Dubai Maritime Authority Launches 2024-2025 Marine Sports Season With Safety Campaign For Sea-Goers

The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), under the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), has initiated the 2024-2025 marine sports season. This event is anticipated to attract millions globally for diverse marine activities. Alongside, DMA has launched a campaign to enhance marine safety awareness among sea-goers in Dubai.

Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of PCFC, emphasised the importance of safety in marine sports. "The Dubai Maritime Authority is committed to creating a safe environment for all types of marine sports and activities while educating sea-goers about public safety guidelines. This ensures that everyone can enjoy water sports while following specific procedures intended to safeguard them from potential risks."

The campaign addresses the rising number of participants in marine activities with the new season's arrival. It aims to protect sea-goers by reducing drowning risks and injuries through collaboration with maritime rescue teams for better emergency readiness.

DMA's initiative includes installing free mooring buoys across Dubai's waters. These buoys support recreational activities for vessel users and align with global standards to boost marine tourism in Dubai.

Safety buoys have been placed in key areas under DMA’s jurisdiction. These designate swimming zones, keep boats and jet skis at a safe distance, and mark restricted zones and mooring spots.

Al Neyadi highlighted PCFC's use of its maritime expertise to enhance service quality for clients and partners. The focus is on providing top-notch infrastructure and skilled personnel for marine facilities.

The campaign encourages adherence to safety guidelines during activities like kayaking, jet skiing, and boating. Al Neyadi advised against reckless behaviour, urging compliance with speed limits, wearing life jackets, maintaining safe distances between vessels, avoiding restricted areas, and keeping navigation channels clear.

Environmental Responsibility and Safety Measures

The campaign also stresses personal safety gear usage before setting out on marine journeys. Regular inspections of boats, jet skis, and yachts are crucial for safety. Reporting trip schedules to local authorities is also advised.

PCFC reiterated its dedication to protecting the marine environment by discouraging waste dumping or oil spills into the water. They urge minimising noise pollution, checking weather conditions before sailing, keeping emergency contacts handy, and avoiding designated swimming areas.

Awareness Campaigns Across Platforms

A comprehensive media strategy supports this initiative by distributing awareness materials at sports centres and marine equipment retailers. Social media campaigns further promote safety during these activities.

This collective effort aims to significantly reduce drowning incidents and related injuries within Dubai’s waters. By fostering a culture of safety among sea-goers, DMA seeks to ensure enjoyable yet secure experiences for all involved in marine sports.

With inputs from WAM