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Measures introduced to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have brought widespread disruption to normal crew change operations, with many seafarers prevented from disembarking or joining their vessels.
Marc Nordblad, GAC Abu Dhabi’s Business Manager – Shipping, presents his guide to the current status of crew changes in the country including: where they may be conducted; what restrictions are in place; what requirements must be met; and how many changes GAC Abu Dhabi has handled to date.
What challenges and restrictions do shipowners/operators face when arranging crew changes in Abu Dhabi, and how have your local contacts helped to ease the situation?
COVID-19 has had a profound impact on all industries across the world and Shipping is no different. Ship owners are facing challenges not normally experienced and empowering vessel crew onboard to adapt to long stays at sea.
Ports in Abu Dhabi have restricted the movement of crew on-signing and off-signing. Crew are not allowed to disembark without prior approval. This, combined with the restriction of movement in/out of the country via road borders and airports, also restricts any possibility of on-signing. Should a vessel have a medical emergency on board, approval must first be granted to allow the seaman into the country. This approval process can be lengthy and involves several government entities.
Further, the road border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi has been closed for the past few weeks, posing a challenge for certain suppliers, business and crew to transit between the Emirates. Lately, we are seeing signs that the road border may begin to open up slowly.
GAC Abu Dhabi continues to maintain the strongest of relationships with all local government authorities, suppliers and customers during this time. This has allowed us to be up-to-date with the latest developments and has given our customers the confidence that we are ready to assist and support 24/7, no matter what the challenges.
How many crew change operations have you successfully executed since COVID-19 lockdowns started?
Since the restrictions have been imposed, not many crew changes have been possible in Abu Dhabi ports. In that time, we have conducted less than 5 crew change operations of various scales. These were successfully completed only under very strict guidelines, with special permissions and approval from governing bodies. For example, these operations included launch hires and chartered flights in order to be performed successfully.
Are there any specific crew change examples you wish to highlight?
During the COVID-19 era, every crew change is exceptional with its own set of unique requirements. In Abu Dhabi, there are many formalities to meet but we have the action plans and contacts in place to facilitate such operations. We have changed crew through traditional practices, but have also hired launch boats, chartered flights and dispatched medical personnel together with Abu Dhabi Port support.
There is great uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic; how long it will last, and what its impact will be. How are you managing this from a crew change and lay-ups perspective? What are your expectations for the coming months?
Only time will tell. We continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders. Our customers and vessel owners are comforted by the fact that GAC Abu Dhabi is on the ground exploring all scenarios to support their business. It is important to remember that ship agents are limited by the regulations that remain in place, but we continue to stay up-to-date on all areas and develop response plans for anticipated scenarios.
Is there anything else you wish to add?
COVID-19 has had an impact on all of us but with the support of all GAC offices, we will outlast the storm.
GAC Abu Dhabi would like to reiterate our support for our colleagues and customers around the globe. We are open for business, maintaining close relationships and strong business connections in our local market.
Whenever and wherever, GAC Abu Dhabi is here for you.
For the latest updates about COVID-19 status/measures and the impact on shipping, including crew changes, in countries around the world, go to www.gac.com/coronavirus.