APM Terminals Bahrain, the official operator of Khalifa Bin Salman Port, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Port and Maritime Affairs (PMA) to launch the VTMS National Employment Programme (NEP), aimed at training, certifying, and employing Bahraini nationals in Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMS).
The agreement was signed on 6 May 2026 in the presence of senior officials from both parties, including Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director of APM Terminals Bahrain, Rahim Ali Abbas, Head of People Function, Isa Mohammed Al-Qetami, Chief Government & Security Affairs Officer, and Farooq Zuberi, Chief Financial Officer. Representatives from Port and Maritime Affairs included H.E. Mr. Bader Hood Al-Mahmood, Undersecretary of Ports and Maritime Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Yusuf Al-Merbati, Assistant Undersecretary for Maritime Affairs, and Mr. Mayas Almutaz Al-Agha, Assistant Undersecretary of Ports Affairs.
The initiative formalizes a strategic partnership between APM Terminals Bahrain and PMA to support the development of Bahraini talent in the maritime sector through a structured two-year programme aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030 and the National Employment Programme.
Under the programme, six Bahraini nationals will undergo specialized training and operational development in Vessel Traffic Management Systems, leading to the internationally recognized IALA VTS Operator C0103 certification, ensuring alignment with global maritime standards.
The programme combines early familiarization within the vessel traffic control tower environment, specialized training delivered through an IMO-accredited maritime academy, and structured on-the-job experience at APM Terminals Bahrain. As part of the programme, participants will also complete an intensive five-week training course in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports Academy to strengthen operational readiness and professional capabilities. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to support sustainable employment opportunities for Bahraini talent and strengthen public-private collaboration in developing the Kingdom’s maritime and logistics sectors, while creating long-term career pathways in advanced maritime operations.
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