Dubai strengthens bunkering fleet as maritime operations resume

The DMCA has increased the number of licensed bunker vessels to 12 for supplying marine fuel across territorial waters.

Mohammad Al Bastaki, Director – Marine Anchorage Operations Department of DMCA, said: “Strengthening the bunkering fleets represents a quality focused addition to the efforts aimed at providing guarantees for the return of momentum to the local marine sector, particularly in the present scenario, when there is an easing of restrictions in Dubai and in conjunction with the completion of the National Disinfection Programme.”

The decision to resume maritime activity across Dubai's anchorage areas will enable ships based in the emirate's territorial waters to have access to the ship’s services, which includes maintenance, repair and refuelling, subject to obtaining the proper permits from the DMCA and other relevant authorities and in fulfilment of safety requirements and protective measures.

“We will continue to focus on updating the operational and legal framework governing marine activities to be at pace with the rapidly changing variables, keeping in mind the adoption of best practices that support the growth and sustainability of marine activity, in line with the ‘Dubai Maritime Sector Strategy’ which is focused on enhancing the attractiveness, competitiveness and inclusiveness of the local marine community,” Al Bastaki added.

Strengthening of the bunkering fleet falls within the framework of the DMCA’s commitment to develop and grow the marine segment so as to ensure the continuous supply of marine fuels to ships without interruption, especially in view of the ongoing preparations to receive regional and international tourists arriving in Dubai.