The United Arab Emirates is home to a rich variety of fish and seafood thanks to its long coastline along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Seafood has always been an essential part of Emirati cuisine and culture, providing an excellent source of high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Whether you’re looking for the best fish for grilling, want to learn about local fish species, or are searching for the freshest seafood available in the UAE, this guide introduces some of the country’s most popular fish.
1. Hammour (Orange-Spotted Grouper)
Hammour is one of the UAE’s most iconic and highly sought-after fish. It belongs to the grouper family and is known for its firm white meat, mild flavor, and versatility.
Best cooking methods:
- Grilling
- Frying
- Baking
- Traditional Gulf stews
Health benefits:
- Rich in high-quality protein
- Relatively low in fat
- Good source of Vitamin B12 and selenium
2. Kingfish (Kanaad)
Known locally as Kanaad and internationally as Kingfish, this species is one of the most popular fish in the UAE.
It is prized for:
- Firm white meat
- Few bones
- Rich flavor
Kingfish is ideal for grilling and is also widely used in biryani, curries, and many traditional Gulf recipes.
3. Sheri (Spangled Emperor)
Sheri is one of the UAE’s favorite local fish, recognized for its delicate flavor and tender white meat.
It is commonly prepared by:
- Grilling
- Frying
- Baking
Sheri is a staple in many Emirati homes and seafood restaurants.
4. Safi (Rabbitfish)
Safi is another popular local fish known for its tender texture and mild flavor.
It is commonly enjoyed:
- Grilled
- Fried
- Served with traditional rice dishes
5. Sobaity (Sobaity Seabream)
Sobaity is a premium local fish highly valued in UAE seafood markets.
Its advantages include:
- Firm white meat
- Mild flavor
- Excellent for grilling and baking
6. Zubaidi (Silver Pomfret)
Zubaidi is considered one of the finest fish in the Arabian Gulf.
It is famous for:
- Very few bones
- Soft, delicate meat
- Premium taste
It is often served during family gatherings and special occasions.
7. Qabab (Yellowfin Tuna)
Qabab is the local UAE name commonly used for Yellowfin Tuna, one of the region’s most valuable commercial fish.
It is widely used in:
- Grilled tuna dishes
- Tuna biryani
- Traditional Emirati Malah (salted fish)
- Tuna steaks
It is also an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
8. Salmon
Although salmon is not native to the UAE, it has become one of the country’s most popular imported seafood choices.
Salmon is known for:
- High omega-3 content
- Rich flavor
- Excellent grilling and baking performance
9. European Seabass
European Seabass has become increasingly popular in UAE seafood markets.
It offers:
- Tender white meat
- Few bones
- Mild flavor suitable for the whole family
10. Gilthead Seabream (Denis)
Gilthead Seabream, commonly known as Denis, is another favorite among seafood lovers in the UAE.
Its benefits include:
- Mild taste
- Firm texture
- Excellent nutritional value
- Perfect for grilling
Popular Seafood in the UAE
In addition to fresh fish, UAE seafood markets offer a wide selection of premium seafood, including:
- Shrimp
- Lobster
- Crab
- Squid
- Calamari
- Oysters
- Octopus
Health Benefits of Eating Fish
Health experts recommend including fish as part of a balanced diet because it provides many essential nutrients, including:
- High-quality protein
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
- Selenium
- Iodine
- Phosphorus
Regular consumption of fish, particularly oily fish, may help support heart health, brain function, and overall wellness when included as part of a healthy lifestyle.
How to Choose Fresh Fish
When buying fresh fish, look for:
- Bright, clear eyes
- Red or pink gills
- Shiny skin
- Firm flesh
- A clean, fresh ocean smell
Order Fresh Fish Through the Fish Markets App
Looking for fresh fish in the UAE? The Fish Markets App offers a wide selection of premium local and imported seafood with convenient online ordering.
With the Fish Markets App, you can:
- Buy fresh fish online
- Check daily fish prices
- Choose your preferred weight
- Request professional cleaning and cutting
- Enjoy cooking services where available
- Receive fast delivery across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Al Ain
Conclusion
The UAE offers an impressive variety of local and imported seafood. Popular species such as Hammour, Kingfish (Kanaad), Sheri, Safi, Sobaity, Zubaidi, and Qabab (Yellowfin Tuna) remain among the country’s favorite seafood choices. Thanks to their excellent nutritional value, delicious flavor, and versatility in cooking, these fish continue to play an important role in Emirati cuisine.
Why Choose the Fish Markets App?
The Fish Markets App is one of the UAE’s leading seafood delivery platforms, making it easy to buy fresh fish online. Browse daily fish prices, select your preferred seafood, customize cleaning and cutting options, and enjoy fast delivery across the UAE.
Whether you’re looking for premium local fish or imported seafood, Fish Markets delivers freshness and quality straight to your doorstep.
