China Classification Society (CCS) was recently invited to visit the Fujairah Free Zone Authority. The meeting brought together Sharief Habib Al Awadhi, Director General of the Fujairah Free Zone Authority; Ou Boqian, Consul General of the Chinese Consulate General in Dubai; and representatives from COSCO SHIPPING (West Asia) and CCS. Discussions centred on the current international shipping landscape, regional development opportunities, and ways to deepen bilateral cooperation.

Source: CCS

Fujairah’s strategic position

Located on the eastern coast of the UAE and adjacent to the Strait of Hormuz, Fujairah serves as a vital gateway connecting the markets of Asia, Europe, and Africa. It has grown into a major global marine fuel supply centre and a regional shipping and logistics hub. Against the backdrop of shifting international economic and trade dynamics and global supply chain adjustments, its strategic importance and development potential have become increasingly prominent.

A shared vision for cooperation

During the exchange, Sharief Habib Al Awadhi recalled his visit to China in 2002 and provided an overview of the Fujairah Free Zone’s development. Currently home to more than 700 enterprises – accounting for approximately 75% of Fujairah’s trade volume – the Free Zone maintains strong cooperation with Chinese enterprises in manufacturing, logistics, and industrial investment.

Consul General Ou Boqian highlighted the growing presence of Chinese enterprises in the UAE, noting that over 1,000 Chinese companies are now investing and operating in the country. She expressed hope that both sides would further deepen cooperation in port construction, logistics and transportation, and industrial investment, working towards a long？term, stable, and all？weather partnership.

CCS’s commitment and expertise

Lu Wei, Survey Manager at CCS Dubai Branch, introduced CCS’s global service network, technical capabilities, and the outcomes of cooperation with UAE maritime authorities. In response to the needs of Chinese shipowners and shipping companies, CCS offered recommendations on port infrastructure development and ship repair and maintenance capabilities. He also reaffirmed CCS’s commitment to fully leveraging its technical strengths and bridging role to actively promote deeper cooperation in port construction, ship services, green shipping, energy security, and industrial investment – contributing to the stability and smooth functioning of international industrial and supply chains.

Looking ahead

All participants agreed that the foundation for China？Fujairah cooperation is solid and holds broad prospects. Moving forward, they will further strengthen practical cooperation in shipping, logistics, and energy, and jointly promote the green, smart, and sustainable development of the regional shipping industry. CCS will continue to leverage its technical expertise and platform to contribute to deepening China？UAE maritime cooperation.