Step back in time with Emirati fishermen: How these Emirati lived off the sea and supported their families – News

KT Special Report: For many UAE nationals, fishing is part of their identity, something they have inherited from the past and will pass on to the future

The timeless art of fishing remains a beloved tradition that connects Emiratis to their heritage and the rich seas that surround them. It has been an important part of Emirati culture for centuries. It was once the backbone of the economy, providing the main source of income for parents and grandparents.

But for many Emirati men today, fishing is more than a way of earning a living – it is part of their identity, a cherished passion they will proudly pass on to their children and grandchildren.

Even during a pandemic, fishing can offer a form of solace: “We’re disconnected from what’s going on in the world,” said Abdullah Al Salami, president of the Dibba Al Hosn Fishermen’s Association.

Despite the challenges of the profession, UAE fishermen remain dedicated to their craft. “Fishing is not an easy job,” said Abdullah Salami, who learned to fish at the age of 13 from his family and has been in the trade ever since. “Before, we had to work hard to make a living. We would go out at 3am and have to be back by 9am when sales were on,” he added.

For many UAE fishermen, fishing is not just a profession but a way of life. Abdullah Al Salami said that for him, fish is a staple and he eats it every day, preferably fresh from the day’s catch. He is keen to go fishing every day with his family or friends as he mentioned that fishing is an integral part of his daily life.

Jasim Al Zaabi, a fisherman from ‘Khor Kalba’ (which includes the Qurm Nature Reserve), helped his father start fishing at the age of seven. As a child, he would spend long hours with friends playing and crabbing in the natural mangrove-filled lagoon. Eventually, they started selling their catch to help their families. “My first and last goal was to help my father, not make him travel. So, I started fishing since I was a child, and I would go out to sea day and night, contribute a little money, and help the family increase their income.”

Al Zaabi also understands the risks of being a fisherman. Wind and rain can cause significant damage, which is a constant concern for underwater crews.

On a winter morning in Kalba, Al Zaabi ventured out to sea despite signs of an approaching storm. As he was out to sea, he noticed a thick cloud cover in the direction of the nearby mountains. Before he knew it, a torrential rain and wind hit him, making it almost impossible for him to steer the boat back to shore.

In a panic, Al-Dhabi made a bold decision. He cast anchor out to sea and waited in the boat, hoping and praying that the storm would pass quickly. As the wind and rain continued to batter his boat, he feared for his life but refused to give up hope.

Thankfully, the storm started to die down and Al Zaabi was able to safely return the boat to shore. Despite the horrors he experienced at sea, he is thankful he survived and was given another chance at life.

While modern technology has made fishing easier and more efficient, many UAE fishermen continue to rely on traditional methods and techniques. “We use nets and threads like our ancestors did,” said Abdullah Al Salami. “In my opinion, as a fishing expert and an old-timer in the field, the old-fashioned way is best for me, and I love seeing it with my own eyes.”

There are too many ancient techniques and tools to list them all, but Al Salami mentions a few, the most famous of which is “Qarqoor”. It is a hemispherical container that was ancestrally made from palm leaves and certain types of wood. Its manufacturing process later shifted to wires imported from India. Its height varies by use, but can be anywhere from 5 to 6 feet. It is used in deep water and the idea behind it is that it is a trap for fish to enter through a circular opening on the side of Qarqoor. The opening is conical and narrows at the end to prevent the fish from escaping.

There is also “Al Yarouf”, which is a net used to catch small fish such as bia. It is used on shore and has a length between 20 and 70 meters. The large net known as Al Shibak varies in depth from 2m to 2.5m and it passes through the ebb and flow of the tides. Its length was 36 cubits, and it was thrown after sunset.Pull three times at night

Ali Al Raisi during a diving lesson. – Photos provided

Some fishermen use modern equipment and tools, such as Ali Al Raisi from Khor Fakkan who is also a physical education teacher. For him, fishing is a hobby and he uses it as a way to relax. “I’m a physical education teacher, but in addition to teaching, I also train in diving,” he said.

UAE fishermen remain optimistic about the future. “Fishing is part of who we are and we will continue to pass on our love and passion for the craft to future generations,” he said.