Breakbulk Middle East, the GCC's leading breakbulk and project cargo sector event, has officially started Monday. The fourth annual edition is taking place under the patronage and attendance of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the UAE Minister of Infrastructure Development and the Chairman of Federal Transport Authority for Land and Maritime who also delivered a Ministerial Welcome. Thus far, the first day of the two-day exhibition being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, in Dubai, UAE, has proved to be a huge success. Speaking on the event's opening ceremony, Dr. Al Nuaimi said "Dubai's infrastructure heavily relies on its accommodation of over 13,000 maritime and investment activities which are directly resulting in more than 76,000 job opportunities. The first day of this exhibition has already formulated captivating discussions and showcased strong leadership, both major factors which will surely assist in increasing the country's global maritime stock, and enhance the jobs encompassed by its thorough shipping landscape. Both the location, and the time, of this year's event are optimal and we remain vigilant and boast confidence that the presence of Breakbulk Middle East 2019 will largely contribute to our showcasing our commitment." Commenting on the importance of this year's event, Princess Sarah Al Saud, Director of Maritime Business Development at the International Forum for Maritime Transport, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in Alexandria, said "after only one day, Breakbulk Middle East has once again proven its stature as the ideal networking platform for shippers, ports, carriers, forwarders and heavy transport specialists. The influence of this event is visibly apparent, as it has done a tremendous job of uniting and structuring communication lines between the top five industrial sectors spanning metal, energy, manufacturing, oil and gas, and shipping, which are all essential to the region's economic prosperity. Additionally, we understand the event's growing reputation and significance of its ability to promote interactive discussion among international leaders and key players within the global breakbulk and cargo industry." Echoing a similar voice Khamis Juma Buamim, the Chairman of Dubai Council for Marine and Maritime Industries, added, "The UAE's determined strides for excellence have led to the UAE's attainment of first-class shipping and proven logistic capability. Likewise, it's undeniable that events such as Breakbulk Middle East 2019 have greatly contributed to the success of our great Emirate. This year's turnout has painted an accurate portrayal of the UAE's pioneering efforts, which have successfully positioned Dubai as a competitive environment synonymous with stimulating trade, business and investment. Witnessing the attendance of over 2000 individuals and international representation of over 55 countries only solidifies Breakbulk's credibility as a platform that unites necessary industry powers and aids in raising awareness of Dubai's global recognition as an elite international maritime hub." Ben Blamire, the event's Commercial Director, spoke on the event's opening day stating, "The active mobility of this event in a country like the UAE which seeks to build an alternative oil based economy is a competitive advantage given the vast participation by distinguished companies attending from within Dubai as well as from abroad. The diversity of those in attendance today is an attribute which will play in favor of the UAE as the first day of this year's exhibition has clearly produced a climate, which opens opportunities for communication and knowledge while simultaneously increasing the ability to make deals and enhance business development." Leslie Meredith, Marketing Director, Breakbulk Events & Media, said "it's exciting to see that the event has only hit the halfway mark, yet it's already witnessing record-shattering engagement. Majorly contributing to the overpowering exposure of this year's edition is the cooperation of over 30 sponsors and 40 media partners. Additionally, we have organized over 10 panel discussions which feature in excess of 30 conference speakers to provide expert opinion, insight and analysis on market trends and suggestions to further strengthen the UAE's already outstanding position in regards to maritime and the break bulk industry." — SG
