In a significant move to solidify the UAE’s position as a leading maritime destination globally, foreign yachts in Abu Dhabi and Dubai can now benefit from standardized and streamlined administrative procedures for transit between the two emirates. The new initiative features mutual recognition of sailing permits issued in either emirate, facilitating yacht movement and enhancing maritime mobility.
This mutual recognition emerged from a series of coordination meetings between Abu Dhabi Maritime and Dubai Maritime Authority, along with the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation and other relevant local and federal entities, including the National Guard and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. This reflects a shared commitment to unify efforts in supporting the integration and growth of the maritime sector within the UAE, aligned with ongoing leadership directives aimed at elevating performance to the highest levels of competitiveness both regionally and internationally through collaboration with all stakeholders in the development of the nation’s maritime sector.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of Dubai Maritime Authority, stated: “Dubai takes pride in sharing its successful experience in facilitating yacht visits, and we are wholeheartedly committed to supporting this unified approach, which will undoubtedly enhance the UAE’s standing as a premier global maritime destination.”
Similarly, Captain Saif Al Muhairi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at Abu Dhabi Ports, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, noting that: “This initiative reflects our joint commitment to streamline maritime mobility and enhance the competitiveness of both emirates as global yacht destinations, as we continue our efforts to make our waters more enjoyable for visitors than ever before.”
Under the new initiative, sailing permits issued from either Abu Dhabi or Dubai will be accepted for transit between the two emirates. Furthermore, it relies on the Early Inquiry System (API) to gather data on vessels, crews, and passengers, avoiding redundant procedures during the sailing transition. It also eliminates local entry and exit formalities for visiting foreign yachts while traveling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The initiative will take effect at the beginning of January 2026, with notifications sent to maritime agents to act accordingly. This collaboration marks a new chapter in maritime cooperation within the UAE, enhancing a more cohesive and accommodating regulatory environment for foreign yachts.
Dubai Maritime Authority is the government entity responsible for overseeing the regulation, coordination, and supervision of all aspects of the maritime sector in Dubai. Established in 2007, it aims to monitor, develop, and promote maritime activities, providing a platform for excellence and quality through the advancement of regulations, policies, and guidelines in line with regional and global maritime developments across both commercial and recreational maritime services, thus enhancing the efficiency of infrastructure, operations, and logistics services, while boosting Dubai’s investment appeal on regional and international levels.
Working in collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport and its Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Maritime acts as the authority responsible for managing the waterways in the emirate. It implements a modern and user-friendly regulatory framework that supports the needs of both the recreational and commercial maritime communities. Additionally, it is developing advanced infrastructure and modern digital services to improve user experiences and enhance the maritime sector’s contribution to the social, cultural, and economic development of the emirate.