The 2026 World Maritime Day celebrations took place in Alexandria, Egypt, under the theme "From Policy to Practice: Enhancing Maritime Excellence." The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Engineer Kamal El-Wazir, Minister of Transport, Engineer Ayman Attia, Governor of Alexandria, and Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority. The celebrations showcased Egypt's commitment to developing its maritime sector and enhancing its position as a regional hub for transport and logistics.
Minister of Transport, Engineer Kamal El-Wazir, emphasized that the Egyptian government is paying great attention to the maritime transport sector, considering it a fundamental pillar of economic development. He highlighted the government's comprehensive program to develop ports, infrastructure, and logistics services, as well as the development of eight international logistical corridors. These corridors aim to connect the Red Sea and Mediterranean ports with the Suez Canal axis, dry ports, and industrial and agricultural areas.
Engineer Ayman Attia, Governor of Alexandria, stressed that the governorate has a historical significance in maritime transport and has witnessed a significant developmental leap in recent years. He pointed out that the development of the maritime transport sector is part of the state's vision for 2030 and aims to enhance the competitiveness of Egyptian ports. The governor highlighted several major projects in Alexandria, including the development of the Alexandria and Dekheila ports, as well as the construction of the "Tahya Misr" multi-purpose station.
Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, reviewed the efforts made to support maritime navigation, despite the challenges posed by regional geopolitical tensions. He emphasized the authority's commitment to neutrality and its continuous work to ensure the efficient operation of the canal. The Suez Canal Authority has launched several new services to support transiting ships and has developed its maritime infrastructure.
Dr. Ismail Abdel Gafar, President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport, stated that the 2026 World Maritime Day theme reflects the importance of transitioning from policy-making to practical implementation. He highlighted the rapid transformations in the maritime transport sector, including the green transition, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. Dr. Abdel Gafar emphasized the need for qualified personnel to lead these transformations and ensure the sector's sustainability.
The celebrations also included a review of the development efforts in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, presented by Mustafa Shekhoun, Chairman of the Zone's Authority. He highlighted the development of ports and industrial areas, as well as the integration with the Ministry of Transport's projects, such as the Sokhna-El Capital-El Alamein-Matruh electric train project.
The 2026 World Maritime Day celebrations in Alexandria concluded with a focus on Egypt's growing role in maritime transport and logistics. The event showcased the country's efforts to enhance its maritime sector, develop its ports, and improve its competitiveness as a regional hub for trade and transit. Key points from the celebrations include:
Key points
- Egypt is developing its ports and logistics services to enhance its position as a regional hub for transport and logistics.
- The country is working to improve its maritime infrastructure, including the development of new ports and the expansion of existing ones.
- Egypt aims to enhance its competitiveness in the maritime sector through the implementation of international standards and the adoption of green and digital technologies.
