The winter of 2025 brought a new location to the IMB experiential learning program, the United Arab Emirates. The IMB department sent a group of 13 students, led by Captain Ashok Pandey, to Abu Dhabi and Dubai for three weeks. The trip was filled with hands-on learning of maritime business in another part of the world, networking, cultural enhancement, and an exchange of knowledge. 

Week one of this trip was cantered in Abu Dhabi, where we were hosted by the Abu Dhabi Ports group. Led by Captain Varun Rawat, at Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, we were greeted with open arms by all maritime clusters, with tours, presentations, lectures, and open forum discussions. We worked closely with the cadets from the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy to create a presentation of our assigned maritime cluster, and the differences of perspective from America, to the CEO’s and leaders of AD ports group. 

This week was also filled with cultural experiences such as a visit to the Grand Mosque, a tour of the Abu Dhabi Louvre, camel rides, and life long connections with the locals. 

The rest of our time was spent in the center of Dubai! This was such a great city to experience as they are quickly growing and developing as a major maritime business hub. We visited several ship yards and terminals, such as Albwardy Damen,  the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, the  U.S. Consulate General, and the McQuilling Partners, Inc. These companies graciously hosted us and were generous enough to share their knowledge and connect us to an amazing side of the industry.  At the end of our time we were invited to attend the Ship Tech. conference where we listened to presentations and discussions from global maritime leaders from around the world, networked, and presented Massachusetts Maritime Academy on a global stage. 

Dubai was filled with local connections and opened our eyes to an amazing culture. We had the opportunity to go on desert safaris, visit the Baurj Khalifa, spend time at their gorgeous beaches, shop at the Global Village and Dubai Mall, experience the botanical gardens, and so much more. 

The life long friendships, and memories, created on this trip will stick with all of us throughout the rest of our lives. The knowledge and hands-on experience we received will carry on with us through our career journeys. Most importantly the connections we made in the UAE will undoubtedly help us throughout and after our time at MMA.