Dubai Now Lets Visitors Get Marine Vessel Licenses
- Publish date: Thursday، 21 August 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
New service makes it easier for visitors with international licenses to operate marine vessels in Dubai.
- Related articles
- Abu Dhabi To Build Region's Most Advanced Marine Conservation Ship
- Dubai Reefs: World’s Largest Marine Restoration Project Unveiled
- Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed Renames Maritime City
Dubai just launched a new service that allows visitors to get local licenses to operate pleasure marine vessels. The move, led by the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), is designed to make it easier for tourists and expats with international licenses to enjoy marine activities in Dubai’s waters.
Who’s Eligible
The service applies to visitors holding licenses issued by member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)—including GCC countries, the US, Europe, and other internationally recognized states.
Updated Crew Licensing Rules
Alongside this, Dubai rolled out a new manual for licensing marine vessel crews. It sets clear rules on qualifications, training, medical checks, and digital application processes. It also outlines how foreign licenses can be mutually recognized.
Streamlined and Digital
The process is fully electronic: applicants submit their existing national license, get it verified for compliance, and then receive a Dubai-issued marine license.