What is an AB Seaman (Able Bodied Seaman)?
An AB Seaman (Able Bodied Seaman) is a deck rating who has demonstrated proficiency in basic seamanship skills and accumulated a minimum of 18 months sea service as an OS (Ordinary Seaman). ABs perform bridge watch duties, deck maintenance, mooring operations, cargo handling, and emergency response roles.
AB vs OS vs Bosun
- OS (Ordinary Seaman) — entry level deck rating
- AB (Able Bodied Seaman) — qualified deck rating with 18+ months experience
- Bosun — senior deck rating, supervises AB and OS crew
AB Salary in UAE
ABs in the UAE maritime sector typically earn AED 7,000 to AED 11,000 per month. Offshore vessel ABs on rotation schedules may earn differently.
