Dubai’s status as a global trade hub has been reinforced with the issuance of a new law by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The law has renamed the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) as the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) and outlines the responsibilities of both the DMA and the Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) in regulating maritime activities in the emirate.
Law No. (3) of 2023 replaces Law No. (11) of 2007, which pertains to the establishment of the Dubai Maritime City Authority, and annuls any other legislation that may contradict it. Any provisions, decisions, and memos that were issued to implement Law No. (11) of 2007 will remain in effect until new ones are issued, as long as they do not contradict the clauses of Law No. (3) of 2023.
Dubai has long been a significant player in the global maritime industry. Its strategic location on the Arabian Gulf has made it an important hub for maritime trade between Asia, Europe, and Africa. The emirate’s ports have also played a crucial role in facilitating the flow of goods and services to and from the UAE and beyond.
The new law aims to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global coastal trade hub by improving maritime security, ensuring that marine vessels comply with technical requirements, establishing a marine plan for Dubai, setting the entry and exit requirements for wooden dhows and their crews, among other tasks.
The renaming of the DMCA to the DMA reflects the evolution of the organization’s role in regulating the maritime industry in Dubai. The DMA’s new responsibilities will include overseeing the development and implementation of policies and regulations related to maritime activities in the emirate. This includes the enforcement of international maritime conventions, regulations, and standards, as well as the issuance of licenses and permits for vessels and crew.
The PCFC, on the other hand, will be responsible for the management and operation of Dubai’s ports, including Jebel Ali Port, the largest container port in the Middle East. The PCFC will also be responsible for the development of the port infrastructure, as well as the implementation of policies and regulations related to the movement of goods through Dubai’s ports.
The law also highlights the importance of promoting sustainable development in the maritime industry. The DMA and the PCFC will be required to take into account environmental and social factors in their decision-making processes. This includes promoting the use of clean technologies, reducing carbon emissions, and protecting marine ecosystems.
The new law is a significant development in Dubai’s efforts to strengthen its position as a leading global coastal trade hub. By streamlining the regulatory framework for maritime activities in the emirate, Dubai will be better equipped to respond to the evolving needs of the industry and attract more businesses to its ports. This, in turn, will contribute to the growth of the UAE’s economy and further cement its position as a key player in the global maritime industry.
