In a wake of bad news for the jet skiers, authorities in Dubai have banned jet skis from Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Harbour as of now. If anyone is found doing the activity in the area, a fine of up to AED500 per jet ski would be imposed.

The ban has been imposed after residents complained about out-of-control jet skis near designated swimming zones.

The news was announced by Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) as they put out a notice for the fellow skiers. “This is to inform all stations that jet skis are strictly prohibited inside Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Harbour areas,” the DMCA notice read.

“Jet skis shall not enter the areas and offenders will be strictly penalized. Owners, agents, charters, marinas, yacht club, and recreational sailing organisations shall ensure that the details of this circular are made known to the owners or persons in charge of their vessels.”

Previously, the authorities had imposed a speed limit for one's skiing and had restricted it to a 4-knot speed limit on the island’s waterways. However, this rule was hardly followed. As the skiing enthusiasts ignored the speed limit, and residents were concerned there would be more accidents with jet skis running into swimmers, canoers, and bathers.

Due to this ignorance, incidents have taken place in the past, of which one death of a man was reported and another was injured during a high-speed crash in the area last December.

But despite the warnings and speed limitations of jet skis continuing to race and take part in high-speed drag races, the authorities have decided to take a stringent step and DMCA has imposed the ban on the water sports altogether.