Abu Dhabi rolls out new fishing rules with seasonal changes and limited exceptions
Temporary allowance granted for Badah catch this year
ABU DHABI – Under the directives of Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi has begun implementing two ministerial decisions that significantly reshape fishing regulations across the emirate for 2026.
The measures, issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in coordination with the agency, introduce updates aimed at balancing sustainability with food supply needs.
The regulatory overhaul centres on Ministerial Decisions No. (74) and No. (75), both of which introduce changes to existing frameworks governing fishing and the sale of certain species.
Key changes
Ministerial Decision No. (74) revokes a previous rule that restricted the fishing and sale of selected fish species during their breeding season. The removal of this earlier restriction allows authorities to implement an updated and more flexible regulatory framework aligned with current environmental data.
Under the directives of Hamdan bin Zayed, @EADTweets has implemented two decisions issued by the @MoCCaEUAE, reflecting national efforts to balance marine resource sustainability with food security, and improve fish stock indicators for species in Abu Dhabi waters. pic.twitter.com/q54SCWHhyx
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) April 27, 2026
In parallel, Decision No. (75) introduces a temporary exception specific to the Longtail Silver Biddy fish, locally known as Badah. The decision permits both the fishing and sale of this species within Abu Dhabi waters for the remainder of 2026. Authorities have clarified that this is a time-bound allowance, applicable only for the current season.
Officials emphasise that the exemption for Badah does not signal a permanent policy shift. The allowance is subject to continuous scientific monitoring and review, with future decisions dependent on stock sustainability indicators.
According to the agency, the updated measures are grounded in improved fish stock assessments across Abu Dhabi’s marine environment. These assessments are supported by scientific research and field studies, indicating a recovery or stabilisation in certain species populations.
The decisions also aim to support fishermen and workers within the sector, while improving the availability of fish in local markets. By adjusting seasonal restrictions and allowing controlled access to specific species, authorities are seeking to ensure both ecological balance and economic continuity.
As the emirate’s regulatory authority, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi will oversee compliance with the updated rules. Monitoring and enforcement mechanisms remain in place to ensure that fishing practices align with sustainability objectives and legal requirements.
The agency has called on fishermen, traders and other stakeholders to adhere strictly to the revised regulations and to cooperate with relevant authorities. The measures form part of broader national efforts to preserve marine biodiversity while maintaining food security across the UAE.