Emma arrives

Emma Maersk, the world’s largest container vessel, made her maiden call at Jebel Ali yesterday. It is also the first time that a container vessel of this size transits the Arabian Gulf.

“We believe the call of Emma Maersk is a great opportunity to celebrate the success story of Dubai’s merchant community,” said Robert Uggla, Managing Director for Maersk UAE. “UAE is an important market for Maersk Line on par with other large markets such as India, which has a far greater population. We have been in this country since 1959 working closely with shippers, the government and the port to develop Dubai into a re-export hub.” The Emma Maersk

Emma Maersk and her seven sister vessels can each carry more than 11,000 TEUs. They are designed to offer the most environmentally friendly transportation solution available, the company said in a statement.

“These days we all face considerable challenges due to the economic crisis. However, Maersk Line remains committed to our customers and partners in Dubai and UAE,” added Uggla. “We see the long-term potential of UAE and the region, with many industrial and petrochemical projects on stream, and we have no doubt that Jebel Ali will continue to play an important role in our global network for many years to come.”

Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, added:

“Jebel Ali Port is proud to receive Emma Maersk on its maiden voyage. Her arrival shows how efficiently the port can handle ships of any capacity and size. DP World, UAE Region is constantly upgrading its facilities to meet our customers’ needs and to maintain Dubai’s status as the region’s premier trading hub.”