Dubai's PCFC Stops Entry And Departure Of Wooden Dhows Due To Weather Concerns

In response to the anticipated adverse weather conditions in Dubai, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) has made a critical decision to halt the entry and departure of wooden dhows temporarily. This measure is part of a broader initiative to prioritize the safety of maritime stakeholders in the face of challenging sea conditions forecasted due to a low-pressure system. Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, the Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority at PCFC, underscored the organization's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its maritime community.

The suspension, as announced by the PCFC, affects all wooden ships seeking to enter or leave Dubai. This precautionary step is a direct response to advisories from relevant authorities about the impending weather disruptions. The Marine Agency for Wooden Dhows, a key entity within PCFC, is at the forefront of this initiative, ensuring that maritime operations adhere to stringent safety standards and practices. Sheikh Saeed highlighted the agency's role in managing pre-booking for dhows and its efforts to communicate effectively with shipping agents, vessel owners, and other stakeholders about the expected weather conditions.

With over 500 safe berths under its management, the Marine Agency for Wooden Dhows is well-prepared to accommodate vessels in emergency situations. Stakeholders are strongly advised against sailing during this period unless it is absolutely necessary. The agency's proactive engagement with strategic partners through meetings and field visits aims to assess and enhance the readiness of facilities, ensuring minimal disruption to movement flow while prioritizing safety.

Furthermore, the PCFC Call Centre is geared up to offer round-the-clock assistance in four languages, ready to handle emergency calls and reports from stakeholders. This comprehensive approach underscores PCFC's dedication to maintaining high safety standards within Dubai's maritime sector. The Call Centre can be contacted at 800990 for support and emergency services.

This temporary suspension of wooden dhow operations reflects PCFC's agile response to environmental challenges and its unwavering commitment to protecting maritime stakeholders from potential hazards. Through strategic planning and effective communication, PCFC aims to mitigate risks associated with adverse weather conditions, ensuring the safety and security of all maritime activities in Dubai.

With inputs from WAM