Recognition for Container Shipping Heroes and Other Logistics Notables at Freight Awards

MIDDLE EAST – Last night (October 29) saw a mixed bag from the world’s container shipping, logistics and freight providers recognised as winners of the annual Lloyds List Middle East and Indian Subcontinent Awards were announced at a ceremony at the Grand Hyatt in Dubai. The awards aim to celebrate achievement in the regions maritime industry with Capt J. C. Anand, Chairman Emeritus and Advisor, Indian Register of Shipping, picking up the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Other noteworthy winners of this year’s awards include GAC which secured the accolade in the Logistics category for the third time in four years, prompting Lars Bergstrom, GAC’s Group Vice President, Middle East to say:

“We are delighted to be among the winners on these prestigious awards again. The Middle East and Indian Subcontinents are key markets for us, and GAC is committed to providing excellent logistical support to clients and creating tailored solutions for specific needs.”

Mobile satellite communications company Thuraya Telecommunications collected the innovation award for its Thuraya SatSleeve, a satellite adaptor for the iPhone that enables maritime and offshore users to stay connected from remote locations outside of terrestrial networks with their iPhone. The award judges recognised the SatSleeve’s ability to keep seafarers in touch with their loved ones as well as facilitating vital business communications for officers and crew when operating outside coverage of terrestrial networks. In selecting Thuraya for the award, the judging panel noted:

“The winner of this highly competitive award has created what has been described as the missing link in crew and business communications at sea. As such, this company has improved the quality of life for seafarers immeasurably, helping them keep in contact with their families, friends and colleagues from anywhere on the globe.”  

A special mention goes to the Captain and crew of the Yantian Express who won the Seafarer of the Year Award. The Yantian Express was first to arrive at the stricken MOL Comfort and picked up her crew. The other winners are as follows:

Shipyard of the Year – ASRY

Ship Operator Award – Blue Lines Shipping

Port Operator Award – Abu Dhabi Ports Company

Environment Award – Kuwait Oil Company (Artificial Coral Reef Colony)

Training Award – AMET University

Safety Award – Vadinar Oil Terminal

Classification Society Award – ABS

Maritime Lawyer of the Year Award – Holman Fenwick Willan

Maritime Services Award – Sharaf Shipping Agency

Offshore and Energy Award – Topaz Energy and Marine

Newsmaker of the Year – Ahmad Bin Hamad al-Nuami, Chief Executive, APICORP

Photo: Meena Mathews, GAC’s Regional Manager P&I Middle East accepting the Logistics Award.