All foreign-flagged marine vessels entering Dubai waters should operate the Automatic Identification System (AIS) regardless of their size, type, or classification.

Every year, thousands of vessels arrive at and depart from Dubai ports, carrying goods, tourists, and vital resources.

That is why the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) emphasizes to all concerned parties the mandatory installation and continuous operation of the AIS on all locally registered commercial marine vessels, including tourism vessels, floating restaurants, and all vessels bearing (DT) and (DC) plates, as well as all foreign-flagged marine vessels entering Dubai waters.

Dubai Maritime Authority has emphasized the importance of AIS for vessels operating within its jurisdiction with a circular titled “The Mandatory Installation and Continuous Operation of Automatic Identification System (AIS) on Vessels in the Emirate of Dubai.”

Shipowners, operators and maritime agents must ensure the continuous installation and operation of the AIS when the vessel is moored at a marina, anchored, or navigating within the Emirate’s waters, in accordance with internationally recognized standards.

In event that the conditions are not met, the maritime authority has all the powers to take the action against anyone who violates the applicable regulations and regulations and will impose the fines it deems appropriate in this regard.

“In the event of non-compliance with the requirements set forth in this Circular after the lapse of the grace period, the vessel will fail the technical inspection required for registration and licensing, and the necessary permits for its operation will not be issued,” the DMA – Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation said in a circular on June 26.

The circular shall be effective from the date of its issuance, and all concerned parties must comply with the requirements within thirty days from the effective date.