Haws has been instrumental in the growth of leisure yachting in the UAE, launching marinas including Dubai Marina, Emirates Palace, Business Bay, Al Bateen, Al Zorah and Royal Yacht Club Ras Al Khaimah.
A previous host and multi-award winner at the Arabian Gulf Yachting Awards (2010 & 2013, since 2019 Richard has been engaged at Red Sea Global in Riyadh as Senior Director for Marinas.
Tasked with developing a new portfolio of 13 marina properties and yacht clubs across the Red Sea coastline, he is also pushing new technology boundaries by establishing a transportation network of electric and hydrogen-powered yachts.
Captain Saif Al Mheiri
Captain Saif Al Mheiri is the Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Maritime, which has been established as the primary custodian of Abu Dhabi’s waterways and tasked with helping position Abu Dhabi as a leading global maritime capital.
Captain Al Mheiri brings over 20 years of professional experience, which includes multiple senior positions at the Department of Municipalities & Transport, ADNOC Logistics & Services, ADNATCO and NGSCO. His experience spans different industries and covers a variety of areas including strategy, planning, business development, mergers and acquisitions, and transformation.
ship operations, digitalisation and innovation, oil and gas, and industrial sectors. Furthermore, he served with distinction in his role as one of the leaders that assisted in developing the Abu Dhabi Plan Maritime, which serves as the main strategy for the development of Abu Dhabi’s maritime sector.
Management, Certificates of Competency (CoC) in Master Mariners, CoC Chief Mate, an Advanced Diploma of Applied Nautical Science, CoC Second Mate, and Diploma of Applied Nautical Science.
FAQs
Entry Rules and Requirements
Does the submitter require permission to submit an entry on behalf of the marina?
The submission of an entry by the marina or on behalf of the marina by individual(s) requires permission from the person(s) in charge.
Is it possible for a marina to apply for more than one Abu Dhabi Maritime Award?
Each marina is allowed to submit multiple award applications (up to 4 submissions for 4 awards). However, when applying for five awards, only one application for the “Outstanding Marina Award” is permitted.
Is participating in the Outstanding Marina Award enough for consideration in all other categories?
Participation in the Outstanding Marina Award automatically grants eligibility for all other categories (with one submission only).
How is the Most Popular Marina Award determined?
The Most Popular Marina Award is determined through a vote-based system and does not require any submission documents.
Would a newly established marina with only one year of operation be eligible to submit for the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards?
A new marina is eligible to enter if it has been operating, or conducting live projects, for at least 12 months.
How the Juries Score Entries
How will the judges evaluate the information outlined in the marinas’ submission documents?
The judging criterion examines whether the marina provides clear evidence and demonstrates a well-thought-out understanding of the requirements outlined in the submission document.
What aspects of the marina’s strategy execution will impress the judges?
Our expert judges will examine how the strategy was executed and identify the factors that contributed to its success.
How can marinas showcase success in their entry?
When submitting an entry, it’s crucial to demonstrate success with solid, accountable evidence and explain why it deserves to win.
If you have more questions, Click here
VENUE DETAILS
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre ADNEC Group
Khaleej Al Arabi Street P.O. Box 5546
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates