Maritime Mapping: UAE Unveils Satgate Project

The United Arab Emirates has announced the launch of the Satgate project in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to improve maritime mapping. By employing satellite and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, the transformational project will enhance the efficiency of locating ships, monitoring sea conditions, and forecasting the weather. The announcement was made by the UAE's Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI).

According to Emirates News Agency report, the goal of the Satgate project is to develop a database of ships that call at UAE ports and help maintain the security of maritime facilities and coasts by tracing the location of ships that are not connected to tracking devices. Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, said that the project represents a significant advancement in utilising space technology to benefit the maritime sector.

The Satgate project seeks to

•Develop a database of ships that call at UAE ports
•Enhance partnerships with space and satellite agencies
•Expand coverage to better monitor ships in the future
•Help maintain the security of maritime facilities and coasts
•Benefit maritime… pic.twitter.com/IUpsMI9cuV

— وزارة الطاقة والبنية التحتية (@MOEIUAE) July 8, 2024

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE's Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted the importance of the initiative in driving maritime security and enhancing the competitiveness of the national maritime sector. "Improving our tracking systems using advanced technology will enhance maritime transport and mitigate risks, which will contribute to increasing trade and transport traffic through UAE ports," added Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei in the statement.