23 Jan, 2025 Sample Category

How to Get Fishing License in Dubai?

Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors visit Dubai to go fishing. Unregulated, this can seriously harm marine life in the sea. It is why the government has set rules about fishing, although they are not convoluted. Everybody who fishes needs a fishing license in Dubai. Fishing without appropriate permissions could result in a punishment of up to 1000 dirhams. Only UAE residents and nationals have individual fishing permits. Even then, UAE residents only get a professional fishing license.

Obtaining a fishing license in Dubai requires some necessary actions. First, go to the official website of the Dubai Municipality. Complete the application form with your personal information and send documentation proving your residence or Emirati ID. Being a UAE resident means you do not pay any fees. The license is valid for one year. Dubai authorities let fishing between November and May.

What is a Dubai Fishing License?

Dubai is considered one of the most well-known sailfish locations worldwide. Fishing has always been a part of the local culture, so it hosts seafarers and sea fishing fans throughout the Middle East. Fishing in the UAE is an art that calls for mastery. Techniques for a great catch often utilised by UAE fishermen are angling, using a hook, netting, and trapping. But deep-sea fishing would be ideal if you want the best catch, a simple adventure drawing travellers from around the world to the Middle East.

However, visitors can get temporary permission to visit a fishing license company. Many companies provide fishing expeditions in Dubai to simplify problems. The benefit is paying for a boat, a captain, and a crew with a UAE fishing license. They can locate the fish and, when necessary, assist with hook one.

Categories of Fishing Licenses

Find out how to obtain a Dubai fishing license. Fishing trips on private yachts in Dubai are permitted in two varieties.

1. Recreational Fishing License

This fishing license entitles the holder to fish in the specified areas of Dubai's coastal waterways. You can fish from a boat using a fishing rod or a line. Requirements for a recreational fishing license consist of the following:

Passport copy and Emirates ID.
High-quality application photos.
Boat license for the intended use of fish using the boat.

Should you not be a UAE resident, you will have to provide:

DEWA Electricity Bill, issued in the applicant's name.
Employment contract, in case of the housing supplied by the company.
Proof of accommodation (Rental contract/property ownership papers).

Dubai's annual recreational fishing license is valid for one year and can be obtained for free. Visitors can also be granted a one-week fishing license. For further information, visit the Environment Department's office. You can apply for a Dubai fishing license online using the Dubai Municipality website. Remember also that this license only lets you fish from November to May.

2. Artisanal Fishing License in Dubai

Only UAE citizens, especially national artesian fishermen, are awarded this license. It lets you apply conventional techniques and small-scale technical fishing methods. In addition to local fishing authority clearance, you will need a boat testing certificate from the Coast Guard-Fourth Squadron, a service application form, and a permission letter from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Every owner of an artisan fishing license is free to fish in designated areas.

How Much Do Fishing Licenses Cost?

The annual recreational fishing license is free and available in Dubai. Besides, the government grants visitors a one-week fishing license. Thus, there is no charge in Dubai necessary. It will cost 50 Dirhams if you live in Fujairah or Sharjah. In Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, the fee comes to 110 Dirhams. With 120 Dirhams, Abu Dhabi is the most costly city in this respect.

Dubai officials do not require enthusiasts to renew a fishing license. These licenses or permissions run for one year. If the license has expired, you can seek a new one using the same procedures as your first one.

Guidelines and Laws

To preserve its aquatic life, Dubai has tight fishing rules. Recreational fishing allows fishing only in approved areas using particular tools, including rods and lines. Different species have catch limits for size and bag restrictions. Tight fishing rules safeguard Dubai's maritime ecology. Essential policies and guidelines comprise:

1. Designated Zones and Gear

Fishing is permitted only in designated zones, including Al Mamzar Creek, Al Maktoum (Bur Dubai side), Creek Park & Al Garhoud Bridges (Deira side), Jumeirah, and Umm Suqeim and Al Sufouh beaches. Recreational fishing only allows particular equipment like poles and lines. Trawling, nylon, drift, and bottom-settling nets are especially forbidden.

2. Catch Limits and Restrictions

Catch limits, which include size and bag restrictions, benefit different species and guarantee sustainable fishing methods. Seasonal closures guard fish during their reproductive season from June to October, enabling fishing only from November to May.

3. Licencing Policies

All fishermen must have a current legal fishing license. Spearfishing calls for a separate license.

4. Environmental Policies

All fishermen must follow environmental rules to protect Dubai's aquatic life. Federal Law No. 23 lists the guidelines safeguarding UAE aquatic resources and includes the following: Except for scientific research, extracting sponges, coral reefs, and oysters is restricted; capturing sea turtles, sea cows, whales, and other sea animals or altering their environment and gathering their eggs is outlawed; and some fishing techniques and equipment are not authorised. These rules encourage responsible and fun leisure fishing by safeguarding sustainable fishing methods and marine life conservation in Dubai's seas.

How Do You Renew a Fishing License in Dubai?

Dubai authorities do not require the renewal of fishing licenses. These licenses are good for one year; upon expiration, you must apply for a new one using the same processes as the first one. Seasonal closures guard fish during their spawning season. One must have a current fishing license; spearfishing requires a different license. Those who violate pay fines and have their equipment seized. All fishermen follow environmental rules for Dubai's aquatic life.

Things You Need to Know Before Applying for a Dubai Fishing License

You must know the criteria before applying for any fishing license in Dubai; otherwise, the application will be turned down completely. Keep in mind that:

Applicants must be nationals or residents of Dubai; they must be eighteen or above.
Contact the offices of the Environment Department at 800-900 or the Dubai Municipality office to find all the information required.

Top Fishing Spots in Dubai

Your fishing license allows you to fish at these fishing spots in Dubai:

1. Dubai Creek

An old and famous fishing area in Dubai is Dubai Creek. Novice and seasoned fishermen seeking a quiet fishing environment will find the perfect fit from this natural seaside inlet. Dubai's ideal place for fishing in the creek is home to many fish species on its tranquil waters.

2. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is popular for shore fishing in Dubai. Its length of sandy beach gives enough area for casting your line. Families and beginners looking to fish in Dubai will find the calm surroundings perfect.

3. Parks Al Mamzar Beach

Al Mamzar Beach Park is popular among residents for fishing and picnicking. Perfect for a leisurely day of fishing in Dubai, the park presents a lovely scene with beautifully kept fishing areas.

4. Dubai Marina

Besides being a popular tourist destination, Dubai Marina is a great fishing ground. Larger fish drawn by the marina's deep waters present an intriguing challenge for fishermen. It's a perfect spot for fishing in Dubai, with simple access and breathtaking city views.

5. Arabian Gulf

Deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf is necessary for anyone seeking an exciting fishing trip. The abundant big, firm fish in the rich waters provide an adrenaline-pushing challenge for those fishing in Dubai.

To suit business team development and private cruise requirements, MAS Yachts provides yachts and fishing boats. Go fishing whether your preferred method is offshore or deep sea fishing, if you enjoy big game or night fishing, or if you want some sun, sea, sand, and an excellent catch! Even right at the end of the day, you can cook your net on the yacht.

Conclusion

Getting a fishing license in Dubai requires an online application and documentation submission. All fishing operations require a valid permit; hence, careful fishing methods are vital to protect Dubai's rich marine life. Thus, obtain your license and start an exciting fishing trip in the lovely seas of Dubai.

FAQs

How to Get a Fishing License in Dubai?

People throughout the UAE find great fishing grounds in Dubai. However, declining fish counts prompted the government to act in specific ways to prevent further environmental disturbance. Anyone who wants to fish in Dubai must have a license regardless of the species.

Is Fishing Allowed in Dubai for Tourists?

Only residents and citizens can apply for a fishing license in Dubai. Visitors must pass licensed suppliers to fish in Dubai. Fishing without a permit can result in fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 1,000.