Carola Uva August 16, 2024 In the UAE, maritime activities are regulated by distinct legal frameworks tailored to accommodate different types of vessels and demands of different shipowners and ship operators. While the rules for registering a commercial vessel are provided for by the UAE Federal Decree Law No. 43/2023 (the New Maritime Law), the rules for registering a yacht are quite different and are devolved to the maritime authority of each single Emirate. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the yacht registration process in the UAE, with a focus on the rules in force in the Emirate of Dubai. Dubai Maritime Authority (“DMA”) Dubai Maritime Authority (formerly known as “Dubai Maritime City Authority”) is responsible for licensing all maritime transport means in the Emirate of Dubai. It provides services to both individuals (UAE nationals and expatriates residing in the UAE) and companies seeking marine transport registration. DMA operates under Dubai Law No. 11/2010, which establishes rules for licensing, registration, and inspection of maritime transport means operating in the Emirate. Dubai Law No. 11/2010 has been subsequently implemented by Dubai Executive Council Decision No. 11/2013. According to the above-mentioned legal framework, “marine craft” is defined as “any craft operating in the Emirates’ waters for the transport of passengers or goods, whether for personal, commercial, sports or tourism purposes” (Art. 1 of Dubai Executive Council Decision No. 11/2013). Marine crafts registered and licensed in Dubai are therefore divided into four categories: Commercial marine crafts; Pleasure marine crafts (allocated for personal use, including those with engines (less than 12 meters, between 12 and 24 meters, and exceeding 24 meters in length) and those without engines (such as rowing boats and sailboats); Sports marine crafts (allocated for water sports); and Traditional wooden marine craft. Pleasure yacht registration procedure in Dubai To register a pleasure yacht in Dubai, yacht owners are required to submit the following documents to the DMA’s portal via an online application: Passport copy and Emirates ID copy of the yacht owner. Expatriates residing in the UAE must also provide (i) proof of total income of 20,000 AED and above; (ii) copy of partnership in commercial Dubai issued trade license; and (iii) copy of title deed for free hold property owners exempt from the residence law. For new marine craft: copy of marine craft builder certificate and proof of ownership or purchase invoice. For previously registered marine craft: copy of marine craft cancellation certificate and copy of sale agreement attested by the authorized entity. For imported marine craft: in addition to the above, a copy of customs clearance certificate issued by the competent authorities. For pleasure yacht over 35 feet, a confirmation certificate from an approved supplier for licensing VHF radio communication devices. An environmental specification certificate from ESMA for new petrol outboard marine engines. If applicable, a mortgaged marine craft deed between the mortgagor and the mortgagee. UAE yacht code certificates if the marine craft has a Load Line Length. Once these documents are submitted, the yacht must be inspected by DMA in order to verify that all technical requirements for passing the inspection are met. After passing the DMA’s technical inspection and upon issuance of a technical Inspection Report, the applicant is required to: Install of a safety and security transponder at the Coast Guard offices; Submit insurance details to the DMA portal; and Provide a valid technical inspection pass certificate; a 13-month valid insurance policy and a valid trailer registration or annual berth contract. Once these steps are completed (and within one working day assuming that all the required documents are satisficed), DMA will issue an electronic copy of the marine craft license and certificate. The yacht registration process in Dubai, overseen by the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), is comprehensive and detailed, ensuring that all marine crafts meet the necessary safety, security, and environmental standards. By following the prescribed steps and providing the required documentation to the DMA, yacht owners can efficiently navigate the registration process and obtain the necessary licenses. Our firm is well-equipped to assist yacht owners in this process, offering services that include collecting the necessary documents and submitting them to the DMA. By leveraging our expertise, yacht owners are ensured a smooth and hassle-free registration experience.
