How to Become a Deck Officer in Dubai (2026 Complete Guide)
Deck Officer in Dubai is one of the most rewarding career in maritime industry. It requires step-by-step approach. It has high salary, global level career and high demand in UAE's shipping sector. This is ideal for those candidates who are passionate to work at sea. In this complete guide we will cover everything in details, step-by-step process to become a deck officer in Dubai, salary of deck officer in Dubai, documents required, best courses, and helpful tips to become successful.
What is a Deck Officer?
A deck officer is also called as a navigation Officer. His duties and responsibilities include,
- Safe navigation of vessels
- Safety of crew and cargo
- Watchkeeping
- Communication with ports
Deck officer career path start from deck cadet. Below is the complete roadmap of becoming a deck officer in UAE.
Deck Cadet → 3rd Officer → 2nd Officer → Chief Officer → Captain 👨✈️
Step-by-Step Guide to Become Deck Officer in Dubai
Follow the step-by-step guide to become a deck officer in Dubai in2026, whether you are a beginner or experienced candidate.
1. Education Requirements
To start your journey as deck officer, you must have,
- High School Degree (Science Preferred)
- Diploma or Degree in Nautical sciences, maritime studies, and shipping or logistics
Top Institutes in UAE for deck officer courses
- Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy
- Sharjah Maritime Academy
2. Complete STCW Courses (Mandatory)
You must complete STCW certificate in Dubai. Without this you can not get a job in marine industry.
- Personal Survival Techniques
- Fire Fighting 🔥
- First Aid ⛑️
- Personal Safety & Responsibilities
- Survival Craft & Rescue Boats
These all are required before joining the ships and vessels.
3. Join as Deck Cadet (Sea Time)
This is the beginning of your career now. Join as a deck cadet first.
- Gain 12–36 months sea time
- Work onboard ships
- Learn real operations
This step is also known as one of the hardest step which helps in getting your first ship experience.
4. Get Seaman Book in Dubai
To work onboard in Dubai Maritime Industry,
- Apply for Seaman Book UAE
- Required documents:
- Passport
- Medical fitness certificate
- STCW certificates
5. Get CoC (Certificate of Competency UAE)
After a good sea time, apply for COC certificate.
- Apply through MOEI (UAE Ministry)
- Pass:
- Written exam
- Oral exam
After passing the exams you will recieve, OOW (Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch) license.
How Long Does It Take to become a deck officer in Dubai?
You need to qualify for these things before becoming a complete deck officer.
- Education: 2–3 years
- Sea Time: 1–3 years
Total years are round about 3 to 6, it may be less or more, depends upon you.
Cost to Become Deck Officer in UAE (2026)
Below is the average cost of fees and other certificates for becoming a deck officer in Dubai. Always check with training institutes for latest fees.
| Stage | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Maritime Course | 20,000 – 60,000 |
| STCW Courses | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Medical + Documents | 1,000 – 2,000 |
Your total investment may become around AED 25,000 to 70,000.
Deck Officer Salary in Dubai (2026)
Deck officer salary depends upon, sea time, experience level, certificates, and company. Below are the average estimated monthly salaries in Dubai as of 2026.
| Rank | Salary (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Deck Cadet | 1,500 – 3,000 AED |
| 3rd Officer | 8,000 – 12,000 AED |
| 2nd Officer | 12,000 – 18,000 AED |
| Chief Officer | 20,000 – 35,000 AED |
| Captain | 40,000+ AED 🚀 |
Best Maritime Institutes in UAE for Deck officer training
- Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy
- Sharjah Maritime Academy
- Dubai Maritime City Authority (Training Centers)
You can select the training institute according to your location and emirate. But always check that training centers are verified by Government authorites.
How to Get Deck Cadet Jobs in Dubai (REAL Tips)
Getting your first job as deck cadet is very tough. But here are some real helpful tips to start with.
- Apply to shipping companies directly
- Join cadet programs (BP, ADNOC, etc.)
- Use job portals like Naukrigulf
- Network with seafarers on LinkedIn
- Keep documents ready
👉 Read more:
🔗 https://marinecareersuae.com/marine-companies/best-shipping-recruitment-agencies-in-dubai-2026-guide-for-marine-jobs
Career Growth in Maritime Industry
By getting experience, skills and knowledge, you can become,
- Chief Officer
- Captain (Master Mariner)
- Marine Pilot
- Offshore DP Operator
👉 Read More:
How to become a marine pilot in Dubai in 2026 - Complete beginner guide
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not skip STCW certificate. It is mandatory
- Do not just apply to one company. Most people do this and sit in their room.
- Make sure you have a professional marine resume. If you dont have build with Marine CV Builder for free.
- Most people come in UAE but stop networking. It is very important to do networking and build connection. Do not forget the importance of netwroking.
Why Choose Dubai for Maritime Career?
Dubai has a premium infrastructure and a global hub for marine industry across Gulf region.
- Global shipping hub 🌐
- High salary packages 💰
- Tax-free income
- Strong career growth
Final Words
Becoming a deck officer in Dubai, need step-by-step process. You join as deck cadet, gain experience and skills, get STCW certificate and other required, apply for seaman book, and than your career grows. It is not like you just simply start as a deck officer. It is step-by-step approach. Dubai is an international hub for seafarers across the world. Join shipping companies in Dubai, submit your resume to deck crew by meeting them personally, gain experience and enjoy high salary and other benefits.
Dubai offers competitive benefits for marine candidates like high salaries, accommodation, health insurance, travel allowances and retirement plans. If you are looking for deck officer jobs in Dubai and UAE, Join our WhatsApp Group now (Free). Bookmark this guide and start your maritime career today!
