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The Federal Maritime Authority (FMA) operates under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), regulating maritime activities across the U.A.E. The FMA oversees the issuance of small boat driving licenses, ensuring compliance with maritime safety and operational standards.

Marine Concept is authorized by the FMA/MOEI to provide training and conduct exams for both pleasure and commercial licenses, covering vessels up to 12 meters and 24 meters and YachtMaster less than 200 GT. These licenses align with U.A.E. standards and are essential for safe and lawful operation in local waters.

In addition to licensing oversight, the FMA ensures that maritime training—including STCW Basic Safety Training (BST)—meets both national and international requirements. This ensures that seafarers operating in U.A.E. waters are fully prepared and certified according to global standards.

FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License Pleasure

The Federal Maritime Authority (FMA), operating under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), is responsible for regulating the issuance of pleasure and commercial marine craft licenses across the U.A.E. These licenses are mandatory for the legal operation of small boats and yachts within U.A.E. waters.

Licensing Categories:

  1. FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License – Up to 12 meters (Pleasure)
  2. FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License – Up to 24 meters (Pleasure)

These licenses ensure all small boat operators comply with U.A.E. maritime safety standards, promoting responsible navigation within local waters. 

Renewable Validity Options
Applicants can choose from three renewable validity periods for their license:

  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 5 years

Application Requirements

  • Identification and Residency:
    • Valid passport
    • Valid Emirates ID (expatriates require a valid residence visa, but only the EID is needed for the application)
  • Medical Requirements:
    • Medical fitness certificate from an approved medical center or valid UAE car driving license.
  • Training Certifications:
    • Up to 12 meters: FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License 12 meter
    • Up to 24 meters: FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License 24 meter
  • Minimum Age:
    • 16 years for up to 12 meters
    • 18 years for up to 24 meters
  • Additional Documents:
    • Passport-sized photo with a white background
    • Other documents may be requested during the application process

How to Apply

  • Applications must be submitted through the MOEI online portal using UAE PASS
  • Upon approval, the license will be issued digitally and can be downloaded through the MOEI platform.
  • MOEI will deliver the original FMA Small Boat Driving License (SBDL) card to the delivery address provided during the online application process.

Sample License

FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License Commercial

The Federal Maritime Authority (FMA), operating under the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI), is responsible for regulating the issuance of pleasure and commercial marine craft licenses across the U.A.E. These licenses are mandatory for the legal operation of small boats and yachts within U.A.E. waters.

Licensing Categories

  1. FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License – Up to 12 meters (Commercial)
  2. FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License – Up to 24 meters (Commercial)

These licenses ensure all small boat operators comply with U.A.E. maritime safety standards, promoting responsible navigation within local waters.

Renewable Validity Options
Applicants can choose from three renewable validity periods for their license:

  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 5 years

Application Requirements

  • Identification and Residency:
    • Valid passport
    • Valid Emirates ID (expatriates require a valid residence visa, but only the EID is needed for the application)
  • Medical Requirements:
    • Medical fitness certificate from an approved medical center or valid UAE car driving license.
  • Training Certifications:
    • Up to 12 meters: FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License 12 meter
    • Up to 24 meters: FMA/MOEI Small Boat Driving License 24 meter
  • Minimum Age:
    • 16 years for up to 12 meters
    • 18 years for up to 24 meters
  • Additional Documents:
    • Passport-sized photo (digital)
    • Valid STCW BST (must be verified, if issued from foreign country)
    • Other documents may be requested during the application process

How to Apply

  • Applications must be submitted through the MOEI online portal using UAE PASS
  • Upon approval, the license will be issued digitally and can be downloaded through the MOEI platform.
  • MOEI will deliver the original FMA Small Boat Driving License (SBDL) card to the delivery address provided during the online application process.

Sample License

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