The entry of marine vessels, personal water scooters (jet skis) and swimming are prohibited in the Doha Corniche area, in order to prevent accidents, an official has said.

“Approaching, fishing, or engaging in recreational or marine activities in the restricted areas is prohibited and the specified distance for each restricted area must be adhered to,” explained Lt. Col. Ahmed Ali Saad from the General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security.

He was addressing a recent awareness webinar titled ‘General Guidelines for Seagoers, Boat Owners, and Fishermen,’ organised by the Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Interior in association with the General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security.

“Seagoers should observe a minimum distance of 300m from private coastal properties and residences, 2.5km from the seafront near the coastal industrial facilities, 300m from the seafront at Ras Bu Abhoud Plant, coral reefs when using fishing nets, from diplomatic areas and military bases and 500m from petroleum facilities on the seafront.

“Fishing or engaging in any activity that obstructs maritime navigation or blocks channels and passages is prohibited at Doha Port, Mesaieed Port and Ras Laffan Port to ensure safe and smooth marine traffic at maritime entrances and navigation channels," he said.

Lt Col Saad urged all seagoers, including fishermen, boat, and ship owners, to strictly refrain from entering or approaching restricted maritime areas under any circumstances. “Restricted areas in the waters of Qatar are designated for reasons of national security, public safety or the protection of vital and environmental facilities. Entering these areas constitutes a clear violation of applicable maritime laws and regulations and exposes offenders to legal accountability,” he said.

The official asked seagoers to respect areas designated for swimming and tourists, and to avoid entering restricted zones. Keep the marine environment clean and free from pollution. "If you notice any floating object on the water while at sea, it may be a mine; therefore, it must be reported immediately to the General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security,” he added.