Getting a fishing license in Dubai is a simple process, and it’s essential for anyone who wants to enjoy the emirate’s coastline legally. The license helps protect marine life, supports sustainable fishing, and ensures residents follow UAE environmental regulations. Once approved, you can enjoy popular waterfront spots, from city beaches to more secluded coastal pockets, throughout the permitted fishing season.
In this guide, you can find out all about:
- Why is a fishing license required in Dubai?
- Who can apply for a fishing license?
- How to apply for a fishing license
- Validity and permissions
- Where you’re allowed to fish in Dubai
- Fishing rules and seasonal restrictions
- Renewal process for a fishing license in Dubai
- Penalties for fishing without a license
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Why is a fishing license required in Dubai?
Dubai’s marine ecosystem is carefully regulated to preserve fish populations and the emirate’s natural coastal balance.
- A valid licence prevents overfishing and ensures compliance with Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 and Federal Law No. 7 of 2016.
- Fishing without a licence can lead to fines of up to AED 1,000, so staying compliant is always the safer and more responsible choice.
You’ll find that many residents pair their licence with weekend trips to favourite shorelines such as Al Sufouh’s open waters, where casting a rod feels like part of the city’s relaxed outdoor rhythm.
Who can apply for a fishing license in Dubai?
A fishing license in Dubai is available to UAE citizens and residents. Applicants must be at least eighteen years old. Children below that age can fish without a licence, provided they follow all regulations.
Documents you’ll need
For UAE nationals:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID
- Passport-sized photograph
For residents:
- Emirates ID
- Passport with a valid residence visa
- Tenancy contract or title deed
- Latest DEWA bill
- Employment contract (if housing is provided by your employer)
If you plan to fish from a boat, you must also hold a valid boat licence.
How to apply for a fishing license in Dubai?
You can apply entirely online through the Dubai Municipality. The process is straightforward and typically takes around three working days.
Online application steps:
- Visit the Dubai Municipality website (dm.gov.ae).
- Select Services → Marine and Coastal Environment.
- Choose Recreational Fishing Licence (Line and Hooks).
- Log in using UAE Pass.
- Fill out your personal details.
- Upload required documents.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
- Submit the application.
In-Person application
For those who prefer in-person registration, you can visit the Environment Department at Dubai Municipality with your documents.
Licences remain free for residents, making this one of the few recreational permits in Dubai with no charge.
Fishing license in Dubai: Validity and permissions
A recreational fishing license in Dubai is valid for one year. It allows shore and boat fishing using a rod and line only. Methods such as nets, spearfishing, trawling, or drift nets are prohibited without separate approvals.
Many licensed residents love exploring new fishing spots beyond Dubai, too. If you’re in the mood for a short drive, the coastal hotspots in Umm Al Quwain are known for calmer waters and bigger catches.
Where you’re allowed to fish in Dubai
Fishing is only permitted in designated areas across the coast. Popular permitted zones include:
- Al Mamzar Creek
- Al Maktoum (Bur Dubai side)
- Creek Park and Al Garhoud (Deira side)
- Jumeirah beaches
- Umm Suqeim beaches
- Al Sufouh beaches
Families often enjoy spending time at beaches that offer both leisure and fishing access. Dubai shore fishing areas give a closer look at the best community-friendly coastlines where you can spend a full weekend.
Fishing rules and seasonal restrictions
Dubai follows a seasonal fishing calendar to protect breeding cycles.
| Period | Status |
| November – May | Open season (fishing allowed) |
| June – October | Closed season (no fishing permitted) |
Permitted gear and equipment
Only rods, lines, and hooks may be used. Spearfishing requires a separate permit and is subject to different regulations.
Catch limits and species protection
Size and bag restrictions apply to various fish species to ensure sustainable fishing practices. Certain protected species are prohibited from being caught, and catch limits are enforced to maintain marine biodiversity.
If you’re considering a boat trip, check out Dubai’s boat hire options, especially during peak fishing months when rental platforms become busy.
Renewal process for a fishing license in Dubai
Your fishing license in Dubai does not renew automatically. Once expired, simply submit a fresh online application using the same steps. Since the licence is free, most residents update it annually without hassle.
Penalties for fishing without a license
Fishing without a licence is strictly monitored. Penalties range from AED 500 to AED 1,000 depending on the violation. Fishing during the June-October closed season may also result in additional enforcement measures.
If you’re exploring the northern coastline on weekends, the UAQ waterfront clubs give a nice contrast between licensed recreational fishing zones and other family-friendly seaside activities.
Key takeaways
A fishing license in Dubai is free, easy to obtain, and essential for legal recreational fishing. You can apply online through Dubai Municipality, and approvals usually arrive within three working days.
The licence allows rod-and-line fishing from both shore and boat during the November–May season. Simply reapply annually when it expires. With designated zones, seasonal rules, and clear guidelines, fishing becomes a safe and enjoyable hobby for residents across the emirate.
FAQs
It’s entirely free for residents.
Around three working days via online submission.
Tourists cannot apply for a standard recreational licence, but they can book fishing trips through licensed operators who issue temporary permits as part of their packages.
You may face fines of AED 500-1,000, and fishing gear could be confiscated.
Children under eighteen can fish without a licence but must follow all other rules.
