Khaleej Times, Monday, May 15, 2023 | Shawwal 25, 1444
Dubai announces new rules for renting out jet skis, watercraft
Emirates:
The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) has issued new regulations and requirements
for companies and individuals involved in the activity of renting jet skis and
watercraft used in water sports.
Under Circular No. 13 of the Year 2023 issued on May 11, the authority made it
mandatory for all companies renting jet skis and watercraft to mount tracking
and remote-control systems.
The newly-established authority responsible for regulating, coordinating, and
supervising all aspects of the emirate’s maritime sector asked companies to
programme the jet skis in accordance with the restricted speed zones.
In addition, the authority said trainers must hold a training certificate for
the safe use of personal watercraft designed or watersports. The licence would
be issued by the Dubai Maritime Authority.
All companies must comply with the new regulations before October 31, 2023, to
avoid penalties.
“In case of failure to comply with the above, after the deadline, the authority
shall take all necessary actions according to the penalties and fines,” it said.
In line with Law No. 3 of 2023 on Dubai Maritime Authority, issued by His
Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime
Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the DMA has been tasked with introducing
new regulations that strengthen the sector and adopt global standards. The new
directive, which came into effect on May 1, 2023, will provide the
DMA with a clear data-led understanding of local sea container charges and
associated practices.
“As custodians of the emirate’s maritime sector, we are keen to continuously
develop the industry and enhance our partnership with the private sector,” said
Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, executive director of Dubai
Maritime Authority.
DMA earlier this month issued Directive No. 1 of 2023 on transparency of local
sea container charges in Dubai, requiring all service providers to declare their
local sea container charges to the DMA, through the secure Dubai Trade Single
Window Portal.
All service providers are prohibited from increasing their existing sea
container charges in any way. A service provider may increase its sea container
charges strictly to reflect new or increased authority, Port Operator or
government charges, provided such an increase does not include any charges or
amounts for their account.