UAE, October 25, 2017- His Excellency Dr. Eng. Abdulla Salem Al Kathiri, Director General of the Federal Authority for Land and Maritime Transport (FTA), was awarded the 'Maritime Standard Outstanding Achievement Award' at the fourth annual of 'The Maritime Standard Awards. The event, which was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, is considered to be one of the most important awards in the Maritime industry that aims to honor individuals and distinguished institutions for their outstanding achievements and best maritime practices. Dr. Eng. Al Kathiri was honored for his continuing contributions in the effort to develop maritime transport, shipping and port development. 

The FTA Director General's win is being seen as an important factor in promoting the UAE's leading maritime position at regional and global levels and is also expected to provide a big push for the UAE's candidacy for Category B membership into the International Maritime Organization (IMO) council, which will hold its elections on December 1, 2017.

Dr. Eng. Al Kathiri has led a prominent career in federal and local government for the last 30 years. He joined the FTA in 2007, where he supervised and participated in developing its strategic operational plans, which includes the National Transport Plan and the development of important systems such as road and rail transport law. The FTA Director General has also played a leading role in the development of transportation systems in the GCC region and the rest of the world. He has also represented the country across many regional and international conferences and meetings--working towards helping consolidate the UAE's leading position in the maritime and transport industry. 

Upon receiving the award, Dr. Eng. Al Kathiri thanked H.E. Dr. Abdullah Bin Mohammed Balheif Al Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Chairman of the FTA Board of Directors for his continued support. 

This year's edition of the Maritime Standard Awards saw the participation of delegations from different countries representing region different institutions in the transport, training and maritime education sectors.