Harbour Master

Role overview

Marine operations and compliance

• Enforces port laws, regulations, guidelines, and applicable UAE-adopted international maritime conventions.
• Oversees vessel movements within port limits and reports hazards such as depth changes and wrecks for UKHO documents.
• Coordinates with port security, maritime, and border-security agencies to secure the port.
• Monitors HSE compliance and HSSE licensing, and ensures ISPS Code adherence where applicable.
• Reviews third-party risk assessments, updates port navigational risk assessments, and oversees anti-pollution monitoring and enforcement.
• Supports emergency planning and investigates marine incidents, recommends corrective actions, and follows through on implementation.
• Coordinates wreckage removal and prepares monthly and annual marine-operations performance reports.

People and strategic responsibilities

• Determines departmental staffing needs and obtains approvals; evaluates, coaches, and develops team members.
• Provides training to Abu Dhabi Ports Group staff in areas of subject-matter expertise.
• Optimizes operations and identifies infrastructure improvements or expansions to accommodate larger vessels and improve efficiency.
• Develops safety, security, environmental, and navigational measures to prevent incidents, unauthorized access, and congestion.
• Collaborates with government agencies, shipping companies, port users, and local communities.
• Assists the Chief Harbour Master with maritime strategy and helps develop the departmental budget.

Education and certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Law, Navigation, Management, Business Administration, or a related field; a master’s degree is a plus.
• STCW, Chief Mate Certificate of Competency, and an approved leadership program are essential.

Experience and languages

• Minimum 10–12 years of experience in a similar role.
• Experience in port marine operations, master and pilotage, and port administration.
• Strong background in maritime law and navigation; experience in engineering, safety management, or environmental protection.
• Excellent English is required; Arabic is an added advantage.