Captain Sahar Rasti, the UAE’s first female ship master and a trailblazer in the regional maritime industry, received the Benchmark for Maritime Industry Excellence Award at The Maritime Standard (TMS) Awards 2025, the leading event for sector recognition. This honor celebrates her outstanding leadership, commitment to excellence, and unwavering support for women’s empowerment in the maritime sector.
The esteemed event, held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and Chairman of Dubai Airports and Emirates Airline, took place on October 29, 2025, at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. It gathered over 1000 senior executives, decision-makers, and industry leaders from the Middle East, India, and beyond.
Captain Sahar Rasti expressed: “I am thrilled to receive this award, which signifies not just a personal success but also what Emirati women can achieve with equal opportunities. Our nation stands as a symbol of progress, and I hope this recognition inspires young women to pursue their passions in the maritime sector.”
Captain Rasti’s success represents a key milestone in the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion across all sectors. As the first Emirati woman to command a ship, her accomplishments highlight the UAE’s vision to cultivate local talent, promote sustainability, and establish itself as a global leader in maritime innovation.
The Maritime Standard Awards 2025 recognized excellence in 25 categories, including shipping, logistics, ship repair, offshore services, and marine technology. The event was hosted by Yalda Hakim, a renowned international correspondent, and featured a keynote by Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of Adnoc Logistics and Services, emphasizing the UAE’s leadership in sustainable and tech-driven maritime practices.
Trevor Pereira, managing director of The Maritime Standard, remarked: “These awards not only honor success but also aim to drive excellence. This year’s event spotlighted innovative concepts, promising initiatives, and outstanding performance. As the region advances its maritime infrastructure and digital port systems, events like The Maritime Standard Awards are crucial in cementing its status as a global maritime leader.”
Over the last 12 years, The Maritime Standard Awards has solidified its status as one of the most esteemed annual gatherings in the global maritime calendar by recognizing excellence and fostering a resilient, sustainable maritime future. Captain Sahar Rasti’s achievement embodies this mission, showcasing that the UAE’s maritime future is shaped by leaders of exceptional talent, resilience, and vision.
