ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates / AsiaWire.IO / – Abu Dhabi has risen to 15th place among the world’s leading maritime cities, entering the global top 15 for the first time. The ranking comes from the 2026 Leading Maritime Cities report by DNV and Menon Economics. Two years ago, the emirate ranked 22nd after first entering the top 25. Officials said the climb reflects long-term investment and close cooperation across the maritime sector.
Published every two years, the report is widely regarded as a benchmark for comparing global maritime hubs. It scores cities on attractiveness and competitiveness, maritime finance and law, maritime technology, ports and logistics, and shipping. Abu Dhabi posted gains in all five areas. It reached the global top 15 in attractiveness and competitiveness and in maritime finance and law. The 2026 findings draw on data and market assessments compiled during 2024 and 2025.
Singapore again topped the 2026 ranking, with Shanghai moving up to second place ahead of London and Rotterdam. Tokyo completed the top five, while Busan placed seventh. Dubai was ranked 12th, keeping its lead in the Middle East. Athens recorded one of the largest gains, jumping to 13th from 35th. UAE financial hubs have also climbed global tables, with Dubai breaking into the GFCI top 10 earlier this year.
Infrastructure, regulation and digital services
The sector’s growth rests on targeted investment in maritime infrastructure, updated regulatory frameworks, expanded public maritime services and fast digital transformation. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), part of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, led the effort. It worked with Abu Dhabi Maritime, a unit of AD Ports Group, and Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi. Public and private partners also supported the result.
“Abu Dhabi’s advancement in the Leading Maritime Cities Report demonstrates the impact of long-term planning and collaborative efforts,” said Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport. He said the department will keep investing in infrastructure, regulation and innovation. The goal is to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness as a place to live, work and invest, he said.
Leaders credit years of investment
Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said the ranking reflects the leadership’s forward-looking vision. He said the milestone would drive further development of a maritime network ready for future demands. Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Group Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer of AD Ports Group, said the result follows years of work and strategic investment. He stressed efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote responsible environmental practices.
Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi links the public and private sectors, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, researchers and investors. It operates under the Integrated Transport Centre as an initiative of Abu Dhabi Maritime. The hub develops solutions tailored to future industry needs and promotes the emirate as a destination for maritime business. Abu Dhabi’s rise also supports the UAE’s broader economic reach, with its global FDI stock reaching $402.7 billion in 2025.