Eng. Kamal Al Junaidi, the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), was appointed as the Chair of the International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) Advisory Committee on the 9th of June 2025. This marks a historic milestone, as Eng. Al Junaidi became the first Saudi and Arab Chair to assume this prestigious role where he chaired the IMSO Advisory Committee’s 51st session from the 9th – 12th June 2025.
IMSO is an intergovernmental organization that works closely with international partners, including the IMO, to ensure that communication infrastructure supporting maritime navigation and emergency response is reliable, accessible, and compliant with global standards. Saudi Arabia has been a part of IMSO since 1983 and has always played a significant role in supporting maritime safety and security within IMSO meetings. The IMSO Advisory Committee operates within IMSO to provide strategic guidance and technical oversight on key issues such as the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), the Long-Range Identification and Tracking system (LRIT), and the responsible financial and procedural management of the Organization.
Kamal Al Junaidi’s role in IMSO comes and a vital time where technology is undergoing rapid change in the maritime industry signaling a key turning point for navigational systems. Eng. Junaidi has a wealth of experience in the maritime industry and brings it to bear in his new position, working to bring all member states together in collaboration and discourse. Throughout the meeting, the chair was able to foster positive communication between the IMSO member states on issues surrounding the oversight of communication systems used in maritime safety and search and rescue operations among other areas.
Al Junaidi's appointment reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in international maritime affairs and commitment to supporting safe and secure global shipping operations through innovation and strategic cooperation. The appointment of Eng. Kamal Al Junaidi as IMSO AC Chair not only highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to global maritime safety but also acts as a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s expanding leadership role on the international maritime stage, as well as highlighting the Kingdom’s ongoing vision to create a safer and stronger maritime industry for all.
