
All Dubai-based marine vessels are required to have the 'hull identification number' on board and exhibit it correctly. This will be applicable to the Dubai Maritime Authority's registration, licensing, and renewal procedures for certain vessels. The new rule will apply to makers of maritime boats as well as their importers, owners, and operators.
A globally accepted standard, the Hull Identification Number (HIN) "enables traceability of a vessel’s manufacturing and operational identity." In order for the HIN to be easily visible and accessible, it is attached to the hull or structure as a series of letters and numbers.
It makes "compliance with technical specifications and inspection and licensing records" easier to verify.
The vessel's registration may be refused if a valid and authorized HIN is not provided. 'Delays in relevant technical and administrative processes, including technical inspection procedures for registration or license renewal' could also result from this.
Additionally, the DMA made it clear that the HIN and the formal documents filed via the Authority's electronic system must match.