In a concerted effort to enhance maritime safety, the Dubai Police and the Dubai Maritime Authority have executed a comprehensive inspection campaign targeting jet skis. This initiative has resulted in the issuance of 431 maritime offenses and the seizure of 41 non-compliant jet skis. The joint operation underscores the commitment of both authorities to ensuring a safe and secure marine environment for all users.
The Marine Ports Police Center, in collaboration with the Dubai Maritime Authority, has recently launched an intensive inspection campaign on jet skis, leading to significant regulatory enforcement. Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, emphasized that “the joint cooperation among all entities reflects our strategic vision to make Dubai a leading model in maritime safety.” He added that this initiative is pivotal for fostering a secure and sustainable environment for all sea users, supporting economic development, and maintaining the emirate’s reputation as a global maritime hub.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed further elaborated on the paramount importance of user safety in marine activities, stating, “We are continually developing organizational and technical frameworks to ensure compliance with regulations and enhance the culture of responsibility among sea-goers.” This collaborative effort aims to create a safer and more sustainable maritime environment in Dubai.
The Director of the Marine Ports Police Center, Brigadier Dr. Hassan Suhail, outlined the main objectives of the campaign, which include enhancing maritime safety and reducing incidents caused by reckless driving. The campaign also aims to deter wrongdoers, thereby boosting public confidence in the police’s ability to maintain safety in marine areas. He highlighted that the infractions identified spanned various violations, such as expired jet ski licenses, entry into prohibited areas like swimming zones and hotel beaches, and failure to wear life jackets. Other violations involved minors operating jet skis and overloaded vessels, among others.
Brigadier Suhail noted that the violations were distributed across different beach areas in Dubai. He pointed out that the fine for operating a jet ski with an expired license is set at AED 1,000, while failure to wear a life jacket or helmet can also incur a fine of AED 1,000. Additionally, disturbing other users or encroaching on restricted areas can lead to fines up to AED 2,000, along with other penalties.
Emphasizing the readiness of the maritime security patrols to ensure safe navigation and monitor infractions, Brigadier Suhail confirmed the availability of marine rescue units to handle emergencies around the clock. This commitment aligns with the directives of the Dubai Police General Command to safeguard community members and ensure their safety.
Both the Dubai Police and the Dubai Maritime Authority have urged jet ski operators to adhere to regulations, ensuring the availability of safety equipment such as life jackets and conducting regular maintenance checks. They encourage users to maintain safe distances from private and tourist vessels, adhere to specified speed limits of 5 to 7 nautical miles, and avoid overloaded jets for safety reasons.
The authorities also advised jet ski owners to regularly inspect and maintain their watercraft, monitor weather conditions before heading out to sea, and utilize the “Sail Safely” service available through the Dubai Police smart application to ensure a swift response in emergencies. For urgent situations, members of the public are encouraged to contact 999.