How to get a fishing licence in Dubai
Dubai has no shortage of activities for both residents and tourists to enjoy. Thanks to its ideal coastal location, there are plenty of activities for beachgoers and water lovers, including kayaking, fishing and more. Fishing also holds cultural and historical significance in the UAE as it is one of the oldest professions. Although fishing is allowed throughout the year, a licence is required to be able to fish in Dubai. If you’re interested in finding a catch, here’s how you can get a fishing licence in Dubai.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FISHING IN DUBAI
For the sake of the environment and preserving the population of native fish species in the sea, the government has made it mandatory for people to obtain a Dubai fishing license.
Fishing without a licence can result in a fine of AED 500 to AED 1,000. Unless you have hired a guide or tourist agency, you will need the permit to fish independently.
TYPES OF FISHING LICENCES
Want to know how to get a fishing licence in Dubai? There are two different types of fishing permits in Dubai.
RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENCE
This type of fishing licence gives the licence holder permission to fish in the designated areas in the coastal waters of Dubai. You can fish from a boat using either a fishing rod or line. Documents needed for a recreational fishing licence include:
- Passport copy & Emirates ID
- High-resolution photographs of the applicant
- Boat licence, for the intent to fish using the boat.
If you are not a UAE citizen, you’ll have to provide:
- Proof of accommodation (Rental contract/property ownership papers)
- DEWA Electricity Bill, issued in the applicant’s name
- Employment contract, in case of housing provided by the employer
The annual recreational fishing license in Dubai can be obtained for free and has one-year validity. Also, a one-week fishing permit can be issued to tourists. You can visit the office of the Environment Department for more information.
You may apply for a Dubai fishing licence online using the Dubai Municipality website. Another thing to remember is that this licence only permits you to fish from November to May.
The process of applying for a fishing licence in Dubai has been streamlined for artisan fishers.
ARTISANAL FISHING LICENCE
This type of licence is only issued to UAE nationals, specifically national artesian fishers. It permits you to use small-scale technological fishing practices and traditional methods.
Besides approval from the local fishing authority, you will need:
- Service Application Form
- Approval letter from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
- Boat Testing Certificate from Coast Guard – Fourth Squadron.
All artisanal fishing licence holders are allowed to fish at specific spots.
THINGS YOU MUST KNOW BEFORE APPLYING FOR A DUBAI FISHING LICENCE
Before applying for any of the two types of fishing licences in Dubai, you must know the requirements; otherwise, the application will be rejected outright.
Remember that:
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
- Applicants must be citizens or residents of Dubai.
You can find all the information you need at the Dubai Municipality office and the office of the Environment Department, which can be contacted at 800-900.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHICH ARE THE MOST POPULAR PERMITTED FISHING SPOTS IN DUBAI?
Now that you know all about getting a fishing licence in Dubai, here are the spots where you can enjoy it the most:
- Jumeirah
- Al Seef
- Dubai Creek
- Al Maktoum Bridge
- Al Garhoud Bridge
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FISHING IN THE UAE?
Check our guides on fishing in Dubai or fishing in Abu Dhabi before you plan a fishing trip.
If you want to explore other pursuits for water lovers, you can learn about all the fun beach activities in Dubai or discover some exciting water sports in Dubai. There is something for everyone!
