New marine driver's license required in Dubai

The Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) has started implementing Resolution No. 2 of 2013 for Marine Craft Driving License as part of the efforts to regulate local maritime sector.

The application of the new resolution requires licensing for crew on personal, business, sports, tourism and recreational marine craft, including small and large-sized leisure craft, commercial marine vessels and traditional wooden dhows.

According to the resolution, it is prohibited to use any marine craft within Dubai's territorial waters unless s/he holds a certified license from Dubai Maritime City Authority.
All applicants must be medically fit and have the theoretical and practical knowledge and expertise to drive light marine vessels, abras and leisure crafts.

Crew members on commercial and traditional wooden dhows must be completely familiar with the marine radar and communication systems and navigation maps, in addition to being able to use the various equipments for safety, first-aid, public safety, fire-fighting and water pollution.
Amer Ali, Executive Director, Dubai Maritime City Authority, said, "Regulating and developing the local maritime sector is top priority for DMCA, which is why we regularly introduce regulations and legislations to address local requirements in line with best international practices. The application of Resolution No. 2 of 2013 for marine crew licensing reaffirms the efforts aimed at integrating all aspects of maritime safety and operational efficiency across local waters, in cooperation with the parties concerned."

"His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai welcomed the maritime driving license initiative during the Dubai International Boat Show 2013 as he is keen to improve the local maritime industry and position Dubai as one of the leading international maritime hubs.

“The implementation of the marine driving license issuance policy covering commercial, leisure and traditional marine craft and boats is key to establishing an integrated regulatory framework aimed at maintaining secure navigation and the highest levels of maritime safety across local and regional waters," added Ali.

The move is in line with the best international practices and the highest levels of maritime safety, environmental security and safe navigation, under Resolution No. 11 of 2013, and as part of the implementation of Law No 11 of 2010 for licensing of marine craft in the emirate of Dubai.

The recent decision confirms DMCA's ongoing drive to develop a well-defined regulatory framework aimed at regulating, developing and promoting the maritime industry, complementing the Maritime Sector Strategy to strengthen Dubai's leading position as a top international maritime destination.

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