DoT in Abu Dhabi commences personal watercraft registration

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced that, Sunday August 18, 2013 will witness the commencement of registration of Personal Watercrafts (Jet Ski) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The DoT has set a clear and easy registration process through which owners visit the Unified Centre at Mina area to complete the inspection of their watercrafts, followed by filling a registration application by owners or representatives (with Power of Attorney). The registration process requires a number of valid documents such as copies of UAE identity cards; bill of sale (or any other proof of ownership); customs clearance certificates (if applicable); valid insurance policy for 13 months issued by a licensed insurer in the UAE, in addition to any other documents that the DoT may redeem necessary for registration and licensing of personal watercrafts. It is noteworthy that the DoT has recently begun the registration of watercrafts owned by rental companies available for hire to the public. Furthermore, the DoT has announced the areas in which watercrafts are not allowed in Abu Dhabi waters due to safety and/or environmental considerations. These PWC-unallowed waters are the Corniche, Al Bateen, Ras Al Akhdar, Al Maqta Khor, North Saadiyat Island (in which motorized boats are also not allowed) and Al Raha Beach. In all other PWC-allowed waters, personal watercraft users are required by law to observe speed limits, marine signs and all other rules related to the use of Personal Watercrafts (Jet Ski). Humaid Saber Al Hameli, the Acting Director of the Maritime Sector at the Department of Transport said: "The registration of watercrafts highlights the DoT's commitment to enabling a larger segment of PWC owners to practice their water activities in accordance with standards that ensure highest levels of safety, security and protection of watercraft owners, other water users as well as natural and environment-sensitive areas in Abu Dhabi." "This registration process as well as decisions issued by Abu Dhabi relating to licensing and registering watercrafts aim to optimise the rapidly-growing status of the Emirate as one of key destinations for water sports. I would like to call upon all watercraft users to abide by marine laws and rules for their safety and pleasure", he added.