This week in the fabulous Dubai yacht charter location, nestled in the Middle East, saw fifteen participants complete the intensive Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) course. A joint venture by British Marine Federation (BMF), Global Marina Institute (GMI), as well as the Marina Industries Association (MIA), the course was attended by delegates from across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) course in Dubai

During the four days participants received invaluable training and networking opportunities allowing them to take the first step to becoming a Certified Marina Manager or Certified Marina Professional. The course covered the core competencies required for intermediate marina management, including health and safety, environmental management, marketing, finance, leadership and customer service. An important component of the course is the marina field trip which involved visits to Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai International Marine Club and Jumeirah Beach Hotel Marina.

Sarah Dhanda, Senior Federation Director, British Marine Federation said: “This is a great opportunity to support the standard of marina managers and professionals from across the world. The Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) course opens the door to a marina certification that is globally recognised in the marine industry. I anticipate the majority of participants will subsequently participate in the Advanced Marina Management Course.”

Banu Astrini, General Manager, Port of Sanda Kelapa in Indonesia, a delegate on the course, enthused: “The course provided excellent information needed for the operation of recreational marinas. I also found the networking and exchange of ideas very beneficial”.

Ali Al Fardan, Marina Manager at Amwaj Marina in Bahrain, another delegate, commented: “I have many ideas from the course to take back to the marina that I can apply to improve my marinas performance. I am eager to participate in the next Advanced Marina Managers Course to enhance my knowledge”.

Colin Bransgrove from MIA said: “This is the fourth IMM held this year. I believe this is an indicator of the good health of the marina industries across the globe and further evidence that marina owners are increasingly prepared to invest in the professional development of their marina staff.”