Foreign yachts travelling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will now operate under a simplified administrative process, following the introduction of a unified protocol aimed at reinforcing the UAE’s standing as a premier global maritime hub.
The harmonised framework allows sailing permits issued by either emirate to be mutually recognised, eliminating the requirement for repeated local entry and exit formalities when foreign yachts move between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The initiative is the result of close coordination between Abu Dhabi Maritime, the Dubai Maritime Authority at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, and a range of local and federal bodies, including the National Guard, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, and Dubai Customs.
The development underscores a collective commitment to regulatory alignment, deeper integration within the maritime sector, and the UAE’s wider objective of boosting competitiveness through coordinated stakeholder collaboration.
Sheikh Dr Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Chief Executive of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said Dubai was proud to contribute its experience in facilitating yacht visits, adding that the authority fully supports the unified approach, which will further enhance the UAE’s status as a world-class maritime destination.
Captain Saif Al Mheiri, Chief Executive of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, said the initiative demonstrates a shared focus on easing maritime movement and strengthening the emirates’ appeal as leading global yachting centres, making it simpler than ever for visitors to enjoy UAE waters.
