The Dubai Maritime Authority, part of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, has announced the launch of a licensing service for operating recreational marine vessels. This service is aimed at visitors holding licenses issued by member countries of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which includes Gulf Cooperation Council nations, Europe, the United States, and several other countries with internationally recognized licenses. The initiative is designed to enhance the experience of Dubai’s visitors and facilitate their engagement in maritime leisure activities.
Alongside this introduction, the Dubai Maritime Authority has released a comprehensive and updated guide for regulating the licensing of marine crew in the emirate. This guide comes in accordance with Administrative Resolution No. (5) of 2024, which details the requirements and conditions necessary for obtaining licenses to operate marine vessels. Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority, stated, “We believe in the necessity of providing a flexible marine environment that meets the aspirations of international visitors and allows them to enjoy an exceptional maritime experience within Dubai’s waters.” He further mentioned that the release of this guide reflects the authority’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety, ensuring the competencies of marine crews, and standardizing practices in line with local regulations and international best practices.
He continued, “This initiative enhances the maritime experience for visitors and residents in Dubai, enabling them to participate in recreational, touristic, and sporting activities in a safe and organized environment. It reinforces the emirate’s status as a comprehensive global maritime destination that blends modernity, diversity, and quality services, while also supporting the sustainable growth of Dubai’s maritime sector and its vital role in the local economy.”
The updated guide clearly outlines the professional qualifications, practical experience, and medical and technical standards required for crew members. It also provides details on the application, examination, and review processes through available electronic systems and services. Additionally, it includes specific procedures for license renewal or modification and mutual recognition of licenses issued by accredited maritime authorities.
In this context, the authority has confirmed its recognition of all international marine licenses issued by national maritime administrations of IMO member countries, including GCC nations and several other globally recognized nations, as long as these licenses meet the established criteria and requirements. This initiative grants qualified holders of foreign licenses the opportunity to obtain a marine vessel operating license issued by the Dubai Maritime Authority through streamlined electronic processes, starting with the submission of a copy of their national license for review and validation, followed by checking its validity and compliance with standards, leading to the issuance of a local license.