New Dubai rule: All marine vessels must 'properly' display Hull Identification Number

Dubai: The 'hull identification number' must be included and properly displayed by all marine vessels in Dubai.

This will apply to these vessels' registration, licensing and renewal processes, according to the Dubai Maritime Authority.

Manufacturers of marine vessels, their owners, operators, and importers will need to comply with the new requirement.

The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is an internationally recognized standard - and one that 'enables traceability of a vessel’s manufacturing and operational identity'.

"The DMA calls on all concerned parties to fully cooperate with the issued regulatory guidelines," said a statement. "This plays a vital role in improving the performance of the maritime sector and ensuring the safety of individuals and property within the Emirate’s territorial waters."

The HIN consists of a sequence of letters and numbers affixed to the hull or structure so that it should be clearly visible and accessible.

It facilitates verification of 'compliance with technical specifications and inspection and licensing records'.

Any failure to provide a valid and approved HIN could result in rejection of the vessel’s registration. Or lead to 'delays in related technical and administrative processes, including technical inspection procedures for registration or license renewal'.

The DMA also clarified that the HIN must match the official documents submitted through the Authority’s electronic system.