DMCA seeks to regulate traffic in Dubai Water Canal

The Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) has issued a new strategic initiative circular to regulate the traffic in Dubai Water Canal, as part of its ongoing efforts to create a secure and sustainable maritime sector in Dubai and establish a world-class maritime community.

The initiative seeks to achieve maritime security, safe navigation, and highest operational efficiency within Dubai’s territorial waters. It introduces several navigation regulations, which include prohibition of jet skis, fishing boats, and commercial dhows in the canal, free navigation for other vessels—barring a few limitations—, a maximum speed of seven knots and draft of 2.5m, and a maximum vessel length and height of 35m and seven metres respectively. The circular also states that no craft will be allowed to dock in Road and Transport Authority (RTA) stations or any marina inside the canal without prior permission from the RTA.

Amer Ali, executive director, DMCA, said: “The move demonstrates the authority’s commitment to implement best maritime practices and improve the operational efficiency of Dubai Water Canal, a vital project that aims to put the emirate on the global maritime map and support the government’s efforts to promote local maritime safety.”

Captain Khamis Weld Ghumail, director of Maritime Traffic Management, DMCA, said: “The new circular aims to enhance the local maritime sector, boost its operational efficiency and safety, and ensure safe navigation in Dubai waterways.”