Foreign Yachts to Sail Freely Between Abu Dhabi and Dubai from 2026

Foreign yachts travelling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will benefit from a simplified and unified set of procedures starting January 2026, under a new protocol designed to ease inter-emirate sailing and enhance the UAE’s appeal as a global yachting hub. The initiative removes longstanding administrative hurdles, offering a smoother and faster experience for visiting yacht owners and operators.

Under the new framework, sailing permits issued by either Abu Dhabi or Dubai will be mutually recognised, eliminating the need for repeated approvals and local entry and exit formalities when moving between the two emirates. Authorities will instead rely on a digital Early Inquiry System to access vessel, crew, and passenger details, reducing paperwork and waiting times.

The streamlined system is the result of close coordination between Abu Dhabi Maritime and the Dubai Maritime Authority, in collaboration with several local and federal entities, including the National Guard, Dubai Customs, and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to aligning maritime regulations and improving services for international visitors.

Sheikh Dr Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said the unified approach builds on Dubai’s experience in welcoming visiting yachts and supporting maritime tourism, noting that inter-emirate cooperation is essential for long-term sector growth. Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, added that the agreement will make it easier for visitors to explore the UAE’s coastline while boosting the country’s competitiveness as a global yachting destination.

Officials say the new protocol represents a significant step toward creating a more integrated, user-friendly maritime sector. By facilitating seamless movement between two of the UAE’s main maritime centres, the initiative is expected to attract more international yacht traffic, support marine tourism, encourage longer stays, and unlock greater economic potential across the nation’s waterways.