United Arab Emirates is home to some of the rarest fish in the world. Located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf and very rich in fish supply. It consumes both local and imported fish yearly. The fish markets in UAE are evergreen, busy in everyday trading and supplying high-quality fish all around the year. Also, Dubai was once recognized as a fishing village which has now been transformed into a futuristic city.
The seafood in the restaurants is superb, fresh and simply irresistible. The fish supplied to these restaurants mostly comes from fish markets nearby. UAE has quite a large number of fish markets that are popular for their seafood supply to both locals and tourists.
Fish Markets in United Arab Emirates
UAE is one of the leading seafood consumers in the region and they have plenty of fish to meet that demand. According to the local statistics, people in Emirates consume 24 kg per person annually which is higher than worldwide 20kg per person consumption.
As the United Arab Emirates has diverse residents from all over the globe, the demand for seafood is high. Tourism has also boosted fish demand significantly.
Some important fish markets in the region are
Fujairah Fish Market
Located at 49F3+CQW, Al ‘Uwaid, Fujairah City, this market operates between 5:00 am to 1:00 pm with varying time slots for each day.
This place doesn’t only sell fish but seafood of all kinds and at very reasonable rates. From Crabs, lobsters, squids and octopuses to exotic catches such as kingfish and red snapper, this market has it all.
Here you will get fresh fish without any chemicals. The seafood comes directly from fishermen ensuring quality and freshness. The price is generally lower but also depends on your bargaining skills. Usually, you will find fish starting from 1 AED per kilo. You can buy the fish and then get it cleaned in the cleaning section.
The market overall is very clean and hygienic. They ensure maintaining high hygiene standards. Although it’s a very busy market, being a tourist you enjoy the hustling and bustling going around. You can even talk to vendors to get insight about fish variety and it will be a fun experience to have a lively chat with them.
Overall, filled with fish aroma, and consumers bargaining for the best deals and fish of all kinds, the scene offers you a look into the traditional Dubai lifestyle. If you are a seafood lover, Fujairah Fish Market is like a research facility for you. Must go and experience the local culture and their knowledge of fish.
Al Karama Fish Market Dubai
This market is located at 68P3+XGJ, Al Karama, Dubai. The daily operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Al Karama Fish Market is next to Karma bus stop and also has a vegetable market nearby. So you can shop all ingredients of your cuisine in one place.
They also have a large variety of fish and a good environment, but most people have had a mixed experience here. Overall, the cleanliness is good and you get fresh seafood here. Their contact number is +971 4 334 8974
Fish Market Umm Al Quwain
This fish market is located at GHX5+7VX, Al Khor 1, Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. It closes daily before 10 pm. It is not a very big market but certainly very clean and well maintained. The prices are cheaper as compared to the Dubai fish market. Mostly, you are advised to come here early in the morning to get a good deal and fresh seafood.
Fish Market Ajman
Ajman Fish Market is located at CF23+388, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St, Free Zone, Al Rashidiya 1, Ajman. They open daily from 7:00 am to 1:30 pm. On Google Maps, this place is listed as a restaurant so don’t get confused. The place sells both cooked and fresh fish. There is a Jawahar seafood restaurant here which is very famous. You can eat live catch freshly cooked by experienced chefs.
Since the market is waterfront located, people enjoy being here, taking selfies and getting some good bargaining on fresh seafood. Despite being 4 decades older, the market is very well organized and clean.
Deira Fish Market
Commonly known as the waterfront market, this fish market is located at Al Khaleej Street, Deira and remains open for 24 hours. Here you will get both local and imported fish. The place has a huge variety of fish along with cleaning and packing services. Deira Fish Market is designed in sections for a wholesome shopping experience.
Dubai Fish Market
There is another fish market in Deira, Dubai. It is located at Corniche Deira. This is one of the biggest fish markets in Dubai. There is also a waterfront restaurant here which offers service to cook the freshly brought fish. So you can buy fish from the market and get it cooked at a restaurant.
The cleanliness of the place is admirable. There is also a vegetable and fruit market so you get everything under one roof. Visiting this market is a good shopping experience for fish lovers.
Some Facts And Key Features
- These markets are not only markets but also a glimpse of the UAE traditions.
- You will find a large number, types and quantities of fish here.
- Hammour (Grouper) is one of the local favourite fish that is frequently used in Emirati cuisine.
- Fish commonly used for grilling is Kingfisher.
- You will find fresh Crabs, shrimps, and lobsters in restaurants all over the UAE.
- Local household fishes are Pomfret, Sardines, and Tuna.
- Salmon and tuna are also popular for their high omega-3 content, making them a healthier and protein-rich diet.
- They are all very accessible and affordable. You will find both cheap and expensive varieties here.
- These markets are very clean and well-maintained. There is a very low chance of contamination. Most markets have air conditioning systems and strict hygiene standards.
- In these markets, you can not only buy but also get fish-cleaning services at minimalist rates.
- Every morning fish is auctioned by fishermen and it can be a very wholesome experience for you.
- The markets are lively and full of trading going on.
Future Trends In The Fish Markets in UAE
Although some fish, like hammour, are facing overfishing issues, fish consumption will rise in the near future. To solve the overfishing problem, the UAE government is implementing measures to promote sustainable fishing practices. These include quotas and seasonal bans. Also, to meet rising demand, the government has introduced fish farming to reduce pressure on wild fish stocks.
As the United Arab Emirates is famous for exotic seafood experiences, the fish demand is not going to slow down. Interest in imported seafood may also grow.
Conclusion
Fish Markets in UAE are not only part of daily life but a testament to its traditional roots. These markets are clean, and cheap and have a huge variety of local and imported fish. You can not only buy fish here but also get it cleaned and cooked in some markets. When you are visiting Dubai, at least visit one of the markets to get to know the soul of the city better.
