Dubai issues 67 fines for watercrafts and offshore restaurant

Dubai's Ports Police Station issued 67 fines against 47 maritime watercrafts and one offshore restaurant in December, primarily for violations related to maritime safety procedures and expired licenses.

Brigadier Dr. Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of the Ports Police Station, stated that the fines resulted from a joint inspection campaign with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, during which 118 watercrafts were inspected.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to educate watercraft users, enhance maritime security, ensure safe navigation, promote public safety, and enforce maritime laws and regulations. The campaign also aims to ensure the effective implementation of preventive security measures across all types of watercrafts.

Brig. Al Suwaidi emphasised that these annual campaigns prioritise the safety of watercraft users and offshore restaurant patrons by ensuring they understand and comply with relevant laws.

The initiatives also aim to regulate watercraft use and prevent related violations, which in December included hosting events without permits, operating watercraft with expired licenses, and failing to adhere to mandatory safety procedures designed to protect both people and the marine environment.

The station also recorded 26 reports of legal violations against watercraft users.

Brig. Al Suwaidi highlighted the high readiness of maritime security patrols to ensure safe navigation and prevent violations. He also confirmed the 24/7 availability of marine rescue teams for swift emergency response.

Major Saeed Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Head of the General Duty Section at the Ports Police Station and campaign leader, urged all watercraft owners and operators to adhere to local laws and safety protocols. He also encouraged the public to cooperate with authorities and report any observed maritime violations.