Dubai has a long fishing history, having grown from a small coastal village inhabited by pearl divers and fishermen to the world-famous city it is today. Flowing into the Arabian Gulf waters, the natural harbor has long drawn people to the region.
Even today, the city remains a trendy spot to cast your line, with a variety of experiences offered for enthusiasts – from deep sea fishing to kayak fishing. So everyone can pick something to their liking.
Although Dubai is a famous angling destination, you can’t just go to the next stretch of water and start casting the net. Citizens and residents must apply for an annual permit with Dubai Municipality to enjoy recreational activities at designated locations across the city in order to promote sustainability and prevent overfishing.
Even if you’re a professional angler or new to the sport who wants to dip your toe in the water, this post is for you.
Keep reading to know everything about fishing in Dubai – from the best trawling spots and seasons to fishing regulations and permits to follow. If you want to rent a fishing boat or yacht, then you can always reach out to Yeprent and get your craft without a hassle. Enjoy responsible fishing and a big catch!
The Best Time for Fishing in Dubai
Although there isn’t a fixed time for fishing in Dubai, knowing the optimal season can be useful, especially if you’re hunting for a particular catch. It all depends on different factors, such as the species of fish, weather conditions, and tides. So there are many things to consider before planning your fishing trip to Dubai:
- Season – The months between October and May are generally considered the ideal season for species like Tuna and King Mackerel, while the summer months between June and September are more suitable for Queenfish and Sailfish.
- Time of day – The best time of day for fishing is early morning or late afternoon. According to Fishingreminder, shallow water fishing is done at times with a low UV index. When the UV is high, stick to early mornings, late evenings, and shaded areas.
- Tides – Tides can also affect freshwater. According to Tideschart.com, the major fishing times are from 11:25 am to 1:25 pm during lunar transit (moon up), and from 11:51 pm to 1:51 am during opposing lunar transit (moon down).
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Although each season brings unique fishing opportunities to anglers, you can plan your trips better and increase your chances of a successful catch by understanding all the pitfalls.
Top Fishing Spots in Dubai
With more than 500 different species of fish, Dubai offers a variety of angling spots to explore – both from the shore and by boat. However, where you go depends on what you want to catch. From bridges to beaches, there are many great locations. Here are a few suggestions if you’re seeking some decent fishing areas in Dubai:
- Dubai Creek – This historic waterway is one of the most popular fishing locations. It is home to several species of fish, including Hammour, Kingfish, and Barracuda.
- Al Maktoum Bridge and Al Garhoud Bridge – These bridges are also famous areas in Dubai. They are known for their abundant fish population, including Kingfish, Cobia, and Queenfish.
- Jebel Ali Free Zone – This area is a great spot for deep-sea fishing and is home to several types of fish, including Tuna, Kingfish, and Barracuda.
- Jumeirah Fishing Harbor – This harbor is for kayak fishing and is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful views.
- Dubai Marina – This urban waterfront is another most visited spot in Dubai. It is home to several species of fish, including Kingfish, Cobia, and Queenfish.
- East Coast (from Dibba to Fujairah) – This area is known for its clear waters and is a great spot for deep-sea fishing.
- West Coast (from Ajman to RAK) – This area is also known for its clear waters and is a great spot for deep-sea fishing.
- Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi offers several spots for trawling, including the Abu Dhabi Breakwater, which is known for its abundant fish population.
It is significant to note that fishing rules and licenses may vary depending on the location you choose. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with local authorities before heading out to fish.
From 2016 the global fishing reels market size and type has been growing as shown in the graph below. It will continue to improve in the coming years of 2027 and therefore fishing in Dubai will keep attracting tourists looking for exotic fishing spots.
Fishing Regulations and Permits in Dubai
It is necessary to adhere to the fishing restrictions established by the local authorities in order to engage in angling activities in Dubai. These aim to maintain sustainable practices and preserve the marine environment. Anglers are to have a fishing license and permit in place, as well as comply with the permits:
- Fishing license – A fishing license is required for recreational activities in Dubai. The document is valid for one year and is renewable. You can apply for a recreational fishing license on the Dubai Municipality’s website, and it is free of charge.
- Permits – Individual fishing permits are only given to UAE nationals. Non-UAE nationals can obtain a recreational fishing license. It is relevant that rules and permits may vary depending on the location. It is always a good idea to check with local authorities before heading out to fish.
- Fishing regulations – The Dubai Municipality has set advisories to protect the marine environment and ensure sustainable fishing practices. Some of the rules include using only thread and hooks for recreational fishing, releasing undersized fish, and not angling in protected areas.
Overall, if you plan to go fishing in Dubai, make sure to obtain a license or permit, follow the regulations, and check with local authorities for any specific rules or restrictions in the area where you plan to fish.
Enjoy Your Best Catch in Dubai!
Anglers of all skill levels may find some great fishing places in Dubai. So grab your gear and set out for a fun and exciting day on the water at one of Dubai’s greatest fishing locations! Hope the above information will help you plan your next fishing trip effectively and responsibly.
