Fishing ban on sheri and safi in Dubai is lifted

The embargo lasts during the breeding season for both of the popular fish

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The popular sheri (emperor) and safi (rabbit) fish will return to markets in Dubai on Monday following a two-month ban on their catch and sale.

The annual ban came in accordance with Ministerial Decision No 501 of 2015 that regulates the fishing and marketing of sheri and safi during the breeding season - between March 1 and April 30. Its aim is to preserve stocks and prevent over-fishing.

The municipality closely inspects markets during the embargo season to ensure the ban is enforced though this year, Alia Al Harmoudi, director of environment department at Dubai Municipality, said there were no cases of illegal sales recorded.

“The aim of the ban seemed clear to them [fishermen] as they were keen to implement the decree not out of fear of repercussions but to increase the stock of these two species to benefit them after the embargo season,” said Ms Al Harmoudi.

She said inspection campaigns were conducted at 40 fish counters in the market at Umm Suqeim port and 42 shops selling fish in malls. Inspectors also explained the importance of sustainable fishing both for current fishermen and for future generations.

Posters showing the types of banned fish were distributed while fishermen were also given booklets with guidelines explaining the minimum size of fish that can be sold, Ms Al Harmoudi said.