When it comes to life at sea, staying connected isn’t just a convenience—it’s often a safety requirement. That’s where marine telephones come in. Whether it’s a yacht, a fishing boat, or a cargo vessel sailing out of Dubai’s busy ports, communication is always a top priority.
If you’ve ever wondered how boats talk to each other or stay in touch with land while they’re far out on the water, this post is for you. Let’s break it all down in simple terms.
What Exactly Is a Marine Telephone?
A marine telephone isn’t quite like the regular phone we use at home or carry in our pocket. It’s a special communication device that’s been built for use on the water. These phones are designed to handle long distances, interference from waves, and even bad weather.
Most marine phones use VHF (Very High Frequency) radios to send and receive voice signals. VHF is the most common communication system for boats and ships because it works well over water and is reliable in emergencies.
Why Marine Phones Are Important in Dubai
Dubai is a major coastal city with a massive shipping, fishing, and marine tourism industry. From commercial vessels at Jebel Ali Port to private yachts cruising around The Palm, marine communication is taken seriously here.
Marine telephones are considered essential equipment on most boats. They’re not just used for calling other vessels, but also for getting weather updates, contacting port authorities, or requesting emergency help.
In Dubai, strict marine safety rules are followed, and having proper communication gear on board is often required by law, especially for commercial or international routes.
How Marine Phones Work (Without the Tech Jargon)
You don’t have to be an engineer to understand how these phones work. Here’s the idea in plain language:
- The marine phone is usually connected to a VHF radio system.
- A signal is sent through radio waves, which travel well over open water.
- A set of marine channels (frequencies) is used for different types of calls—one for emergencies, another for talking to the coast guard, another for weather, and so on.
- Messages can be heard by others on the same channel, so conversations are usually short and clear.
Unlike mobile phones, marine radios don’t rely on towers. That’s why they’re often the only way to communicate when far out at sea.
Types of Marine Communication Devices Used in Dubai
There are a few different options used on boats in and around Dubai. The right one depends on the type of vessel and how far it travels.
VHF Marine Radios
These are the most common type. A fixed-mount VHF radio is often installed on the boat, while handheld VHF radios are used as backups or on smaller boats.
Satellite Phones
When boats travel far beyond the coast, VHF isn’t enough. In those cases, satellite marine phones are used. They can connect to satellites overhead and reach anywhere in the world—but they are more expensive.
MF/HF Radios
For very long-distance travel, medium and high-frequency radios are used. These are often installed on large commercial ships.
Features to Look For in a Marine Phone
When someone is new to marine communication, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. But a few key features are usually looked for by boat owners in Dubai:
- Water resistance – Because seawater and electronics don’t mix well.
- Clear audio – Messages need to be heard over wind, waves, and engine noise.
- Battery backup – For handheld models, battery life really matters.
- DSC (Digital Selective Calling) – A safety feature used to send distress signals with the push of a button.
Some phones also come with GPS features, allowing the exact location of the vessel to be shared in emergencies.
Where Marine Phones Are Usually Used in Dubai
In Dubai, marine telephones are commonly found in a few places:
- Yachts and leisure boats in Dubai Marina
- Fishing boats off the coast of Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah
- Cargo ships docked at Jebel Ali
- Jet skis or rescue teams along Dubai’s public beaches
In some cases, even water taxis and ferries operating in the Dubai Creek use marine communication systems to stay in touch with control centers.
Rules and Licensing in the UAE
Marine communication systems aren’t just plugged in and used casually. In the UAE, certain rules must be followed:
- Most marine radios need to be licensed by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
- Operators of marine radios may need to take a short training course on how to use them properly.
- Equipment must meet approved safety and technical standards.
These rules are in place to avoid signal interference and to make sure emergency channels stay clear when they’re needed most.
Common Questions About Marine Telephones
Can a normal mobile phone be used at sea?
It can be used near the shore, but signal coverage fades quickly once the boat moves further away. That’s why a marine phone is usually used instead.
Do all boats need a marine phone?
Not always. For very small, local-use boats, it might not be required—but it’s still recommended for safety. Larger or commercial vessels usually must have them on board.
Can weather updates be received through marine radios?
Yes, special weather channels are often broadcast on marine VHF systems. That’s especially useful during Dubai’s occasional sea storms or foggy conditions.
Final Thoughts
Marine telephones may sound like a complex subject at first, but in reality, they’re just smart tools that help people stay safe and connected on the water. In a coastal city like Dubai—where boating is a big part of life—it makes perfect sense that marine communication plays such a key role.
Whether it’s a yacht heading out for a sunset cruise or a fishing boat getting ready for an early morning trip, having a reliable marine phone on board can make all the difference.