Requirements for towing operations in UAE waters and ports

The UAE Federal Maritime Administration (FMA) represented by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has issued a circular regarding requirements for towing operations in UAE waters and ports.

The circular was published on January 17th, 2023.

To ensure that safe towing operations, conducted in UAE waters and ports, are following International and National regulations the following procedures should be adhered to:

Towing operations are conducted in reference to Circular No.884 of 1998 (Guidelines for Ocean Safe Towing), issued by the Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organization.
Towing operations are conducted in UAE waters and ports after obtaining the Towage Approval Certificate from one of the companies approved by the UAE Maritime Administration. Vessels with towing combinations arriving at UAE Ports from International voyages must submit the Towage Approval Certificate to the port of arrival in UAE.
Towing operations commenced from UAE ports after obtaining the approval from the Harbormaster and verification on the weather condition for the intended voyage as indicated in the Towage approval certificate.
All vessels engaged in the towing operation must have valid insurance coverage for the intended voyage.
Port authorities must verify that all vessels engaged in towing operations have nominated a local UAE agency.

This circular is addressed to port authorities and harbor masters, ship owners, managers and agents, recognized organizations, towing surveying companies, and ships masters.