ABU DHABI, U.A.E: Guinness World Record for Power Set by Damen-Built Electric Tug in UAE

Fully electric tugs have quickly emerged from a novelty in the industry and now Damen Shipyards Group and its client SAFEEN Group, part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, have set a Guinness World Record as the Most Powerful Electric Tugboat. The vessel delivered earlier this year demonstrated what the companies are calling “unprecedented for a fully electric tug” and further the growth of this sector of the industry.

The record was set by measuring the bollard pull of Damen RSD-E Tug 2513 Bu Tinah, which achieved an average high peak pull of 78.2 tonnes. It is the first fully electric tug to operate in the Middle East and now has the unique distinction of the unique honor by a world-recognized body for record keeping. Launched in 1954 as a promotional idea for the Guinness Brewery, the Guinness Book of Records (today Guinness World Records) is an often-quoted source of data.

“This Guinness World Record achievement demonstrates that the transition to alternative energy does not come at the cost of performance,” said Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO – Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group. “We are very proud that the first electric tug in the Middle East is also making waves on a global level with this accolade and the fact that in parallel it is improving the sustainability of our operations alongside cost efficiencies in terms of overall fuel saving is extremely important.”

The record-breaking performance took place at Khalifa Port, AD Ports Group’s flagship facility where the tug is a key component of AD Ports Group’s Marine Services fleet and its electrification strategy.

The RSD-E Tug 2513 according to Damen is designed with a focus on sustainability. It offers zero emissions from tank to wake playing a significant role in reducing emissions.

The RSD-E Tug 2513 builds on the already efficient design of the diesel propulsion RSD Tug 2513. The spec sheet highlights a 320 gross ton tug with a length of 24.73 meters (81 feet). It is designed to operate at a speed of up to 12 knots and can be recharged in two hours.

The vessel can operate with a crew of just two or three persons or a maximum of up to sic and can be customized with options for oil and pollution control or fire fighting.

The electric version according to its spec sheet is very similar to the earlier diesel version which has a maximum bollard pull of 80 tonnes. It operates at a speed of 12.6 knots.

Damen has been at the forefront of electric tug development, including delivering the world’s first electric harbor tug, aptly named Sparky, in 2022 to Ports of Auckland. It won the prestigious “Tug of the Year” at the 2022 International Tug and Salvage Awards ceremony and pioneered the growing deployment of electric tugs in ports around the world.

source/content: maritime-executive.com

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Damen’s electric tug delivered to AD Ports set a new record for pull power for electric tugs (Damen) / Published Nov 12, 2024 7:44 PM by The Maritime Executive
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ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

ARAB world’s first joint satellite closer to lift-off after launch preparations completed

The 813 is scheduled for blast-off this year.

A satellite jointly built by Arab nations is a step closer to launch, with lift-off preparations complete.

More than 30 engineers from the United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain and engineers and researchers from 11 other Arab countries helped to develop the 260kg Earth observation satellite called 813.

It was expected to be launched in June from China aboard a ride-share carrier rocket, but it is now scheduled for the last quarter of this year, according to state news agency Wam.

The project was announced in 2019 with the intention of bringing Arab nations together and increasing their space sectors’ capabilities.

The satellite is named after 813AD. That was the year that Baghdad’s House of Wisdom became a public academy and library. It would attract the finest minds and usher the Arab world into a period of intellectual advancement known as the Islamic Golden Era.

Engineers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Sudan, Kuwait, Oman and Lebanon have taken part in the satellite’s development.

Amar Vora, head of space for Serco Middle East, told The National in an earlier interview that the project was a “powerful signal from the Arab world”.

“Much like Europe’s model under the European Space Agency, where long-standing co-operation has transformed Europe into a space leader, this satellite shows that Arab nations can also leverage collective strength to advance strategic capabilities,” he said.

“It brings together engineers, scientists, researchers and policymakers across the region in a way that builds not only hardware, but human capital, sovereign capability and institutional trust.”

The satellite will enter a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 550km to 650km, where it will help to capture data on agriculture, natural resource management and environmental monitoring around the world.

Engineers installed a hyperspectral imaging payload system in the satellite, which will allow in-depth analysis of soil conditions, water quality, crop health, land cover changes and pollution levels.

All stages of the satellite, including its design, assembly, integration and environmental and functional testing, were completed at the university’s National Space Science and Technology Centre.

It has also developed an operational system on campus so that data from the satellite can be received, processed and converted into maps and scientific resources that will be available for researchers and university students.

source/content: thenationalnews.com (headline edited)

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A rendering of the 813 satellite. Photo: UAE Space Agency website

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ARAB NATIONS

SAUDI ARABIA : Hail sets world record for largest off-road convoy

501 vehicles drive through the dunes of scenic Tuwaren.

Hail entered the Guinness World Records at the weekend after producing the largest-ever off-road production car convoy.

The previous record, some 449 vehicles in Australia, was smashed with 501 vehicles driving through the dunes of the scenic Tuwaren area, 42 km northwest of Hail and a location surrounded by the Aja Mountains.

A large number of people from various regions of the Kingdom, Gulf and Arab countries gathered to navigate an unpaved desert trail of 7 km, showcasing their spirit of adventure and the diversity of the region’s terrain.

The event was open to both seasoned off-road drivers and newcomers looking for a unique winter entertainment. This made it suitable for individuals, groups of friends, and families.

The convoy was accompanied by a variety of cultural and entertainment activities that contributed to enhancing the experience for visitors and participants.

Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, the governor of Hail Province and the chairman of the board of the Development Authority, thanked the Saudi leadership for supporting the development of the Kingdom’s regions. He also praised Hail’s youngsters for taking part in breaking the world record.

Omar Abdullah Al-Abdul-Jabbar, the CEO of Hail Region Development Authority, told Arab News that Hail’s entry into the Guinness World Records was a national achievement.

He said: “Hail’s achievement of this Guinness world record for organizing the largest off-road rally further solidifies its position as a leading destination for desert adventures and activities, and strengthens its presence on the local and regional tourism map.”

The event was organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority and Hail Region Development Authority, with sponsorship from the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority, and Culture House.

In addition, 14 government entities supported the event, including the Principality of Hail Region, and the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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501 vehicles took part in an off-road drive in Hail over the weekend, smashing the previous world record. (Supplied)

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SAUDI ARABIA

The UAE’s Permanent Representative Engineer Saeed Mohammed Al Suwaidi to ICAO is appointed Vice-President of the Council, October 2025

The Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) elected Engineer Saeed Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the ICAO, as Vice-President of the Council.

A press release issued today by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) stated that the election of the UAE’s representative confirms the UAE’s leading position in the international civil aviation sector and reflects the great confidence it enjoys from member states on the ICAO Council, as well as the appreciation for its prominent role in supporting ICAO’s efforts aimed at enhancing the safety, security, and sustainability of the global aviation sector.

His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, said that the election of the UAE’s representative to this high-profile position reflects the international appreciation of the country’s contributions to the development of civil aviation policies. It also underscores the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its active participation within the ICAO Council and contributing more strongly to the formulation of decisions affecting the global aviation sector, reflecting its ambitious vision for international cooperation and leadership in this field.

For his part, Engineer Saeed Mohammed Al Suwaidi, the UAE’s representative to ICAO, expressed his pride in this international assignment, stressing that his election represents a significant responsibility and an opportunity to continue strengthening the UAE’s presence within the organization and support international efforts aimed at developing the civil aviation sector according to the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability.

source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

SAUDI ARABIA: Saudi transport chief Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih elected MENA president of global body

Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih was selected in a vote during the International Association of Public Transport’s summit in Hamburg

Al-Rumaih was selected for his expertise in developing modern transport systems, leading national projects and representing Saudi Arabia in international forums

The acting president of Saudi Arabia’s Public Transport Authority has been elected president of the International Association of Public Transport for the MENA region.

Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih was selected in a vote during the association’s summit in Hamburg, Germany, this week. He will occupy the role until 2028.

Al-Rumaih was selected for his expertise in developing modern transport systems, leading national projects and representing Saudi Arabia in international forums, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Having previously served as CEO of the Saudi Railway Company and president of the Transport General Authority, Al-Rumaih has a track record of working to improve the sustainability and quality of transport in urban settings.

“I am delighted to be with you today, and to start this new phase of work with a distinguished team that brings together a number of leaders and professionals,” he said during the conference.

“I believe that public transport is not just about infrastructure, but about experience, justice, accessibility, and sustainability.

Al-Rumaih highlighted the success of the Riyadh Metro system, which became fully operational earlier this year.

He said that the metro is witnessing high rates of usage and is changing commuter behavior in the capital.

“When we provide appropriate transportation services that are clean, safe, accessible, and reliable, people respond to and adapt to them,” he said.

Al-Rumaih also spoke about how building sustainable and people-centered transport systems requires collaboration between governments, operators, the private sector, and civil society.

“The International Association of Public Transport has always been a driver of this collaboration and will grow in importance in the years to come.”

Al-Rumaih also highlighted the findings of the MENA Transport Report 2025, which assessed trends in the industry in 40 cities across 14 countries in the region.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Vice Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih. (Screengrab)

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SAUDI ARABIA

MIDDLE EAST airlines to lead global profit margins in 2025, IATA says

Global airlines are projected to record a net profit of $36 billion, with total industry revenue reaching $979 billion

Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to bolster the industry as part of their economic diversification efforts

Middle East airlines are forecast to post the world’s highest net profit margin in 2025 of 8.7 percent, outpacing global peers, according to the latest industry report.

The forecast, released by the International Air Transport Association during its 81st Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, also projects that airlines operating in the Middle East will generate a net profit of $6.2 billion this year — slightly up from $6.1 billion in 2024. The region is also expected to earn $27.20 per passenger.

Globally, airlines are projected to record a net profit of $36 billion, with total industry revenue reaching $979 billion — below IATA’s earlier $1 trillion estimate, due in part to macroeconomic uncertainties and supply constraints.

The growth of the aviation sector in the Middle East reflects broader regional expansion, as countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to bolster the industry as part of their economic diversification efforts.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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MIDDLE EAST

HAJJ ON HORSEBACK : Three Spanish friends rewriting history to perform Hajj on horseback

Pilgrims recreating historic 8,000 km route used by Andalusian Muslims

Three friends rode on horseback from Spain to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, reviving a pilgrimage route last used by Andalusian Muslims more than 500 years ago.

They reached Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region last week in time for Hajj after travelling through Spain, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Turkiye, Syria and Jordan on a 8,000 km (4,970 miles) journey.

The three Spanish Muslims, Abdelkader Harkassi, Abdallah Hernandez and Tariq Rodriguez, are fulfilling a long-held ambition after embracing Islam 35 years ago.

The three riders are accompanied by Bouchaib Jadil, a construction master living in Spain, who is providing logistical support to the team by leading the way in a car.

It all started when Abdullah Hernandez reverted to Islam 35 years ago.

He told Arab News about how he felt grateful toward Allah for blessing him with guidance — Heidaya — and he promised to complete the Hajj pilgrimage the way his Andalusian ancestors did.

The team practiced for two years before setting off in October 2024 from Al-Monaster Mosque, south of Spain.

After crossing the border of Jordan on May 2, the three Spanish friends arrived in Qurayyat city in Al-Jawf Province, in northern Saudi Arabia on Friday after a remarkable seven-month horseback journey.

During their stop in Qurayyat, the pilgrims were hosted by the head of Al-Haditha Center, Mamdouh Al-Mutairi, who welcomed them to the Kingdom and wished them a pleasant stay and an acceptable and easy Hajj, meeting with students and supporters.

The pilgrims were received with a warm welcome from the residents of Qurayyat, who posed for memorable photos with them.

Hernandez told Arab News: “The team is very excited as we are getting closer to Makkah and Madinah. These holy cities are very special to us, and we have been dreaming of reaching them for a long time. Our hearts feel full of love and hope, and we are looking forward to this moment with deep respect and happiness.

“Through this journey we want to recover a historical Andalusian route from Spain to the Harram of Makkah. It is also a trip of challenges where every step is felt by us and the horses, but also is a journey for the soul,” he added.

One of the Hajj pilgrims, Harkassi, said they were happy to revive a lost tradition. He added that the team saved money and trained for several years for the journey.

He said: “We embarked on this journey with pure intentions to realize the Hajj.”

He added: “We are almost there, and hopefully, the rest of the journey will be easier.”

Their journey, spanning diverse landscapes and extreme weather conditions, is being shared with followers on social media.

“Crossing borders has been the biggest challenge. Some countries were more difficult to cross than others as horses are not considered a mode of transport anymore, but instead they need to be ‘imported’ into each country as livestock, but Alhamdulillah, we have managed to complete all the paperwork so far,” said Hernandez.

Their expedition, known as “Hajj on Horseback,” was warmly welcomed by Muslims and non-Muslims. Hernandez added: “We’ve been received with open arms everywhere we’ve gone — each country has somehow managed to be even more welcoming than the one before, MashAllah.

“Whether in Muslim or non-Muslim countries, people have shown incredible hospitality: Inviting us into their homes, sharing meals with us, listening to our stories and engaging in meaningful conversations about Islam.

“The warmth we’ve experienced in Muslim countries has been especially profound, reflecting the deep sense of unity within our Ummah. This beautiful spirit is clearly visible in our recent videos from Turkiye and Syria.”

The team set off with limited funds, but received support from local Muslims along the way to finance the costs of the unique journey.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

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Abdelkader Harkassi, Abdallah Hernandez and Tariq Rodriguez are fulfilling a long-held ambition by completing a historic Hajj pilgrimage on horseback. (Supplied)

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HAJJ ON HORSEBACK

IRAQ : Sayyed Nehma Al-Fahham: Carving legacy in Iraq’s ancient Kufa alleys

In the heart of ancient Kufa, where Iraqi tradition clings to the air like the scent of sawdust, one man stands against the tide of time.

Sayyed Nehma Hassan al-Fahham, better known as Abu Karrar, has turned a fading heritage into a living legacy, handcrafting wooden boats just as his father and grandfather did before him.

At over sixty, Abu Karrar moves with the ease of a man half his age, weaving between planks and tools in his modest workshop, tucked within the old city’s narrow, echoing streets.

Here, with calloused hands and steady resolve, he breathes life into vessels that glide through Iraq’s rivers and marshes—from the southern waters of Basra to the far edges of Tharthar.

Boats Born of Tradition

“We build for fishermen—and sometimes for fun,” he says with a quiet smile, gesturing toward a half-finished bellem tayara (fast boat), a large craft that takes over a month of meticulous work.

Each boat tells a different story: the Kad, Rika, Kad Abu al-Gharafa, and Kad Karufi serve different needs, while the smaller Jalaka, perfect for shallow waters, can be built in just a week. Prices stretch from 500,000 ($379.85) to 7 million dinars ($5,317.96), with specialized sea-going boats like the Maheela fetching up to 25 million ($18,992.73).

Blending Old Soul with New Strength

Abu Karrar’s tools may look old-fashioned, but his methods are a careful blend of past and present. He still uses traditional woods—jam, sidr, touth, and imported jawy—but the tar once used to seal hulls has given way to fiberglass, boosting durability and streamlining the process.

“We adapt where we need to,” he said, “but the spirit of the craft stays the same.”

Kufa’s Boats, Iraq’s Waters

What starts in Kufa doesn’t stay there. His boats travel—shipped to Basra, Maysan, Al-Nasiriyah, Al-Diwaniyah, Al-Kut, and beyond.

“We source wood locally or import it, depending on the order,” he explained. “Six-arm length, seven-arm, whatever the customer wants—we make it.”

Despite the pressures of modernization and faster transport, Abu Karrar and his brothers keep the flame of this ancient trade burning. Their boats aren’t just vessels—they’re floating memories, carved in wood, and launched into Iraq’s living waters.

source/content: shafaq.com (headline edited)

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IRAQ

TUNISIAN change maker Khadija Jallouli, invents a sustainable vehicle

Khadija Jallouli, a young Tunisian entrepreneur with a disability, has called for redoubling international efforts aimed at integrating people with disabilities and involving them in decisions related to finding solutions to the challenges they face.

She is the co-founder and CEO of HawKar, a start-up specialising in manufacturing electric vehicules for people with disabilities with the aim of improving their lives by providing convenient, accessible and sustainable mobility solutions.

Ms. Jalouli spoked about her experience from the podium in the iconic General Assembly Hall at the opening session of the activities of the 17th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP17), which began on Tuesday and continues until June 13, under the theme Rethinking disability inclusion in the current international juncture and ahead of the Summit of the Future, which is taking place at UN Headquarters in September.

In an interview with UN News, Ms. Jallouli said she is participating in COSP17 to shed light on the challenges facing people in motion and how to find solutions to them to create a more inclusive world as well as to inspire participants to take action to find solutions and involve everyone.

Watch her story below:

source/content: news.un.org /UN News (headline edited)

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UN Photo/Loey Felipe / Khadija Jallouli, a youth representative from Tunisia, addresses the Conference of States Parties (COSP17).

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TUNISIA

MOROCCO’s Aviation Sector Rockets to 5th Globally, Leads Africa 2024

After just twenty years in aviation manufacturing, Morocco has outpaced all African nations to become the continent’s primary supplier of aircraft parts.

Morocco’s aviation manufacturing sector is concluding 2024 with unprecedented growth, as exports surged 17.3% to reach MAD 21.86 billion ($2.1 billion) in the first ten months, surpassing the entire previous year’s record of MAD 21.85 billion.

The North African country has solidified its position as Africa’s primary aviation equipment and spare parts manufacturer, ranking fifth globally among the most dynamic countries in the aviation sector, according to Afaf Saïdi, Director of Aviation, Railway, Naval Industries and Renewable Energies at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

“Morocco has become the main source of equipment and spare parts at the African level after just twenty years of launching its first initiative in this sector,” Saïdi told the Moroccan News Agency. “This exceptional performance not only demonstrates the resilience of our national aviation industry but also reflects its ability to adapt to global market momentum.”

The sector currently employs 21,000 skilled workers across 142 companies, with a local integration rate exceeding 40%. Industry Minister Riyad Mzour announced in July that Morocco aims to double the sector’s employment by 2030.

This year marked several significant developments for Morocco’s aviation industry. The country hosted the Morocco Air Show 2024 in Marrakech, which facilitated new strategic partnerships with industry giants Boeing and Airbus.

A major milestone was the inauguration of Safran’s $300 million aircraft engine manufacturing facility in Casablanca, expected to create hundreds of jobs and facilitate advanced technology transfer.

‘Adopting a proactive approach’

Other major manufacturers including Bombardier, Stelia, and Aerospace have expanded their investments in the country through new facilities and expansions of existing sites. These initiatives aim to meet growing demand from major aviation companies for high-quality components while contributing to local economic growth.

The government has developed specialized industrial zones for aviation manufacturing, including the Midparc zone, which offers modern infrastructure, ready-to-use land, and tax incentives. The Tanger Med Port plays a pivotal role in supporting the sector’s growth through export operations.

“We are adopting a proactive approach to ensure our aviation industry aligns with rapid global developments,” Saïdi explained. “Innovation is at the core of our priorities, with special focus on environmentally friendly technologies and reducing carbon footprint, strengthening the kingdom’s position as a competitive and sustainable industrial platform.”

The sector’s growth in 2024 represents a significant improvement from 2023’s modest 2.4% increase in exports. This expansion is attributed to strong global demand and product diversification, encompassing spare parts and complete equipment for major aviation manufacturers.

Looking ahead, Morocco’s aviation sector is positioning itself for further expansion through new ecosystem development, implementation of more complex projects, and addressing challenges in digital transformation, decarbonization, and technological innovation, while leveraging the talents of young Moroccan professionals.

source/content: moroccoworldnews.com (headline edited)

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Morocco’s aviation exports hit $2.1 billion in record-breaking 2024.

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MOROCCO