Foreign yachts travelling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will benefit from a streamlined administrative framework under a new unified protocol designed to enhance the UAE’s position as a leading global maritime destination.
The consolidated system introduces mutual recognition of sailing permits issued by either emirate and removes the need for duplicate local entry and exit procedures when foreign yachts move between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The initiative follows extensive coordination between Abu Dhabi Maritime, the Dubai Maritime Authority at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, and several local and federal entities, including the National Guard, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, and Dubai Customs.
The move reflects a shared commitment to aligning regulatory frameworks, strengthening integration across the maritime sector, and supporting the UAE’s broader ambitions to enhance competitiveness through coordinated action among stakeholders.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said: “Dubai is proud to share its successful experience in facilitating yacht visits. We are fully committed to supporting this unified approach, which will undoubtedly strengthen the UAE’s position as a leading world-class maritime destination”.
Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, said: “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to simplifying maritime mobility and enhancing our emirates’ competitiveness as global yachting hubs. We are making it easier than ever for visitors to enjoy our waters”.
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Under the new protocol, sailing permits issued in either emirate will be recognised for inter-emirate travel. Authorities will also use the Early Inquiry System Application Programming Interface (API) to obtain vessel, crew, and passenger data, eliminating the need for repeated submissions. Local entry and exit procedures will be waived for foreign yachts travelling between the two emirates.
The new framework will come into effect in January 2026, with shipping agents instructed to operate in line with the updated requirements.
The initiative marks a new phase of maritime collaboration within the UAE and establishes a more integrated and business-friendly regulatory environment for foreign yachts, supporting the continued growth of maritime tourism and investment across the country.
Dubai Maritime Authority regulates and oversees all maritime activities in the Emirate of Dubai, while Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, manages the emirate’s waterways in collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Integrated Transport Centre, delivering modern infrastructure and digital services to support both recreational and commercial maritime sectors.
