The Dubai Maritime Authority, part of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, has reiterated the importance of adhering strictly to safe navigation practices and maritime safety guidelines for all boat owners, operators, captains, and crew members engaged in marine activities, including water sports, within Dubai. This is aimed at ensuring the safety of lives and property while preserving the marine environment in Dubai.
This announcement was made through a directive issued to companies providing recreational marine services. The authority emphasized that this initiative aligns with its continuous commitment to enhancing maritime security by applying the highest international standards and practices in managing marine activities, thereby solidifying Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for safe and sustainable marine experiences. It underscored that following established regulations is a collective responsibility of all sea users.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority, stated that Dubai is actively developing a progressive maritime regulatory environment that balances legislative flexibility with strict adherence to international safety standards. He noted that compliance with safe navigation rules reflects the awareness and responsibility characteristic of the emirate’s maritime community, which in turn boosts the confidence of both residents and visitors in various marine activities. Furthermore, he mentioned that the authority places significant emphasis on cultivating a safety culture among all sea-goers by promoting adherence to designated marine activity zones, the use of safety equipment, speed limits, operational guidelines, and preparedness for emergencies to ensure a safe and sustainable maritime experience for everyone.
The Dubai Maritime Authority also shared that these awareness messages are supported by easily accessible educational materials that highlight safe boating behaviors and best practices to raise awareness and encourage compliance among diverse marine users.
Among the guidelines included are, but are not limited to, adherence to designated marine activity zones, refraining from entering restricted areas without official permission, avoiding the use of unlicensed or expired marine vessels, and being prepared to present valid licenses and documentation to authorities upon request. Additionally, the authority urged users to maintain safe speeds, avoid reckless or disruptive behaviors, operate navigation lights in low visibility conditions, and wear life jackets during water sports activities.
The authority stressed the necessity of displaying the permit issued by the Dubai Maritime Authority, which includes essential maritime safety guidelines for conducting such activities. Companies are required to prominently showcase and clarify this information for marine users.
The Dubai Maritime Authority continues to implement extensive on-ground and digital awareness campaigns to promote a culture of safety and responsibility, encouraging safe and organized use of marine facilities to support marine environmental sustainability and enhance Dubai’s status as a global maritime destination characterized by safety, efficiency, and excellence.