Fishing in Abu Dhabi - Highlights, Best Places etc

Morning fishing in the sea can be seen gathering an interest off the coast of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is famous for all the tourist spots and loads of water sports, but have you ever tried your hand at fishing in this area? This is your time to have some holiday fun. Fishing is not as popular as other activities, but its definitely been picking up over the past few years. 

The Middle East seems more of angling than fishing. Angling uses an angled hook with bait as compared to a spear attached to a reel as done in fishing. 

The sport has seen locals and tourists coming together through Facebook in a large group on weekends and taking it a notch above. The initiators of spreading the idea of angling in Abu Dhabi, have been successful in distributing the information and knowledge about the area to like-minded enthusiasts. The fishing community has grown largely as compared to a decade ago. The enthusiasts currently practising on a broad scale in the area make sure to use all kinds of environment-friendly equipment and techniques to preserve nature. The best part is that not a single item is left behind and they make sure they clean up and don’t litter in the sea or the area.

Best time to Go Fishing in Abu Dhabi:
Regular Spots: Morning and evening ( for sunset)
Eastern Mangroves: Evening
Cost: AED 30 for a one week license, AED 1600 for 5 people

Permits for Fishing in Abu Dhabi 

Fishing in Abu Dhabi requires a license and proper equipment to start. You would only require a license if you want to go fishing on your own without the help of a tour operator. We suggest you book your fishing trip through an operator as the equipment, snacks, license, is all taken care of. 

Licenses are issued to persons above the age of 18 from the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency at a cost of AED 30 for a week and below are documents required for getting a license

Passport Photocopy
Passport size photographs
Photo ID

Fishing Competition

Abu Dhabi sees a quarterly tournament, The Abu Dhabi Fishing Tournament,  where enthusiasts and keen tourists can try their hand at acquiring the largest catch in the category in a stipulated time period bagging the prize.  The tournament takes place at The Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club and the next face-off will take place on the 5th and 6th of January, 2020. 

Types of Catch When Going Fishing in Abu Dhabi

Hamour, trevally and barracuda are the most sought after fish in the region and are in abundance as well due to the temperature and weather conditions. The Arabian Gulf is connected to the Indian Ocean is also a reason for the massive population of these fish in the area. The Gulf is home to various types and varieties of fish like cobia, kingfish, spangled emperor, spotted queenfish, black bream thanks to the warm weather. However, one cannot fish without permission and anywhere felt like. Abu Dhabi has designated fishing zones, where boats and guides are bookable for a few hours along with an issue of license and equipment. 

Along the shored of the capital you are bound to find tuna, queenfish, kingfish, but venturing into the deep sea will bring you better catch like the giant trevally, blue and white marlin and Shari. 

Spots For Fishing in Abu Dhabi

1. Al Aryam

The most well-known spot is Al Aryam. Located to the west coast of Abu Dhabi you can find mackerels and breams here. The view of the sea from here is breathtaking and is also a natural habitat for flamingoes. However, Al Aryam is quite crowded on most days of the week. 

2. Al Rahba

The best view from Al Rahba is of the sunset and the tide coming in during the evenings. The stream is very strong is this area and is used mostly by professionals. 

3. ICAD II

ICAD II situated just off Taif road is an ideal overnight camping and fishing spot. Frequented by the most by tourists, the area has plenty of charter boat services and camping companies. ICAD II does not have any markets or stores in the area, so we suggest you carry enough food and water to enjoy your trip.

4. Eastern Mangroves

Fishing in a kayak, sailing through the dense mangrove forests and spotting the fish you want to catch. One-off the quieter areas of the city, it is the perfect spot for fishing. Plenty of birds to watch and fish to catch, the serene environment will try its best to hold you back. Situated just a few metres away from Mushrif Mall, the mangroves are a must-visit. 

Fishing in Abu Dhabi can be extremely fun and exciting for solo as well as family entertainment. It’s the perfect way to spend your evening in the city and eat your own fresh catch for dinner.