Dubai boasts a thriving fishing culture thanks to its proximity to the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The city offers various fishing experiences, including shore fishing, deep-sea fishing, and kayak fishing. You can expect to catch a variety of fish, including kingfish, hammour, dorado, cobia, and barracuda. Fishing in Dubai has emerged as one of the most popular outdoor activities for tourists and fishing enthusiasts in the Emirate. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner seeking a memorable fishing experience, Dubai provides a diverse range of options for an enjoyable fishing adventure.
Fishing in Dubai License
Before heading out to fish, tourists and residents need to obtain a fishing license from the Dubai Fisheries Department. The process is straightforward and can be done online or in person at the department's offices. You can also obtain the license from the municipality or with the help of a fishing tour company.
Types of Fishing in Dubai
- Deep-Sea Fishing: Embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition for a chance to catch larger game fish such as kingfish, sailfish, and tuna. Charter companies offer half-day or full-day deep-sea fishing trips equipped with experienced guides and the right fishing gear.
- Shore Fishing: For a more budget-friendly option, try shore fishing from various public beaches or designated fishing spots. All you need is a fishing rod, bait, and a good spot to cast your line.
- Kayak Fishing: Kayak fishing is gaining popularity in Dubai. It offers a unique experience, allowing you to venture into the deeper waters and explore the marine world up close. Guided kayak fishing tours are available for both beginners and experienced anglers.
- Guided Fishing Tours and Charters: Consider booking a guided fishing tour with a reputable fishing charter company. They provide the necessary equipment, expertise, and often take care of licenses, making your fishing experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
Fishing Places in Dubai
1 Jumeirah Beach Fishing Pier
This popular spot is perfect for shore fishing, especially during the early morning or late evening hours.
2. Dubai Marina
The marina offers opportunities for both shore and boat fishing, providing a chance to catch a variety of fish.
3. Hatta Dam
If freshwater fishing is of interest, Hatta Dam, located a short drive from Dubai, is known for its freshwater fish species.
4. Al Maktoum Bridge Fishing Spot
This spot, located near Al Maktoum Bridge, is popular among locals and tourists for shore fishing. It provides a relaxed setting for fishing, especially during the early morning or late afternoon.
5. Umm Suqeim Beach
Umm Suqeim Beach is a popular location for shore fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can cast their lines into the Arabian Gulf and have a chance to catch a variety of fish.
6. Dubai Creek
The historic Dubai Creek provides fishing opportunities, especially near the Al Garhoud Bridge area. Shore fishing and even kayak fishing can be enjoyable experiences here.
Cost of Fishing in Dubai
A solo or group fishing trip on a boat can cost you anywhere from AED 500 to AED 700 and above and varies among different companies depending on the services and time duration they offer. A complete family fishing cruise or a luxury fishing trip with all facilities is priced from AED 1500. The price also varies on weekdays, weekends, on and off-seasons.
Best Time for Fishing in Dubai
The best months to go fishing is from January to May. Summer is the best season to go for deep-sea fishing as the fish go deep into the sea when the water temperature at the beach becomes too high. The best time to go for deep-sea fishing is during sunrise, sunset, or full moon nights. The fish are plentiful during winter, enjoying the warmer temperature near the surface. Shore fishing is also quite common in Dubai, but it needs the right equipment and patience to have success.
What Type of Fish Can you Catch in Dubai?
- Blackfish
- Bluefish
- Porgy
- Sherry
- Sultan Ibrahim
- Hammour
- Cobia
- Fluke
- Flounder
- Barracuda
- Kingfish
- Tuna
- Travely
- Small shark
Fishing Charters & Operators in Dubai
1. Go Fishing
Address: Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Marina (+971 55 995 2346)Timings: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
2. ABSea Deep Sea Fishing Trips
Address: Berth 14, Fishing Harbor 1, Jumeirah 1 - Dubai (+971 52 899 6301)Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
3. Deep-Sea Fishing
Address: Umm Suqeim 2, Fishing Urber Port 2, Dubai (+971 50 350 9699)Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM
4. Dubai Fishing Trip
Address: 31 A Jumeirah Road, Al Manara, Dubai (+971 50 4501340)Timings: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. King Fisher
Address: Mina Rashid Marina, Port Rashid, Dubai (+971 55 180 4567)Timings: open 24 hours
6. Emirates Fishing Tour
Address: Fishing Harbour, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai (+971 52 840 24 21)Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
7. TYB Sport Fishing
Address: Dubai Marina Walk, next to Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant, opposite Spinneys Supermarket, Dubai (+971 05 2692 3620)Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
8. Ocean Adventures
Address: Port Rashid Marina Cubes - Dubai (+971 50 688 8975)Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
9. Luxury Yacht Charter
Address: Fishing Village 2, 31a street - Dubai (+971 50 163 9330)Timings: 6:00 AM to 4:30 AM
10. Nanje Yachts
Address: Marina Spinneys, Dubai Marina & Business Bay, Dubai (+971 56 851 8100)Timings: open 24 hours
Tips
- Most of these companies have online booking facilities, offering packages and discounts on fishing trips. While some are happy to rent you a boat and the equipment, some insist on their professional crew accompanying you for deep-sea fishing, trolling, casting, or jigging.
- If you are new to the hobby, get expert guidance on handling the fishing gear and capturing the big shots of the gulf waters (and also grilling your catch for dinner).
- If you're a beginner, it's advisable to opt for a guided fishing tour that provides all the necessary equipment. However, if you're an experienced angler, you can bring your gear or rent it from local fishing charters.
- Private trips cost more than group trips, but they may offer refreshments, fishing or snorkeling gear, and safety equipment while on a private trip.