Yes, fishing in Abu Dhabi is excellent thanks to the area’s calm waters and diverse marine life. The Gulf is home to species like kingfish, barracuda and grouper, making it a fantastic destination for both seasoned anglers and first-time fishers. You can even embark on a tuna fishing charter year round.

The official Annual Calendar of Fishing Regulations lists the fishing-related activities permitted in each month.

Tourists and visitors in Abu Dhabi do not need a permit when fishing with an officially licensed charter, as the operator holds the necessary authorisations. If you’re a UAE resident and plan to fish independently (not on a licensed charter), you’ll need a recreational fishing permit. You can easily apply for this online via the TAMM website.

Fishing without a valid permit in Abu Dhabi can result in fines starting from AED 1,000, with higher penalties for more serious or repeated offences. To avoid any legal issues and to help support sustainable fishing practices, it’s important to fish only with the correct authorisation or through a licensed charter provider, who will ensure all permits are in place.

Yes. As per Abu Dhabi Maritime’s official Marine Protected Area Visitor Guidelines, fishing is prohibited in several marine protected areas, including Saadiyat Marine National Park, Mangrove Marine National Park, and Ras Ghanadah. Inside some marine protected areas, like Marawah and Al Yasat, fishing is only allowed with a valid licence.