Best Fish for Grilling in UAE | Top 10 Fresh Choices

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly grilled fish. In the UAE, where seafood is a staple and markets are filled with local and imported varieties, grilling fish is one of the most popular ways to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal.

But with so many choices available, which fish should you pick for the grill? The best grilling fish are those with firm flesh, natural oils, and a flavor that stands up well to the heat.

The 10 Best Fish for Grilling in UAE

Here’s our list of the 10 best fish for grilling in the UAE — all widely available in local markets and restaurants.

1. Kingfish (Kanaad)

• Why it’s great: One of the most popular fish in the UAE, known for its firm, meaty texture and slightly sweet taste.

• Benefits: High in protein, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and low in saturated fat.

• Grilling Tip: Best grilled as thick steaks or fillets. Marinate with Arabic spices, lime, and olive oil for a smoky flavor.

• Local Note: Kingfish is a staple in Emirati households and a favorite at BBQ gatherings.

👉 Explore our full Kingfish (Kanaad) guide to learn about its benefits, history, and the best places to buy it in the UAE.

2. Hammour (Groupers)

• Why it’s great: A UAE classic with mild, tender white flesh. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter-tasting fish.

• Benefits: Lean, low-fat, and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

• Grilling Tip: Grill whole with a stuffing of garlic, coriander, and lemon for a traditional Gulf-style preparation.

• Local Note: Widely served in Emirati and Gulf cuisine, especially in family feasts.

3. Pomfret (Safee)

• Why it’s great: Small, flat, and easy to cook. Its buttery flesh makes it a versatile grilling fish.

• Benefits: Contains essential fatty acids and is easily digestible.

• Grilling Tip: Grill whole with a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and lemon. Great for quick dinners.

• Local Note: Popular at fish markets across Dubai and Sharjah for its affordability and taste.

4. Sheri (Emperor Fish)

• Why it’s great: A popular fish in Emirati households, often enjoyed in grilled and fried dishes.

• Benefits: Light, flaky, and mild in taste, making it kid-friendly.

• Grilling Tip: Marinate in turmeric, garlic, and spices before grilling whole on charcoal.

• Local Note: Traditionally used in Emirati recipes like “Samak Meshwi” (grilled fish).

5. Sardines

• Why it’s great: Small, oily, and flavorful. Perfect for high-heat grilling.

• Benefits: One of the healthiest fish, packed with Omega-3s, calcium, and vitamin D.

• Grilling Tip: Brush with olive oil and grill quickly on high heat to prevent sticking.

• Local Note: A popular budget-friendly choice at coastal markets.

6. Salmon

• Why it’s great: Imported but widely available in UAE supermarkets. Its rich taste and high oil content make it ideal for grilling.

• Benefits: Loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health.

• Grilling Tip: Grill as fillets with lemon, garlic, and dill, or use cedar planks for a smoky flavor.

• Local Note: Often chosen by expats looking for a healthy Western-style grilling option.

7. Tuna (Yellowfin)

• Why it’s great: Meaty texture that grills beautifully without falling apart.

• Benefits: High in protein, low in fat, and a good source of vitamins.

• Grilling Tip: Best enjoyed as steaks, lightly seared on both sides. Pairs well with soy, sesame, and ginger marinades.

• Local Note: Available fresh in coastal markets and loved for its steak-like quality.

8. Sea Bream (Hamra)

• Why it’s great: Sweet, delicate flesh that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean flavors.

• Benefits: Rich in nutrients, including protein, selenium, and vitamin D.

• Grilling Tip: Grill whole with olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Excellent for stuffing with herbs.

• Local Note: Commonly sold in UAE fish markets and popular for family BBQs.

9. Mackerel (Haddo)

• Why it’s great: Strong, bold flavor with lots of natural oils.

• Benefits: Extremely high in Omega-3 fatty acids, supporting brain and heart health.

• Grilling Tip: Marinate in spicy masala or chili paste, then grill over charcoal for authentic flavor.

• Local Note: A budget-friendly fish often found in traditional UAE grills.

10. Tilapia

• Why it’s great: Affordable, mild-tasting fish that’s easy to cook.

• Benefits: Low in fat, high in protein, and widely available year-round.

• Grilling Tip: Grill fillets with garlic butter, lemon, and herbs. Works well wrapped in foil.

• Local Note: A practical choice for families looking for a budget-friendly grilling fish.

Quick Comparison – Best Fish for Grilling in UAE

Benefits of Grilling Fish

Grilling isn’t just delicious — it’s also one of the healthiest ways to prepare seafood.

• Preserves Nutrients: Cooking over high heat keeps proteins and vitamins intact.

• Low in Fat: Requires little or no oil.

• Enhances Flavor: Natural smoke and char add depth to the taste.

• Quick and Convenient: Most fish cook in under 15 minutes.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Fish

• Choose firm, fresh fish from trusted markets in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi.

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes to lock in flavor.

• Use a grill basket or foil for delicate fish.

• Always preheat the grill to prevent sticking.

Where to Buy the Best Fish in UAE

we explored the Best Fish for Grilling in the UAE. But once you know what to buy, the next question is: Where to buy the best fresh fish in the UAE? From ultra-modern air-conditioned hubs to traditional shoreline auctions, here is our definitive list of the top spots to find the freshest seafood in the Emirates.

You can find these fish in:

1. Waterfront Market, Dubai (Deira)

The successor to the legendary Deira Fish Market, the Waterfront Market is arguably the most famous seafood destination in the country. It perfectly blends the raw energy of a traditional market with the comfort of a modern mall.

• What to expect: Over 350 stalls offering everything from local Sheri and Hammour to imported Norwegian Salmon.

• The Experience: It’s open 24/7, though the freshest action happens between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM.

• Pro Tip: Use the dedicated cleaning and cutting counters. For a few dirhams, they will butterfly or fillet your fish perfectly while you wait.

2. Mina Fish Market, Abu Dhabi

Located near Port Zayed, the Mina Fish Market is a must-visit for anyone in the capital. It recently underwent a major renovation, making it cleaner and more organized than ever.

• Benefits: It offers a "sea-to-table" experience. You can see the dhows (traditional boats) unloading their catch just meters away.

• Dining: After buying your fish, you can take it to one of the nearby stalls to have it seasoned and grilled on the spot.

3. Souq Al Jubail, Sharjah

If you want to shop in an architectural masterpiece, head to Souq Al Jubail. This market is famous for its stunning Islamic design and world-class hygiene standards.

• Highlights: It is divided into sections for fish, meat, and vegetables, making it a one-stop shop for your weekend meal prep.

• The Auction: Don’t miss the daily fish auction after Asr prayer—it’s a lively, cultural spectacle that shows how the local trade has operated for decades.

4. Ajman Fish Market

For those looking for the best value, the Ajman Fish Market is a hidden gem. It is often less crowded than the Dubai markets but offers equally high-quality local catches.

• Why visit: It is known for having some of the most competitive prices in the Northern Emirates.

• Vibe: It feels more intimate and traditional, giving you a chance to chat with local fishermen about the day's best picks.

5. Jumeirah Fish Market (Souq Al Bahar for Fish), Dubai

Tucked away in Umm Suqeim, this smaller market is the go-to for residents of Jumeirah and the Marina.

• The Edge: Because it’s located right at the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, the fish here often goes from the boat to the stall in record time.

• Atmosphere: It’s quiet, exceptionally clean, and free from the overwhelming crowds of the larger markets.

Buying Fish Online & in Supermarkets

Not everyone has the time to visit a market at dawn. Fortunately, the UAE has some of the best grocery delivery services in the world.

• FreshToHome: A leader in the digital space, offering "antibiotic-free" fish delivered to your door.

• Kibsons: Known for their high-quality control and rapid delivery across all Emirates.

• Spinneys & Waitrose: Ideal for high-end, sustainably sourced fillets and "ready-to-grill" marinated options.

Tips for Buying Fresh Fish

To ensure you’re getting the best quality, keep these three "Freshness Checks" in mind:

1. The Eyes: Look for clear, bulging eyes. If they are cloudy or sunken, the fish isn't fresh.

2. The Gills: They should be a bright, vivid red. Avoid anything that looks brown or grey.

3. The Texture: Press the flesh gently. It should be firm and spring back immediately. If it leaves a fingerprint, it’s been on the ice too long.

Best Marinades for Grilled Fish in UAE

The right marinade can transform grilled fish from simple to unforgettable. In the UAE, where spices and flavors are part of daily cooking, marinades play a huge role in creating authentic taste. Here are some of the best marinades you can try:

1. Traditional Arabic Marinade

• Olive oil

• Garlic paste

• Fresh coriander

• Lemon juice

• Cumin, turmeric, and paprika

Perfect for hammour, kingfish, or sheri, this marinade gives a smoky, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with charcoal grilling.

2. Indian Masala Marinade

• Yogurt

• Ginger-garlic paste

• Red chili powder

• Turmeric

• Garam masala

• Lime juice

This spicy, tangy mix is a classic for mackerel, sardines, or pomfret, giving them a rich kick of flavor.

3. Mediterranean Herb Marinade

• Olive oil

• Fresh thyme and oregano

• Garlic

• Lemon zest

• Black pepper

Light and refreshing, this works wonderfully with sea bream, salmon, or tilapia, letting their natural sweetness shine.

4. Asian Soy-Sesame Marinade

• Soy sauce

• Sesame oil

• Ginger

• Garlic

• Honey

• Rice vinegar

Best for tuna steaks or salmon fillets, this adds a sweet-savory balance with a hint of umami.

5. Simple Lemon Butter Marinade

• Melted butter

• Fresh lemon juice

• Crushed black pepper

• Fresh parsley

A classic for anyone who prefers a light, natural flavor. Works with almost any fish but especially delicious on pomfret or tilapia.

Pro Tips for Marinating Fish

• Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour — too long can break down delicate fish.

• Always use fresh lemon or lime for the best flavor.

• For stronger fish (like mackerel or sardines), spicier marinades balance the flavor.

• Use a little oil to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill.

👉 If you want to explore more UAE food recommendations, check out Best of UAE for guides on local favorites.

FAQs

1. Which is the healthiest fish to grill in UAE?

Mackerel and sardines are among the healthiest due to their high Omega-3 content.

2. Can I grill frozen fish?

Yes, but fresh fish is always recommended for the best taste and texture.

3. What seasoning works best for grilled fish?

Lemon, garlic, olive oil, and local Arabic spices are popular choices.

4. How do I stop fish from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates well and preheat before placing the fish.

5. Which fish is most commonly grilled in Emirati homes?

Hammour and Sheri are traditional favorites across the UAE.

6. What is the best time to visit a fish market in the UAE?

The "Golden Hour" is typically between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This is when the boats arrive and the variety is at its peak.

7. Do they clean the fish for you?

Almost every major fish market in the UAE has a dedicated cleaning section where they will descale, gut, and cut the fish to your liking for a small fee (usually AED 5–10 per kg).

8. Is local fish better than imported fish?

Local fish like Hammour, Sheri, and Kingfish are fresher because they don't require long-distance shipping. However, for species like Salmon or Sea Bass, the UAE imports high-quality options from Europe and beyond.

Conclusion – Bring the Grill to Life

The UAE is blessed with an abundance of fresh fish, making grilling an unforgettable dining experience. From kingfish steaks to hammour fillets, there’s something for every seafood lover.

So, the next time you fire up the grill, try one of these best fish for grilling in UAE and enjoy a meal that’s both healthy and full of flavor.