Fresh fish prices in Dubai, Sharjah, and eastern towns have surged, with some varieties nearly doubling due to fewer fishing boats venturing out in extreme summer heat and high humidity.
A Khaleej Times report revealed that prices for popular fish such as hammour, kingfish, and sheri have spiked. Hammour now sells for Dh50-60 per kilogram, up from Dh25, while sheri has jumped from Dh15 to Dh35. Vendors attribute the increase to reduced supply as fewer boats go out in the harsh weather.
“We usually get a good supply daily, but now we’re bidding for less due to high prices,” said Khalid, a vendor at Dubai Waterfront Market. The situation is similar in Sharjah’s Al Jubail market, where prices are regulated, leaving no room for negotiation.
Fishermen in Kalba and Khorfakkan confirm that the trend will continue until the weather improves. “It’s too risky to fish in such extreme conditions,” said one fisherman, highlighting the priority on safety over catch.
Additionally, business has declined as many residents and fishermen are away on vacation, further reducing supply and increasing prices.