Get your UAE boat licence
Train with RYA-qualified instructors in Dubai Marina or Yas Marina, then apply for your marine driving licence with the right paperwork in hand.
- FTA approved
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- Two-day course
Anyone who wants to take the helm
If you will be in charge of a boat on UAE waters, you need a licence — whether you own one, rent one, or simply want the skills.
Boat owners
Drive your own boat legally and confidently in the emirate where you berth.
Weekend boaters
Fishing, anchoring off the beach or water sports — get licensed before you head out.
Complete beginners
No experience needed. The course starts with the basics and builds you up on the water.
Future professionals
RYA qualifications are recognised worldwide — a solid first step towards working at sea.
Licence guides by emirate
Each emirate has its own maritime authority. Pick where you'll be boating to see how the process works.
Dubai
Complete RYA Powerboat Level 2 and apply to the DMCA for a pleasure craft licence for boats up to 12 m.
Read the guide Abu Dhabi maritime authorityAbu Dhabi
Train at Yas Marina and get help preparing your application for Abu Dhabi waters.
Read the guide Sharjah maritime authoritySharjah
Boating out of Sharjah? See what the authorities there expect and how we can help you prepare.
Read the guideTrained properly, by people who run boats every day
Xclusive Sea School is the training arm of Xclusive Yachts, operating in the UAE since 2006.
Approved and accredited
FTA approved, an RYA recognised training centre, DMCA approved and ISO 9001:2015 certified.
Small groups
A strict 1:3 instructor-to-student ratio, so you spend your time at the wheel — not watching.
Two marina locations
Train at Dubai Marina (Vida Hotel & Yacht Club) or Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi.
The course behind the licence
RYA Powerboat Level 2 is a two-day practical course covering boat handling, close-quarters manoeuvring, safety and the rules of the road. In Dubai it leads to the DMCA licence for pleasure boats up to 12 metres (39 ft). Prices start from AED 2,500 including VAT — contact us for current dates.
- Course
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- Length
- 2 days
- Minimum age
- Over 12
- Class size
- Max 3 per instructor
Common questions
What is a boat licence?
It is official proof that you are allowed to drive a motorised boat. It shows you have been trained and assessed on handling a boat safely and on the rules of the water.
Do I need a licence to drive a boat in the UAE?
Yes. Each emirate's maritime authority expects anyone in charge of a private or commercial craft in its waters to hold a valid marine driving licence. The rule exists to keep everyone on the water safe and to make sure skippers know the local regulations.
How do I get a boat licence in Dubai?
Complete the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course, then apply to the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) with your documents and a medical check. Passing the course makes you eligible for the DMCA pleasure craft licence for boats up to 12 metres.
How long does the course take?
RYA Powerboat Level 2 runs over two days, typically from 09:00 to 17:30. You will be given your exact dates and timings when you book.
How much does it cost?
RYA Powerboat Level 2 at Xclusive Sea School starts from AED 2,500 including VAT. Authority fees are separate and set by the authority, so contact us for current fees and dates.
Who can take the course?
Anyone over 12 years old, including complete beginners. Classes are small, with no more than three students per instructor, and are taught in English by a multilingual team.
Ask about your licence
Tell us which emirate you'll be boating in and when you'd like to train. Our team will reply with current course dates and fees.
- Call04 452 3332
- WhatsApp055 106 8173