Dubai Police impound 32 jet skis, issue fines to 39 marine vessels over safety violations

Dubai Police have seized 32 jet skis and issued 39 violations to rental agencies as part of a crackdown on unsafe marine practices, officials said.

The action follows inspections that revealed several jet skis were either severely damaged, had been involved in previous accidents or were unfit for use. Violations also included safety breaches and allowing jet ski riders to operate in undesignated areas.

Brigadier Dr. Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of the Ports Police Station, said that some rental businesses lacked proper electronic documentation and followed poor rental procedures, increasing risks for users and other marine traffic.

Authorities have reminded the public and rental operators of the penalties for non-compliance. Using an unlicensed watercraft or operating without proper authorisation in Dubai waters incurs a fine of Dh5,000. Failure to renew expired licences carries a Dh1,000 penalty and leasing out unfit watercraft can also lead to a Dh5,000 fine. Obstructing inspectors during checks results in a similar penalty.

Brigadier Al Suwaidi urged rental agencies to conduct routine maintenance checks on all jet skis, enforce strict safety protocols and ensure rental contracts are transparent and compliant with marine regulations.

The move comes amid ongoing efforts to reduce accidents and fatalities involving jet skis in the emirate’s coastal zones.