As marine activities increase during the summer, Dubai Police has stepped up inspections and safety awareness campaigns.
As thousands of residents and visitors head to Dubai’s beaches during the summer season, Dubai Police has warned jet-ski riders against unsafe practices that continue to put lives at risk, noting that many marine accidents result from avoidable mistakes.
Brigadier Ahmed Abdullah Salem Al Adidi, Acting Director of the Ports Police Station at Dubai Police, told Khaleej Times that speeding, failing to wear life jackets, operating jet skis in swimming zones, and insufficient experience are among the most common violations recorded by officers.
“Many accidents happen because riders lack the necessary knowledge or training to operate jet skis safely,” he said.
According to Al Adidi, some jet-ski users put themselves and others at risk by speeding near beaches and marinas, performing dangerous manoeuvres, failing to keep a safe distance from other vessels, or riding without approved life jackets.
“These actions do not only endanger the rider, but also swimmers, boat users, and others enjoying the sea,” he said.
Al Adidi stressed that wearing an approved life jacket throughout the ride is one of the simplest and most effective safety measures to prevent drowning in the event of a fall into the water. He also advised riders to wear protective helmets to minimise the risk of head injuries caused by collisions or falls.
Before riding, users should check that their jet ski has sufficient fuel, confirm that the steering and engine systems are working properly, and ensure the emergency engine cut-off lanyard is attached securely and functioning correctly.
Dubai Police has also advised riders to avoid operating jet skis during unsafe weather conditions, including strong winds and rough seas, and to review weather forecasts before heading out.
Other safety violations include carrying more passengers than the manufacturer’s recommended limit, ignoring marine warning signs, failing to carry a waterproof communication device, and travelling beyond approved navigation areas.
Al Adidi reminded parents and rental companies that children below the legal operating age must not use jet skis unless accompanied by a parent or qualified adult. He stressed that all parties share responsibility for following safety regulations.
Summer enforcement
With marine activities increasing during the summer season, Dubai Police has strengthened inspections and awareness efforts in coordination with its strategic partners.
Al Adidi said the Ports Police Station has launched awareness campaigns targeting jet-ski rental companies across Dubai in cooperation with the Dubai Maritime Authority. Inspection operations are also being conducted to ensure compliance and address violations.
Advice for riders
For families, tourists, and anyone planning to rent a jet ski, Al Adidi urged riders to prioritise safety from the moment they leave the shore until they return.
He advised users to always wear life jackets and helmets, attach the engine cut-off lanyard securely to their wrist, clothing, or life jacket, remain within approved riding zones, avoid crowded beaches and swimming areas, refrain from risky manoeuvres, follow maritime rules, and stop riding after sunset in line with permitted operating hours.
Riders were also urged to cooperate with police patrols, ensure their watercraft is registered and properly maintained, carry a waterproof phone or communication device, and never exceed the approved passenger limit.
