His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Executive Council, has issued the Executive Regulation of Law No. (13) of 2023 concerning the licensing and operation of maritime vessels in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. This comes as part of completing the legislative framework governing the maritime transport sector, contributing to the support of economic and tourism development in the Emirate.
The Executive Regulation represents a comprehensive regulatory framework that defines the controls and procedures for licensing and operating maritime vessels, aiming to organize this vital sector, enhance its efficiency, and raise safety standards.
The Regulation designates the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority as the competent body for implementing the provisions of the Law and its Executive Regulation, and for overseeing the regulation and management of maritime transport activities – including licensing, registration, and renewal procedures, regulating the operation of maritime vessels, and monitoring operators’ compliance with approved requirements and standards.
The Regulation also governs the categories of maritime vessels and their operational controls, procedures for licensing visiting vessels, the organization of marinas and berthing facilities, maritime training centers, and maritime events and activities – all to ensure the highest levels of operational efficiency and safety.
The Regulation includes detailed provisions regarding maritime safety requirements, technical and environmental specifications, inspection and oversight procedures, as well as incident and emergency management. It also defines the schedule of regulatory fees associated with vessel licensing and operation services, and establishes a comprehensive system of penalties and violations for those who fail to comply with the Law and its Executive Regulation – contributing to the protection of lives and property, preservation of the marine environment, and promoting compliance, transparency, and discipline within the sector.
In support of digital transformation, the Regulation mandates the establishment of integrated databases for maritime vessels, licensees, and those working in maritime activities, linked with relevant authorities – enhancing service efficiency, accelerating procedures, and improving the accuracy of oversight and planning.
The Regulation also supports the investment environment in the maritime sector by providing a clear and stable regulatory framework that boosts investor confidence and supports the growth of maritime transport, tourism, and water sports activities.
For his part, His Excellency Engineer Ismail Hassan Al Blooshi, Director General of the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, affirmed that the issuance of the Executive Regulation represents a significant milestone in the development of the Emirate’s maritime transport sector, noting that the Authority operates according to a comprehensive vision aimed at organizing this vital sector in line with international best practices.
He stated that the Regulation will contribute to enhancing safety and operational efficiency, raising the quality of services provided, and supporting digital transformation across various maritime procedures and services – delivering an integrated experience for customers and strengthening the Emirate’s competitiveness as a leading maritime and tourism destination.
The issuance of the Executive Regulation marks an important step toward developing a fully integrated maritime transport sector in Ras Al Khaimah, built on best regulatory practices and standards of safety and sustainability – reinforcing the Emirate’s position as a premier maritime and tourism destination.
