DMA (PCFC) issues circular 16/2025 on 26th Jun2 2025mandating installation and continuous operation of AIS on all vessel in Dubai Waters by 25th July 2025

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance safety of navigation and improve the efficiency of regulating maritime operations and activities within the waters of the Emirate of Dubai, and in accordance to the applicable legislations of Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), DMA emphasizes to all concerned parties
the mandatory installation and continuous operation of the Automatic Identification System (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, regardless of their size, type, or classification.
Tender Boats operating onboard the subject vessels are exempt from the mandatory AIS requirement, provided they operate exclusively in support of the main vessel and do not independently navigate Dubai waters
Accordingly, all vessels mentioned above are required to be equipped with Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices that are properly installed, fully and continuously operational, whether the vessel is moored at a marina, anchored, or navigating within the Emirate’s waters, in accordance with internationally recognized standards. 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 DMA also reserves the full right to take all necessary actions against any party found to be in violation of the applicable legislations. Appropriate fines will be imposed as deemed necessary in this regard.
This Circular shall be effective from the date of its issuance, and all concerned parties must comply with the requirements within thirty (30) days from the effective date. We appreciate your constant cooperation with us and your efforts to serve the public interest and optimize the use of resources and infrastructure in the Dubai Emirate.
For any related queries and support, you may contact:
Email: info@pcfc.ae
Contact Centre: 800990