Shipping Law


The United Arab Emirates, which manages numerous ports there and acts as the region’s main shipping hub, significantly contributes to the regional economy. The Federal Law No. 26 of 1981 governs the shipping industry and maritime trade (Maritime Code).

The Maritime Code controls, among other things, the process of vessel registration, contracts of carriage, liens, liability limitations, maritime accidents or collisions, arrest, and sale. A nautical lawyer is one who specializes in boating mishaps and marine injuries that occur during both professional and recreational maritime activities. In addition to representing seamen who suffer work-related injuries, attorneys who specialize in maritime law also defend those injured in incidents on recreational boats. Maritime attorneys may try cases in court, draught documents, negotiate agreements, and handle complaints about these matters in addition to handling complaints about illnesses or injuries caused by various types of marine vessels or sea craft as well as companies that dump hazardous waste into the ocean. Maritime law, often known as admiralty law, is one of the oldest branches of the law and predates the constitution.

Maritime law is the term for the body of regulations that admiralty courts oversee and regulate trade and navigation on the high seas and other navigable waters (source). These laws lay out the rules for any form of offence that occurs on, around, or in a body of navigable water, including torts, injuries, contracts, and other legal violations. Due to the special nature of maritime law, not all attorneys are competent to handle matters involving injured seafarers. Numerous maritime laws are in place to provide assistance, but the only way to know what assistance is provided is to speak with an admiralty lawyer. Admiralty law is another name for the body of regulations, accords, and agreements that govern maritime matters. A number of additional marine challenges, such as shipping and offences conducted on Open Ocean, as well as the particular maritime industry. International laws and regulations govern how the seas and oceans are used. These laws are referred to as the Law of the Sea. A complex of agreements and regulations known as Shipping Law regulates interactions and conduct on the seas, as well as business dealings in international waterways. The main area of concern for maritime law is international waterways. Maritime law also applies to:

  • Passenger and cargo transportation;
  • Shipping insurance;
  • Ship inspection,
  • License, and registration procedures; and
  • Shipping contracts.