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Dhow upper decks thrown open again after safety measures

DUBAI — Four months after dhow cruise operators in the emirate were restricted from opening their vessels' upper deck to guests, the Dubai Ports Authority (DPA) has began giving the thumbs up sign to operators that have complied with the agency's stringent safety and security requirements, an industry source disclosed.

In an interview with Khaleej Times, Kulwant Singh, Managing Partner of Lama Desert Tours and Cruises LLC and Coordinator of the Boat Rental and Cruise Operators Group, said that the DPA's policy guaranteed that only boats that have passed their standards will be allowed to operate the upper deck, further preventing untoward security concerns on board.

"Dhow cruise operators were given a list of requirements that they have to fulfill in order for them to be given the permission to open their upper decks. Those requirements vary from one operator to another because of certain considerations like the size of boats and the facilities offered. Operators will then be given a timeframe to comply with those requirements as inspections were continuously being conducted by the DPA," Singh said.

Since the upper decks were banned from operating in early April this year, the dhow cruise industry in Dubai reportedly suffered huge financial losses at an average monthly passenger volume of 60,000 or potential monthly revenue of Dh9 million. Upper decks were noted to be an attraction to tourists because it gives them a better view of the Creek. “The latest development will be very good for the industry particularly since we are expecting September to be the start of the peak season for dhow cruises along Dubai Creek."

He also commended the efforts of the DPA, particularly Capt. Khamis Mohd. Khamis, Manager of Hamriya Ports and Dubai Creek, for initiating the policy and ensuring that operators comply with it.

Currently, DPA has issued the official permission to Lama Desert Tours' two dhows plying the Creek but Singh said that all the members of the Cruise Operators Group are working full-time to comply with the requirements and it will not be long until other operators will be allowed to open their upper decks.