The UAE SRR incorporates several key provisions to promote safer and more environmentally friendly ship recycling:

• Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) for new ships: Starting from 26 June 2025, all newly built ships under the UAE flag with a construction contract concluded on or after this date, or where the keel is laid or the ship reaches a similar construction stage, must have an IHM. Additionally, ships delivered after 26 December 2027 and those with 500 gross tonnage (GT) or above are also required to maintain an IHM on board. The inventory must identify all hazardous materials specified in Annex 1 & 2 including their location and approximate quantities.


• IHM Compliance for existing ships: Existing UAE-flagged ships must comply with IHM requirements by 26 June 2030 or before they go for recycling. For compliance, existing ships should have a plan detailing the visual/sampling checks to develop their IHM, following relevant IMO guidelines.


• Certification and Compliance: Ships operating in UAE waters or owned by UAE-based companies must be certified for IHM compliance, ensuring that shipowners have taken appropriate steps for environmentally sound recycling.


• Safe Recycling Practices: The UAE SRR emphasizes safe and environmentally sound ship recycling, with guidelines for ship recycling facilities to prioritize worker safety and prevent pollution. These guidelines align with best practices from the Hong Kong Convention, providing a robust framework for sustainable ship recycling.

• Enhanced Safety: By requiring IHM maintenance and certification, the regulation reduces risks during ship recycling, protecting the health and safety of workers involved in the process.


• Environmental Protection: With a focus on environmentally sound practices, the regulation helps protect the marine environment from hazardous materials, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry.


• Alignment with International Standards: The UAE SRR's alignment with the Hong Kong Convention ensures global compliance, fostering international cooperation in sustainable maritime practices.

Shipowners and operators in the UAE should prepare for the new regulation by ensuring compliance with IHM requirements, obtaining certifications, and choosing ship recycling facilities that meet the UAE SRR standards. We, Varuna Sentinels BV offer comprehensive IHM maintenance services to support shipowners in meeting these requirements. Their expertise in hazardous material inventory and commitment to environmental sustainability position them well to help shipowners prepare for the UAE SRR and other related regulations.

The UAE's Ship Recycling Regulation, set to take effect in 2025, represents a significant step towards sustainable maritime practices. By prioritizing safety and environmental protection, the regulation supports the broader goals of the Hong Kong Convention and promotes responsible ship recycling. Shipowners, operators, and industry stakeholders must take proactive steps to comply with the UAE SRR, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry.