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Dubai’s maritime sector grows to more than 14,000 companies and 8,400 vessels
The emirate now has 8,415 registered marine craft, 20 marinas, and more than 4,200 berths as it looks to strengthen its position as a global maritime hub.
Dubai’s maritime sector is expanding rapidly, with more than 14,000 companies now operating across the industry and 8,415 marine craft registered with the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA).
The latest figures from the authority highlight the growing scale of the emirate’s maritime economy, which has attracted participants from 116 nationalities. British users account for the largest share.
Dubai’s maritime infrastructure currently includes 20 marinas and 4,214 berths, supporting rising demand for marine services, tourism, transport, and recreational activities.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, said the sector’s continued development is central to Dubai’s efforts to expand its blue economy and strengthen its global maritime presence.
“We continue to develop an integrated maritime ecosystem built on the highest standards of regulation and safety, enhancing Dubai’s competitiveness and reinforcing its position as a leading global maritime destination,” he said.
He added that the authority is focused on developing a regulatory environment that responds to the evolving needs of maritime users while improving operational efficiency and service standards.
The DMA regulates maritime activities across around 72 km of Dubai’s coastline, extending into the emirate’s exclusive economic zone. Its mandate includes developing regulations, systems, and services to improve navigational safety and support more efficient maritime operations.
Pleasure boats make up the largest category of registered vessels, with 3,269 craft, followed by 2,377 watersports vessels and 1,064 tourism vessels.
The registry also includes 897 commercial marine craft used for watersports and 224 marine public transport vessels, as well as other categories operating across Dubai’s waters.
Floating restaurants are another growing part of the sector. The DMA has registered 87 such vessels, including 58 wooden and 29 non-wooden boats, with a combined capacity of up to 9,600 guests.
Most operate around key waterfront destinations, including Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, Dubai Harbor, and Al Jaddaf Waterfront.
The authority said the sector’s growth reflects Dubai’s increasing appeal to investors, marine operators, and customers, while also highlighting the capacity of its infrastructure to support further expansion.
Working with government and private-sector partners, the DMA continues to develop regulatory and operational services to strengthen investor confidence and support the long-term competitiveness of Dubai’s maritime economy.
