How to get a boat licence in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi requires anyone in charge of a boat in its waters to hold a certified marine driving licence. Train with us at Yas Marina and get your application right first time.

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The rule

Who needs a licence in Abu Dhabi?

Under a directive from Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport, boat owners and operators must hold a certified marine craft driver's licence before taking a vessel out. Licences are issued by Abu Dhabi's maritime authority.

Vessels must be registered and permitted to sail, and the rule covers anchoring, fishing and water sports alike — including boats registered in another emirate but used in Abu Dhabi. The aim is safer waters and skippers who know the local rules.

Train locally

Yas Marina training base

Xclusive Sea School teaches the internationally recognised RYA Powerboat Level 2 course, with a base at Vida Creek Marina Yacht Club, Yas Marina.

Course: RYA Powerboat Level 2
Length: 2 days
Minimum age: Over 12
Class size: Max 3 per instructor

Step by step

How the process works

Enquire
Tell us you'll be boating in Abu Dhabi. We'll confirm the training route, dates and current fees for you.
Train with RYA instructors
Complete your powerboat course with a small group — no more than three students per instructor.
Prepare your documents
We'll walk you through what the Abu Dhabi authority currently asks for, so nothing is missing.
Apply for your licence
Submit your application to the authority. Contact us for current authority fees and timelines.

What you need

Typical paperwork

Applications in the UAE usually ask for the following. Abu Dhabi's exact list is set by its authority, so we confirm it with you before you apply.

Completed licence application form
Passport copy with visa page, or Emirates ID / family book for UAE nationals
Recent photo on a white background
NOC from your sponsor, for non-UAE nationals
Your powerboat training certificate
Medical fitness declaration, including an eye test

Not sure what applies to you? Requirements are set by the authority and can change. Ask us for current fees, dates and the up-to-date document list.

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Enquire

Train for your Abu Dhabi licence

Tell us which emirate you'll be boating in and when you'd like to train. Our team will reply with current course dates and fees.