Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA), the government authority charged with regulating, coordinating and supervising all aspects of the maritime sector in Dubai, unveiled innovative strategies to regulate various maritime operations in Dubai, during the first-ever Dubai Maritime Week 2012 that is being held from November 25 to 30.

DMCA pointed out that the strategies cover the adoption of new regulations to effectively supervise all maritime operations, such as random docking activities, in line with all local and international regulations such as the Federal law on environmental conservation and development and the regulations stipulated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The move is also part of Dubai's first-ever Maritime Strategic Plan 2012-2017 to develop and regulate the local maritime sector and to position Dubai as a global maritime leader.

The new regulations govern the supervision of all vessels passing in Dubai waters and their operations by monitoring system to verify and review certificates of the vessels, crew documents, and credibility and history. Anchorages will also be divided into sub-anchorages for short and long-term docking, waiting areas for refuelling.

Amer Ali, Executive Director, Dubai Maritime City Authority, underlined the importance of the new regulations to monitor maritime operations in the emirate. He likewise pointed out the importance of cooperating with Dubai Police in enforcing the new regulations to promote and protect the marine environment and the emirate's vital marine facilities, while enabling Marine transport to commit to all international laws concerning operations and eliminating potential maritime threats to the emirate.

Ali also stated that Dubai Maritime City Authority will continue to strengthen its efforts to protect Dubai's vital navigational facilities and further enhance supervision of vessels operating within the waters of the emirate, in line with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to create an environment that supports the sustainable development of the marine sector and consolidate Dubai's position as a world-class shipping destination.

Source: Dubai Maritime City