Three Emirati women have become graduates as masters (captain) of 24m vessels from the Maritime Training Centre at Abu Dhabi Ports in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The students Sahar Rasti, Fatema Al Khaja and Mahra Al Shamsi represent the first three women in the country to graduate as captains of 24m vessels from the centre.

They were conferred with ‘Certificate of Competency Master of Coastal Waters up to 24m Vessels’ along with ten other students after completing a six-and-a-half month long theoretical, as well as practical training and coursework.

The course is specifically designed to train Emiratis in the skills required to become sea captains and is in accordance with UAE’s vision to empower women.

During the course, the students attended ten weeks of classes and spent four months at sea to demonstrate their practical experience.

Lecturers from the Australian Maritime College conducted the training, while the Australian Marine Safety Authority, the official representative of the International Maritime Organisation in Australia, issued the certification.

Abu Dhabi Ports CEO Juma Shamisi said: “The UAE possesses immense national talent and we at Abu Dhabi Ports are eager to extend every opportunity to our young women and men to develop their capabilities and fulfil their potential.

“That these young women have graduated through this intensive course sets an example for future generations and shines a light on the career opportunities available in the maritime industry.”

In addition, Fawziya Al Dhaheri became the first Emirati woman to successfully pass the Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) IALA course.

Completion of the course has also enabled Dhaheri to become the first woman UAE to work as VTS operator within Abu Dhabi Marine Services ‘SAFEEN’.

Image: First three Emirati women graduate as captains of 24m vessels. Photo: courtesy of Abu Dhabi Ports.