The emergence and rapid growth of artificial intelligence applications over the past few years necessitates a swift response from Maritime educators worldwide.

By : Iyead Khalil 

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy (ADMA) is  is the first educational institution in the UAE to offer maritime training courses, developing national, regional, and international maritime talent. The academy boasts highly qualified and experienced teams who hone students' maritime skills using state-of-the-art maritime simulators in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports

Excellence in its training programs

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy  (  (ADMA ) focuses on excellence in its training programs, adhering to the highest locally and internationally recognized standards. The academy is equipped with a multidisciplinary center for maritime simulation, where the teaching staff provides students with the necessary training to address potential challenges and foster a culture of rapid response to mitigate any potential risks. Furthermore, the academy prioritizes research and development to drive local innovation within the maritime sector and identify industry challenges and their corresponding solutions.

Significant advancements across all fields

In 2025, the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy achieved significant advancements across all fields, particularly in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data integration, and training. This was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the team led by Dr. Yasser Al-Wahidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy.

Below are some of the key achievements in 2025:

The announcement of the establishment of Orbion, a new joint venture with UAE-based geospatial analytics company Stellaria. Orbion will provide real-time satellite-based maritime information for ports, shipping lanes, and coastal infrastructure worldwide.

By combining AI-enhanced satellite imagery with advanced data integration technologies, Orbion aims to set new standards in vessel tracking, port efficiency, environmental monitoring, and security for clients globally.

- Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy (ADMAA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ID Quantique to explore the deployment of secure quantum cybersecurity solutions across the maritime sector. This potential collaboration aims to secure maritime infrastructure and enhance digital communications against evolving cyber threats.ز

 Developing secure quantum cybersecurity services 

The MoU focuses on developing secure quantum cybersecurity services for the maritime transport sector and exploring talent development programs in the field of secure quantum security.- ADMAA also partnered with Blaze Holdings (NASDAQ: BZAI), a US-based company specializing in advanced AI-powered computing solutions.This collaboration will combine ADMAA’s applied expertise in AI with Blaze’s advanced silicon platform to promote the use of smart and autonomous infrastructure in the aerospace and maritime sectors.

Developing integrated, task-oriented AI

The academy is developing integrated, task-oriented artificial intelligence  ( AI ) models to facilitate immediate decision-making within its environmental and maritime applications. These models will be implemented on Blaze's low-power GSP processors, enabling the processing of critical data directly onboard without reliance on a terrestrial communication device.

- In the training field, and for those seeking a comprehensive self-study program with expert instructor guidance to enhance their expertise in investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical standards, the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy offers Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) courses as a comprehensive self-learning package. These courses include developing the advanced analytical and decision-making skills necessary for investment roles through our robust online curriculum.

Research and development to foster local innovation 

The Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy focuses  (ADMA) on research and development to foster local innovation in the maritime sector by identifying industry challenges and developing targeted solutions. By combining academic study with practical experience, maritime trainees gain a unique and enriching experience aboard ships as part of their academic program, acquiring the practical skills necessary to become future maritime leaders.

For those interested in operating small vessels in nearshore waters, the Abu Dhabi Academy has launched its Boat Master course to equip you with the necessary qualifications to get started.

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy Soars into the World of Artificial Intelligence

The Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy announced its collaboration with Blaze Holdings (NASDAQ: BZAI), a US-based company specializing in advanced computing solutions powered by artificial intelligence. This collaboration will combine the Academy's applied expertise in AI with Blaze's advanced silicon platform to enhance the use of smart and autonomous infrastructure in the aerospace and maritime sectors. The Academy is developing integrated, task-oriented AI models to facilitate real-time decision-making within its environmental and maritime applications. These models will be implemented on Blaze's low-power GSP processors, enabling the processing of critical data directly onboard without reliance on terrestrial communication.

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy Concludes the World's First Quantum Maritime Conference

The world's first conference of its kind saw the launch of the "Blue Initiative," which supports research and partnerships to develop smarter, safer, and more sustainable maritime solutions. The Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, the region's leading academic institution for seafarers and part of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Group, concluded the conference. Abu Dhabi Ports (ADPORTS), a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, successfully hosted the Quantum Maritime Conference 2025, the world’s first international forum dedicated to connecting quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and maritime innovation.

The event, held at the Academy’s state-of-the-art campus in Abu Dhabi on October 8 and 9, 2025, established a new global framework for collaboration, applied research, and education to advance the maritime sector.

The conference brought together over 40 speakers and delegates from more than 30 countries, including government officials, industry leaders, and prominent scientists and researchers, to explore how emerging technologies can redefine maritime operations, enhance trade efficiency, and drive sustainability.

The event was sponsored by Abu Dhabi Ports Group, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and organized by the Fernwell Group.

Keynote speakers included His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Chief Cybersecurity Officer for the UAE Government, who addressed quantum resilience and national digital sovereignty, highlighting the UAE’s leadership in building a secure and sustainable digital infrastructure. An inspiring message was also delivered by a Nobel laureate. Professor Sir Kostya Novoselov, along with Dr. Yasser Alwahedi, President of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and Malak Trabelsi Loub, CEO of the Fernwell Group, both emphasized the UAE's role in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that serve the industrial, commercial, and maritime sectors.

Dr. Yasser Alwahedi, President of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, said: "The Quantum Maritime Conference demonstrates our commitment to knowledge, collaboration, and technological advancement. Education and innovation together form the foundation of sustainable progress, reflecting the UAE's forward-looking vision. This achievement reinforces our commitment to equipping the next generation of maritime professionals with the skills necessary to navigate the era of rapid digital and scientific transformation. 

By launching the Blue Initiative during the conference, we aim to support research and partnerships that enhance the maritime sector with smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions, further solidifying the Academy's position as a global leader in maritime education and innovation." Malak Trabelsi Loub, CEO of the Fernwell Group, added: "The Quantum Maritime Conference marked the beginning of a new phase in maritime transformation. 

Over these two days, leaders, researchers, and innovators worked towards a unified goal: Translating advanced science into practical applications enhances trade, sustainability, and resilience. The conference outcomes have laid the foundation for continued progress in quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and maritime excellence, which will extend beyond this achievement.

Launch of the Blue Initiative – Quantum and Artificial Intelligence

The conference witnessed the official launch of the “Blue Initiative,” a joint effort between Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and the Fernwell Group. The initiative leverages quantum technologies and artificial intelligence to create an integrated framework linking education, research, and projects to accelerate innovation in quantum communications, sensing, optimization, cybersecurity, and sustainable maritime operations.

This initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi’s long-term mission to expand technological capabilities and develop knowledge ecosystems within the blue economy.

Demonstrating Quantum Applications Two groundbreaking demonstrations showcased the practical potential of quantum technologies in maritime operations:

ID Quantique presented its quantum key distribution network (QKD) to provide secure ship-to-shore and port communications.

QuantumGate unveiled a quantum communications prototype demonstrating enhanced operational accuracy and data integrity across maritime networks.

Also announced at the conference were the Quantum Maritime Industry Challenge 2025 and the “Research for Impact” competition, aimed at connecting academia, startups, and industry. These platforms aim to foster partnerships and develop scalable solutions in the areas of logistics, navigation, and emissions management.

The success of the Quantum Maritime 2025 conference underscores Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for maritime innovation. By connecting science, policy, and industry, the event paves the way for a shared vision of sustainable trade and technological advancement, contributing to a future where maritime excellence is integrated with environmental stewardship.

What is the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy (ADMAA)?

The Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy  (ADMAA) is the first educational institution in the UAE to offer maritime training courses, developing national, regional, and international maritime talent. The academy boasts highly qualified and experienced teams who hone students' maritime skills using state-of-the-art maritime simulators, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports, which manages several world-renowned seaports, including one of the most prominent, Abu Dhabi Zayed Port.

Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy  Musaffah focuses on excellence in delivering training programs according to the highest locally and internationally accredited standards. The academy is equipped with a multidisciplinary center for maritime simulation, where the teaching staff provides students with the necessary training to face potential challenges and foster a culture of rapid response to mitigate any potential risks. Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy also focuses on research and development to drive a culture of local innovation in the maritime sector and to identify industry challenges and their corresponding solutions.

• Advantages of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy
The following are some of the advantages enjoyed by Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy:

• The Academy's courses are recognized by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the UAE Federal Transport Authority, the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities, and Lloyd Register.

• The Academy is a comprehensive and integrated center for maritime training, offering training programs in all areas of maritime education and marine sciences.

• The Academy is the first institution in the region to use advanced virtual reality simulators to train maritime professionals.

• The teaching staff delivers mandatory and optional lessons and courses in an engaging way to ensure participants' progress.

• Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy is the only institution in the region that offers a program for high school graduates to become shipmasters or marine engineers.

• Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy witnessed the graduation of the first three Emirati women from the "Commercial Vessel Captains" program, as well as the "First Emirati Woman in Vessel Traffic Control," encouraging Emirati women to choose careers in the maritime sector in the future.

 Dr. Yasser Al-Wahidi?

Dr. Yasser Alwahedi is the Director General of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and a prominent leader in maritime education and scientific research in the UAE and the region. He has over 16 years of experience in industrial research and academic education and has played a pivotal role in developing the Academy into a leading center for training and qualifying maritime personnel according to the latest international standards. 

Marine robotics, AI, and environmental sustainability

Dr. Alwahedi is leading the Academy’s expansion efforts in advanced fields such as marine robotics, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability. He is also working to enhance academic collaboration through strategic partnerships with prestigious educational institutions such as Abu Dhabi University. He is known for his innovative vision and his active role in driving innovation and excellence in the maritime education sector.

Rethinking of teaching methods and the development of digital skills

Dr. Yasser Alwahedi stated that the emergence and rapid growth of artificial intelligence applications over the past few years necessitates a swift response from educators worldwide. This response should not only involve curriculum adjustments but also a rethinking of teaching methods and the development of digital skills. This comes within a rapidly changing job market that is becoming increasingly complex and impactful on the future of individuals and jobs

Dr. Yasser Alwahedi , Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy  (ADMAA) , premier initiative  ,marine robotics ,  UAE , Abu Dhabi University , ID Quantique