Regulating the Use of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Onboard Small Ships
Within the framework of enhancing maritime safety and developing safe navigation for small ships, the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications issued Ministerial Decree No. 8 for 2025 (PDF, 710 KB - Arabic only) which serves as an amendment to Ministerial Decree No. 2 for 2021 regarding the registration, safety, and the procedures for obtaining a navigation permit for small ships with a gross tonnage of less than 150 tons. The amendment aims to regulate the use of Automatic Identification System (AIS) devices and mandates their installation on small ships, with the exception of jet skis.
What is an Automatic Identification System (AIS)?
It is a wireless transceiver device used to locate ships and facilitate real-time tracking, enhancing safety and control of navigation in territorial waters.
Safety Requirements
With the exception of jet skis, no registered small ship is permitted to sail without an installed, activated, and programed AIS device. As a basic safety requirement, it is mandatory to adhere to the designated cruising range of each AIS device.
How to Obtain the Device
1. Visit authorized device providers to have the device installed and programed.
2. Head to a Coast Guard service center to enter the device’s data into the system and complete the remaining procedures.
Device Transfer
The device may not be transferred to another ship without obtaining approval from the relevant directorate at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications in coordination with Coast Guard at the Ministry of Interior.
Device Categories
1. Category One: Includes AIS devices with limited specifications approved by Coast Guard at the Ministry of Interior, which corresponds to the first cruising range; this device is available from any private sector provider.
2. Category Two: Includes AIS devices with comprehensive specifications approved by the Coast Guard at the Ministry of Interior, which corresponds to the second cruising range; these devices are from H Al Dhaen Boats W.L.L.
For cruising range details, please refer to the below map.
Contact Us
For more information, you can contact the relevant directorate at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications via phone or WhatsApp at +973 17337979 or by email at small-ships@mtt.gov.bh.
