Have you ever thought of buying a yacht? It could be one of the exciting experiences to own a personal yacht. And it becomes more exciting if you are buying one in Dubai because of the beautiful marinas, luxurious life, and calm blue beaches. But before you start sailing straight, you need to get to know the documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai
So here is the complete breakdown of all you need to do before you buy a yacht in Dubai
Why paperwork matters?
If you are buying your yacht, make sure you get all the documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai, because the Dubai Law is very strict about it. And here is why it’s that important:
- It acts as proof for legal ownership.
- It ensures hassle-free registration and insurance.
- Users can sail without any restrictions in the UAE and international waters.
- It protects your rights from fraud and disputes.
And it doesn’t really matter whether you are buying a brand-new yacht or a secondhand one; the documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai remain the same. Just the process may differ.
Proof of identity and residency
Your identity is the key to prof that where you belong, and it is the first thing to mark on the checklist of “documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai”
First, they will check your identity, and for that, the following are the documents they will ask for.
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID
- Residence visa copy
- Trade license
And even if you are not a native and are a foreigner, we will ask for valid passport details and proof of address.
Sales agreement or bill of sale
Basically, this is the second document in the checklist of “documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai, which becomes really important, as it acts as proof that ownership has now changed.
And this contract should mention the following things:
- Details of the buyer and seller.
- Mention of the yacht’s make, model, and year in detail.
- Hull identification number.
- Price paid and payment methods.
- Delivery terms and conditions with the date of sale.
Make sure the document gets signed by both parties, and keep copies of it for future needs and security purposes.
Documents Required to Buy a Yacht in Dubai
The primary authority for licensing and registering vessels in Dubai is the DMCA (Dubai Maritime City Authority). According to UAE law, all vessels operating Dubai Emirate must be licensed and registered via DMCA.
For the registration process, save this checklist of documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai:
- Passport & Emirates ID of the owner (copy)
- UAE Residence Visa (for residents)
- Ownership Proof / Bill of Sale
- Customs Clearance Certificate (for imported vessels)
- Tonnage Certificate
- Hull Inspection Report / Survey Report
- Safety Equipment Compliance Certificate
- Engine Certificate & Serial Number Documentation
- Previous Registration Certificate (if applicable)
- Photographs of the Vessel (side, front, interior as required)
- Mandatory Marine Insurance Policy issued by a UAE-licensed insurance provider
- Application Form for Vessel Registration (DMCA issued)
Once the submission is done, you will receive a registration certificate and final number plates.
Technical and Safety certificate
Authorities in Dubai need you to meet all the safety standards, and only after the inspection will you get your final approval. And for this, here is everything you need: Issued by DMCA or a DMCA-approved third-party inspection entity. This single report covers:
- Hull condition
- Engine and propulsion systems
- Navigation lights and systems
- Fuel system and electrical safety
- Hull identification number (HIN) verification
- Mandatory safety equipment (life jackets, distress signals, fire extinguishers, etc.)
You will need these certificates for insurance purposes as well.
Proof of payment and insurance
Financial documentation is another very crucial part of the whole process before owning a yacht. And for payment proof, you will need:
- Payment and bank transfer receipt proof.
- All invoices.
- Insurance policy document
Customs Clearance
This is required only when you are importing a yacht from a foreign country.
And the following are the documents you will need:
- Customs Clearance Certificate
- Bill of Entry / Import Declaration
- Proof of duty and VAT payment
- Bill of Lading / Shipping documents
Power of Attorney
If any third party is involved, they need to notarize the power of attorney. After this, the legal authority will complete the further paperwork.
Final step
When you are all done with all these 7 documents required to buy a yacht in Dubai, and submit for the final process, after that DMCA does their final technical inspection and submission process (insurance, ownership, builder certificate, etc.), DMCA issues the marine craft license & registration.
Conclusion
Having your own yacht, and that too in Dubai, may sound very fascinating, but it comes with a lot of formalities and paperwork. But if done correctly, then you may enjoy a hassle-free and smooth sail on Dubai’s coastline.
Just get all the documentation done from the concerned authorities and get your papers verified, and make sure it meets all the requirements and safety standards.
Enjoy our full guide on “7 Essential Documents Required to Buy a Yacht in Dubai,” and once it’s all done, just go and enjoy your sail!
