I hope to see Arab fleets take the lead globally and for our Arab region to become a global logistics hub by all standards.

Maritime Tickers posed just three questions ( 3 What's ? ! ) to an elite persons  in the maritime transport, ports, offshore, and logistics sectors. as a survey on the most important events of 2025 in the sector from his point of view, what events 2026 holds, and what he hopes will happen locally and globally in this vital strategic sector The fourth Exclusive Interview with Chief Engineer and Maritime Expert Fayez Nouni with Iyead Khalil 

By : Iyead Khalil 

What are the most important events in the maritime transport sector in 2025, in your opinion?

In my view, the most prominent maritime issues for 2025 focused on three main points. Foremost among them were the events in the Red Sea, which posed significant risks to the maritime sector and impacted global economies. Consumers and developing economies were the most affected.

The second most prominent event was the rapid developments in digitalization, artificial intelligence AI, smart ports, and the Internet of things, which have permeated all areas of maritime transport. This included the emergence of autonomous vessels, which have entered the testing phase.

 After the challenge of decarbonization was the most important event in 2025, accompanied by discussions, differing opinions, Following the intervention of the US President and the objections of the US, Saudi Arabia, and other countries to the carbon emissions law and the carbon pricing mechanism and the passage of the law has been postponed the  of the vote to 2026. Regarding emissions control, net-zero emissions came into effect in the European Union, and the Mediterranean region began to be considered net-zero. Furthermore, major international companies are increasingly relying on environmentally friendly alternative fuels, in line with the International Maritime Organization's decisions to achieve net-zero emissions.

Reliance on alternative fuels will expand significantly

What do you expect to see happening in the global shipping industry in 2026?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) will continue to push for net-zero emissions, especially given the failure of the 2025 referendum. Reliance on alternative fuels will also expand significantly, particularly with hundreds of orders already placed for new ships using these fuels.

I expect the return of shipping companies to the Red Sea to be a major event in 2026, despite the challenges and risks that remain. 

The problem of sailing around the Cape of Good Hope becomes a major dilemma and the continued reliance .where  its associated costs and time increases, is another key factor. The risk of Somali pirates resurfacing after years of relative calm is also a significant concern, adding to the risks and challenges in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Furthermore, the massive expansion of the shadow fleet, operating outside sanctions, poses environmental, insurance, and crew safety risks.

The pressure on decarbonization and stricter regulations for ships to comply with net-zero emissions standards will intensify, along with the growing demand for alternative fuels.

In my opinion, the most significant event in 2026 will be the increase in the number of electric, hybrid, and alternative-fuel vessels, as well as the greater use of artificial intelligence.

Syrian seafarers 

What do you hope to achieve in the fields of ports, maritime transport, and logistics, both in your country and globally?

I hope that Syrian seafarers will be provided with facilities and accepted by international companies, and that the restrictions and sanctions that limit their opportunities will be lifted, thus enhancing their effective participation in the maritime sector both locally and internationally. I hope to see Arab fleets take the lead globally and for our Arab region to become a global logistics hub by all standards.

Related : Exclusive : Dr. Mohammed Ismail :Global Maritime Transport Outlook for 2026

Fayez Nouni ,Chief Engineer, Syrian seafarers Arab fleets, (IMO) , Red Sea , Cape of Good Hope  carbon emissions law, smart ports,