Spearfishing in United Arab Emirates
Including Fujairah Coast and Ras Al Khaimah Coast. On the map.
The vibe
Spearfishing here is not a casual visitor pursuit, as strict local regulations and conservation laws heavily restrict unauthorized harvesting along the coast. For those who navigate the proper bureaucratic channels through licensed operators, the underwater hunting focuses on pelagic species lingering around deeper offshore structures. The visitor trip requires thorough advance planning and adherence to strict bag limits rather than showing up on a whim.
specialist fishing licence and local sponsor permit
Fujairah Coast
Fujairah Emirate
The Fujairah coastline offers the most diverse marine environment in the UAE, featuring rocky outcrops and deep-water drop-offs that attract pelagic species. It is a premier destination for those seeking to encounter kingfish, cobia, and various snapper species in the Gulf of Oman.
Access. Spearfishing is primarily boat-based here. There are several local charter operators in Dibba and Fujairah city that cater specifically to spearfishermen, providing access to offshore reefs and pinnacles.
Notes. Spearfishing is legal but strictly regulated by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. A valid fishing permit is required, and there are strict size and bag limits for various species. Spear-guns must be declared and kept in accordance with local maritime laws; always check current local regulations before heading out.
Ras Al Khaimah Coast
Ras al-Khaimah Emirate
Fadi Fayad Al Taoba / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
The northernmost UAE emirate wraps a long Arabian Gulf coastline of sandy bays, rocky ledges, and nearshore reef with queenfish, bream, grouper, and occasional pelagics. Calmer leeward conditions along the Al Rams and coastal headlands suit both shore entries and small-boat reef days.
Access. Recreational fishing licences (~AED 110) via the Environment Protection and Development Authority on the Tamm platform. Local charter boats operate from RAK marinas; shore spearfishing is possible from quieter northern coves on calm days—mostly DIY with local knowledge.
Notes. Freediving spearfishing permitted with emirate recreational licence; scuba spearfishing prohibited. Stay outside marine protected areas and within Hadaq-mapped permitted zones. Federal encircling-net bans June–October and species-specific closures apply.