The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), under the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, has announced a stellar performance for 2024, exceeding expectations across key maritime indicators and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for maritime innovation, sustainability, and investment.
In a statement, Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, called the 2024 results a “significant milestone” in the emirate’s journey toward global maritime leadership. He credited the achievement to ongoing efforts to develop world-class infrastructure, ensure regulatory excellence, and promote innovation and environmental sustainability.
Key Growth Highlights
- Marine Vessel Registrations rose to 7,738, marking a 14.4% increase from 2023.
- Certified Marine Crew Members climbed to 12,226, up 22.8%, reflecting strong investor and operator confidence.
- Off-shore Maritime Permits issued surged by 35.3%, reaching 18,058, covering fueling, anchoring, and licensing services.
- Marina Berths now total 4,151 across 19 marinas, enhancing Dubai’s marine leisure infrastructure.
- Foreign Yacht Visits increased from 68 in 2023 to 89 in 2024, thanks to simplified procedures, luxury marina offerings, and the Golden Visa initiative for mega yacht owners.
Regulatory and Safety Enhancements
Dubai introduced three key regulatory decisions in 2024:
- Mandatory technical inspections for marine vessels
- Safe manning requirements for vessel operations
- Updated crew licensing regulations
Additionally, a jet ski safety project was launched to install mandatory tracking devices and offer a new two-year registration option for owners.
Environmental and Digital Transformation Milestones
In line with its sustainability agenda, DMA launched Phase I of the Dubai Reef project, one of the largest artificial reef programs in the region, aimed at enhancing marine biodiversity and promoting eco-tourism.
The authority also accelerated digital transformation through major upgrades:
- Enhanced the “Rosoom” payment gateway
- Launched a Smart Sailing Permit in collaboration with Dubai Police
- Expanded service access via WhatsApp, self-service kiosks, and digital platforms to improve user experience and efficiency
Global Recognition
These comprehensive efforts contributed to Dubai being ranked:
- 1st in the Arab world
- 11th globally in the 2024 Leading Maritime Cities report (Baltic Exchange & Xinhua)
The ranking cements Dubai’s status as a regional maritime powerhouse with rapidly growing influence on the global stage.
