SMA marks International Day for Women in Maritime

May 19, 2026 / 5:07 PM

Sharjah24: Hashem Al Zaabi, Director of Sharjah Maritime Academy (SMA), affirmed that the academy continues to support women’s empowerment and enhance their presence in maritime specialisations through academic and professional initiatives aimed at preparing qualified national talent.

This came as the academy celebrated the International Day for Women in Maritime 2026 on Tuesday, organising a panel discussion focused on advancing gender equality in the maritime sector.

Session discusses gender equality in maritime sector

The discussion session, titled “From Campus to the Maritime Sector: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence,” brought together representatives from the maritime industry, academia, international organisations and students.

Supporting women from education to employment

Hashem Al Zaabi explained that the session emphasised the importance of empowering women and supporting their transition from maritime education into the labour market.

The discussions also highlighted opportunities for women in maritime transport, marine engineering and navigation.

Growing number of female students

Al Zaabi stated in remarks to “Sharjah24” that the academy currently has a large number of female students enrolled in maritime transport and marine engineering programmes.

He added that several academy graduates are already working in the maritime sector, both on board ships as engineers and as maritime navigation specialists.

Commitment to empowering women

The Director of Sharjah Maritime Academy affirmed that these efforts demonstrate the academy’s commitment to empowering women and enhancing their participation across various maritime specialisations.

He noted that the academy continues to work to prepare qualified national talent capable of contributing to the development of the maritime sector in the United Arab Emirates.