UMM AL QUWAIN // Emirati fishermen in UAQ have been exempted from the Dh220 fee for a fishing permit in the emirate after a decree by the Ruling Family.
Sheikh Rashid bin Saud Al Mualla, Crown Prince of UAQ, ordered the exemption after directives from the Ruler, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla.
The law came into force on September 30 to help alleviate fishermen’s financial burden and to ensure that the tradition of fishing as a profession continued.
Fishermen said the costs of doing their business were rising and they welcomed the change from having to obtain a new permit every two years.
It also gave them more motivation to continue the tradition many had inherited from their ancestors, they said.
“This honour will keep the traditional profession from extinction,” said Essa Al Gharbi.
The 65-year-old, a retired Federal Electricity and Water office director who has been fishing for more than 30 years, said that the Ruler pleased many in UAQ with his decision.
“It brings happiness and joy to all fishermen. It is not because it is a financial alleviation, it is due to the appreciation of the Ruler for citizens’ efforts,” he said.“When a fisherman gets exemption and appreciation from the Ruler, it gives him a huge motivation to continue practising it with love and enthusiasm.”
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