Fishing is a hobby as old as time. Nothing says relaxing more than sitting on the shore of calming waters, waiting for the perfect bite. It’s an activity enjoyed worldwide and Abu Dhabi is no exception. There are many fishing spots in Abu Dhabi where you can enjoy this experience.
Fishing in Abu Dhabi
There are many things to know when looking to fish in Abu Dhabi. Most importantly, Abu Dhabi residents must get a fishing license from the Abu Dhabi Government TAMM portal.
Fishing License
Abu Dhabi residents can retain two different types of fishing licenses depending on their needs. These two fishing licenses are as follows:
- Recreational Annual Fishing Licence
- Recreational Weekly Fishing Licence
License holders can do surf fishing on the coasts of Abu Dhabi using threads, hooks and spearguns.
To get your license, open the Abu Dhabi TAMM portal, select the services tab on the TAMM portal and then select Recreational Annual/Weekly Fishing Licence.
Once you’re on the page, log in to the portal using your UAE pass, fill in the application and pay the required fee. If everything is in order, the license will be issued.
Top Fishing Spots in Abu Dhabi
When looking for spots to catch fish in Abu Dhabi, it’s important to know where and when you’re going out fishing. Generally, the best time to fish is between late October and May.
As for where to fish, there are two types of fishing spots in Abu Dhabi. The island shores and the deep sea. The island shores are a great place to find the smaller fish, such as:
- Bream
- Snapper
- Puffer Fish
- Trevally
- Leatherjacket
- Queenfish
On the other hand, the deep sea is excellent for fish like:
- Barracuda
- Emperor
- Cobia
- Kingfish
- Queenfish
It is also important to know that the Abu Dhabi government has banned the fishing of specific fish to protect marine life. These species are:
- Shark
- Sawfish
- Guitarfish
- Wedgefish
- Ray
Following are some of the best fishing spots in Abu Dhabi
Al Bateen Beach
Nothing is more relaxing than taking your fishing equipment and huddling down at the Hudayriat bridge near Hudayriat Island for a catch. The Al Bateen beach offers plenty of scenic views and a blissful fishing environment with a fair amount of small fish. Hudayriat Island is among the best islands in Abu Dhabi.
Yas Island
Believe it or not, the ever-populated Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is a fantastic fishing spot. Huddle up near the iron bridge and you’ll find plenty of local fish, such as Barracuda and Queenfish. Once you’re done fishing, maybe stop by Yas Island’s many attractions like Yas Waterworld or the Ferrari World.
Al Raha Beach
Located close to Yas Island, Al Raha Beach is another great fishing spot in Abu Dhabi. Nearby are destinations such as the Al Raha Mall and the Al Raha Hotel, which makes it a great spot to stay as well. The waters of Al Raha Beach make for some great catches. Other than that, it’s a great spot if you want to participate in other activities such as waterskiing and wakeboarding.
There’s a reason why Al Raha Beach is among the best beaches in Abu Dhabi.
Hameem Beach
Hameem Beach is a fantastic place to fish in Abu Dhabi and catch some Mackerel. It’s a beautiful spot that offers a relaxing, scenic environment. Just don’t fish near any of the “No Fishing” signs and be vary of current regulations about fishing.
Al Aryam Island
The local waters of Al Aryam Island are yet another great fishing spot in Abu Dhabi. Take a boat and enjoy the blissful vistas while catching plenty of fish, such as the Queenfish, Barracuda, Spangled Emperor and Mackerel.
We recommend taking a fishing charter to explore the local waters of the island as land-based fishing is restricted here.
Al Rahba
Prepare yourself for a breathtaking view of the sunset at Al Rahba, a fishing spot that is often used by professionals. The fishing spot is located in Ras Sadr, near Al Sheleilah Island. The Al Rahba fishing spot is widely known for its strong streams and a large variety of local fish.
Eastern Mangroves
Take a kayak and sail through the waters of the eastern mangroves for a fishing experience that’s deeply calming. Eastern Mangroves is among the most widely recognized fishing spots in Abu Dhabi thanks to its serene nature and a wide variety of fish to catch.
Fishing in the dense mangrove forests surrounded by the soothing sounds of birds is something that is a must for every aspiring fisherman!
FAQs
Abu Dhabi residents can use the Abu Dhabi Government TAMM portal to claim an annual or weekly fishing license.
The Abu Dhabi government has banned catching sharks, sawfishes, wedgefishes, guitarfishes and rays.
Abu Dhabi is rich in fantastic fishing spots that will offer you a good time catching fish with your family, friends, or even yourself.
For more on Abu Dhabi, here are the best beaches in Abu Dhabi.
