Dubai launches 'practical' maritime academy with simulator-based curriculum

Dubai residents interested in for maritime life and studies can now receive hands-on training for real-world challenges in lifelike environments — including full-mission bridge simulators, engine room mockups, and emergency response drills.

The newly launched Octanta Maritime Training Academy is designed to prepare students for a range of careers — from superyacht operations to commercial shipping and offshore energy.

The academy emphasises hands-on, simulator-based training designed to replicate real-life maritime situations. Its practical curriculum features advanced bridge and engine room simulators, realistic safety drill environments, and courses structured to meet international maritime standards.

“We train for the real world, not just the classroom,” Aleksei Makarov, founder of the academy and CEO of Octanta Holding, told Khaleej Times. “There’s a real need for maritime education that reflects the unique demands of this region — and prepares professionals to act under pressure, not just pass exams," he added.

Aleksei Makarov

Industry gaps

The maritime sector is undergoing rapid transformation, with increasing demands for technical competence, safety, and adaptability. Yet, traditional education models often lag behind.

“Many programs today are either too theoretical or not tailored to the realities of modern vessels,” said Makarov, adding: “At Octanta, we focus on building operational skills using real-world scenarios. This includes responding to emergencies, understanding complex machinery, and navigating in high-risk zones.”

According to Makarov, Dubai’s status as a global logistics and maritime hub made it the natural base for the academy, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for innovation and sustainability.

Experience beyond textbooks

Leading the academy’s practical programmes is Captain Zeljan Banovac, a veteran with more than 30 years of global maritime experience, including voyages to the Antarctic and Amazon.

“Today’s seafarers face automation, environmental pressures, and evolving compliance rules,” said Banovac. “You can’t prepare for that with theory alone. Hands-on training is essential. It builds reflexes, resilience, and sound decision-making.”

Captain Zeljan Banovac

Students at Octanta train in high-fidelity simulation systems — including Wärtsilä bridge simulators — which replicate real-life conditions such as propulsion failures or challenging weather scenarios.

“We teach for performance, not just for grades,” Banovac added. “What you do in a simulator should hold up offshore — because that’s where it really matters.”

Rising demand

The academy’s launch coincides with a surge in interest in maritime professions, particularly among young professionals and career switchers in the UAE.

“People are looking for careers that are mobile, impactful, and future-proof,” said Makarov. “The maritime sector offers all of that — and we’re seeing increased demand in yachting, offshore logistics, and green shipping.”

Sectors like superyacht management, LNG operations, and offshore energy are facing talent shortages, particularly in the MENA region — a gap Octanta hopes to address by training adaptable, tech-savvy professionals.

“This isn’t just about jobs,” Makarov noted. “It’s about preparing people for a life at sea — with all the leadership, discipline, and judgment that requires.”

Flexible enrolment, global recognition

Octanta offers an easy enrollment process via its website and mobile app, making it convenient for aspiring mariners to begin their training journey. The academy provides a variety of courses for both beginners and seasoned professionals, ranging from 3 to 10 days.

Courses include internationally certified STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) programmes, safety and security training, simulator-based navigation and engineering instruction, and technical upskilling. All are aligned with International Maritime Organisation (Imo) and UAE maritime regulations, ensuring global recognition of certifications.

Graduates also receive career support, including job placement assistance in yachting, offshore energy, and commercial shipping — helping them launch or advance their careers in the global maritime industry.