To transfer boat ownership in the UAE, both the buyer and seller submit a notarised bill of sale to the maritime authority of the emirate where the vessel is registered — usually Dubai Maritime Authority (DMCA) or Abu Dhabi Maritime. The process requires an in-date inspection report, Emirates IDs, valid marine insurance, and clearance of any outstanding fees. Most private transfers complete in 5–10 working days. BoatFinder+ supports each step with verified dealers, inspection services, and TruCheck-backed listings.
Both parties sign a notarised bill of sale, the vessel passes inspection, and the buyer submits the transfer application to the maritime authority of the emirate where the boat is registered (DMCA in Dubai, Abu Dhabi Maritime in Abu Dhabi). Fees are paid and the registration is reissued in the buyer's name, typically within 5–10 working days.
Notarised bill of sale, original registration certificate, recent hull inspection report, Emirates IDs of buyer and seller (or trade licences for companies), marine insurance certificate in the buyer's name, and a marina no-objection letter if the vessel is berthed.
Most private transfers between UAE residents complete in 5–10 working days. Corporate or non-resident transfers add 2–4 weeks for trade-licence verification.
Dubai Maritime Authority (DMCA) handles all pleasure-craft and commercial-vessel transfers in Dubai. Other emirates use their own authority (Abu Dhabi Maritime, Sharjah Ports, RAK Maritime City, etc.).