16 July 2020. United Arab Emirates, Dubai: In recognition of the efforts of seafarers and their vital role in globally securing supply chains, the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) has announced that it is now allowing the resumption of crew changing across all ports and anchorage areas in Dubai. The resumption is being allowed provided that the COVID-19 guidelines and requirements set by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) are properly observed and complied with. The new resolution falls in line with the DMCA's commitment to provide all means required to ensure the full return of the local maritime sector to its normal pace. The move follows after the successful completion of the National Disinfection Program in Dubai, ensuring the highest levels of security and safety of maritime crew members, visitors and employees and consolidating the emirate's position as one of the safest and most competitive and attractive maritime hubs in the world.

As per the DMCA's new resolution, all agents are required to coordinate with the DMCA and other competent UAE authorities to ensure the quick processing of crew transfers from ships to airports and vice versa. All agents are urged to undergo the required medical examinations in compliance with the preventive procedures and guidelines for the COVID 19 virus to preserve the health and safety of both ship crew and relevant personnel.

Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of Dubai Maritime City Authority, said that allowing the change of ship crew members in ports and anchorage areas within Dubai’s territorial waters will help organize, facilitate and enhance maritime activities in accordance with legal and regulatory frameworks enacted to bring the maritime sector’s vibrancy back to the post-COVID-19 level. He reaffirmed DMCA’s commitment to providing the necessary facilities to ships and their crew to ensure continuity of operations within the global maritime supply chain.

Eng. Mohammad Al Bastaki, Director – Marine Anchorage Operations Department, added: 'We will set clear and strict guidelines to govern the change in marine crew members, in a manner that is consistent with the requirements of the Dubai Health Authority and the emirate’s COVID-19 precautionary measures. For our part, we will continue to work closely with our strategic partners in ports and airports and other relevant government entities to ensure that the procedures are carried out smoothly, efficiently and securely while protecting and maintaining public health and safety.”

DMCA earlier issued a resolution directing the resumption of maritime operations across Dubai's anchorage areas, which is aimed at enabling ships located in the emirate's territorial waters to have access to a diverse range of services, including maintenance and repair, subject to obtaining the proper permits from the DMCA and other relevant authorities. All companies are urged to adhere to the guidelines and health rules enforced locally to maintain the health and safety of ship crew, visitors, and employees.

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