A Brainchild of Reputable Members
of the Shipping Agents.

Objectives of the Association
To discuss & solve issues arising in our industry.

Existing Members
To promote best practice amongst our group.

Association Committees
Make decisions, consistent with the functions of DSAA.

Responsibility of Members
To act in the best interests of the organization.
About Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA).
DSAA is a brainchild of reputable members of the Shipping Agents’ community in Dubai who, with the support of the Director of the Department of Ports & Customs, identified the need for a joint representation of shipping agents doing business in the ports of Dubai.

DSAA Celebrates 25 Years of Maritime Excellence and Unity.
The Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA) proudly commemorates 25 years of excellence,
having been established on the 1st May 1999 with the vision of uniting the shipping agents’
community under a common platform.
DSAA started its operation on 1st May 2000 in Port Rashid area courtesy DPW.
Later our office was moved to Dubai Customs.
Since its inception, DSAA has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and dialogue among
industry players, while also serving as an important link between shipping agents and key
government entities such as ports, customs, and other regulatory authorities.
Its Executive Committee, composed of experienced professionals, diligently steers the Association’s
activities, ensuring that the interests of its members are effectively represented and that the highest
standards of professionalism are maintained.
The Association’s Legal and Technical Committee further strengthens this foundation by promoting
education, technical awareness, and continuous professional development, keeping members abreast
of the latest advancements and regulatory changes shaping the maritime sector.
Beyond professional development, DSAA recognizes the importance of community and wellbeing,
and through its active Recreation Committee, organizes sports, social, and wellness activities that
encourage camaraderie and balance among its members.
Over the past 25 years, DSAA has not only strengthened the voice of shipping agents in Dubai but
has also contributed meaningfully to the growth and modernization of the maritime sector in the UAE.
DSAA has been actively involved with FONASBA (Federation of Association of National Ship
Agents and Brokers based in UK) and have been NRO – National Registration Organisation
in M.E. and Indian Sub-Continent etc. on behalf of BIC - PARIS.
As it marks this remarkable milestone, DSAA renews its commitment to being a dynamic and
progressive force, dedicated to supporting its members, strengthening industry ties, and contributing
to Dubai’s continued standing as a global maritime hub.
We would not have reached this milestone without support from the era of our dynamic FIRST
President – Mr. Saadi Al Rais to the robust leadership of the current President – Mr. Salah Sharaf,
all our past and present Board Members, Members of Legal Committee and Recreation Committee,
who have been a constant force behind the Association’s success.
I am proud to announce that DSAA started with 12 founding members and as of today our
Membership fold has reached 112 and hope to increase more by the year-end.
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED UN-STINTED SUPPORT
AND LOOK FORWARD TO REACH ANOTHER MILESTONE!

Mrs. Nayana Nandkumar.
General Manager Dubai Shipping Agents Association
Press Release
DSAA General Manager Ms. Nayana Nandkumar Recognized with the Distinguished IMC Honorary Doctorate Leadership Excellence Award for Her Significant Contributions to Shipping and Logistics
Dubai: On May 2nd, 2024, the International Maritime Club (IMC) recognized the outstanding leadership and
notable contributions of Mrs. Nayana Nandkumar, the General Manager of the Dubai Shipping Agents Association (DSAA), at a ceremony held at the Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel in Dubai, UAE.
Mrs. Nandkumar was honored with the esteemed IMC Honorary Doctorate Leadership Excellence Award.
The IMC is a renowned organization committed to promoting unity and advancement in the global maritime community and the oil & gas industry for nearly two decades. It collaborates with reputable academic institutions and universities to enhance the professional qualifications of its members and build industry recognition.
The award, which celebrated the accomplishments of distinguished professionals in the Marine and Oil & Gas associations, was presented to Mrs. Nayana Nandkumar by Sir Sohan Roy, the respected Chairman & CEO of the Aries Group of Companies and the Founder and President of the International Maritime Club.
Mrs. Nandkumar, apart from her role at DSAA, serves as a board member of Women in Logistics & Transport M.E., an organization that advocates for women's achievements in the industry. She also holds the position of Deputy Regional Vice President M.E. & ISC for FONASBA, contributing her expertise towards shaping international shipping policy.
Her influence stretches to the JA Seafarers Centre (JASC), where she is a board member, and she also serves as the Agent in M.E. for Bureau International des Container - Paris, a worldwide leader in container transportation. Her extensive roles reflect her unwavering dedication to the industry.
This prestigious recognition from the International Maritime Club celebrates Mrs. Nandkumar’s remarkable contributions to the Shipping and Logistics sector through her work with the Dubai Shipping Agents Association. This honor is expected to further fuel her commitment to making valuable contributions.


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