Abu Dhabi is one of the easiest places in the Gulf to try sea fishing on holiday. The water is calm for most of the year, the fishing spots are close to the city, and a private charter takes care of the boat, the gear and the rules. Here is what visitors should know.
What you need on the day
- Original passport or Emirates ID for every guest – the Coast Guard can check it.
- Comfortable clothes, a hat and sunscreen.
- Shoes with a good grip.
- A cool box if you want to take your catch back to your hotel or villa.
Do tourists need a fishing licence?
On a licensed charter boat, the boat operator works under its own permits and the captain makes sure the trip follows the rules. If you plan to fish on your own from the shore, check the current recreational fishing rules with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi before you go.
The main fishing rules
- Some species are protected during their breeding season.
- Many fish have a minimum size; smaller fish go back to the sea.
- Only rod-and-line fishing is used on our trips.
Your captain knows the current rules and releases any fish that must go back. See which fish you can expect on our fish species page.
How a private fishing trip works
- Choose a boat and send us your date and group size on WhatsApp.
- We confirm the time and share the meeting point.
- The crew prepares rods, bait and tackle and shows you how to fish.
- You fish, relax and head back with your catch.
Boats start from AED 375 per hour for the whole boat. Compare them on fishing boats & prices.
Plan your trip on WhatsApp
