The Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi (EAD) has reported official violations related to groups of fishermen caught using illegal gillnets — an action strictly prohibited by the laws of the UAE. The agency emphasized the importance of adhering to the country's fishing regulations to protect marine biodiversity and maintain ecosystem equilibrium in a social media statement.
"EAD reported violations after fishermen were caught using illegal gillnets, which are banned under environmental protection laws. All fishermen are called to comply with the regulations for marine life protection and the sustenance of sustainable fishing practices," the statement said.
Additionally, all instruments and boats involved in the violations will be confiscated. EAD, which regulates fishing activities in the emirate, continues to call on all fishermen to follow the rules for protecting marine resources and to assist in sustainable fishing practices in the UAE.
Violating the law results in penalties established by UAE legislation, which prohibits the use of specific fishing gear, including trawl nets and scoop nets, as well as various fishing equipment and nets made of nylon. Violators of this law face severe penalties, including imprisonment for no less than three months and fines ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 dirhams.
Repeated violations incur stricter penalties — no less than a year of imprisonment and fines of up to 100,000 dirhams. Fishermen are called to follow the regulations for the protection of marine life and the sustainability of fishery practices.
