It is strictly regulated.
Magnet fishing in the UAE falls under antiquities and environmental laws, requiring permits from the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in Dubai or equivalent local authorities. Violations risk fines up to AED 50,000 or imprisonment under Federal Decree-Law No. 23 of 2022 on Antiquities Protection. The practice is permissible only if conducted on private land with explicit owner consent or in designated areas, with no disturbance to historical artifacts or marine ecosystems.
Key Regulations for Magnet Fishing in United Arab Emirates
- Antiquities Protection: Federal Decree-Law No. 23 of 2022 mandates permits for any activity that may uncover historical or cultural artifacts, with unauthorized removal punishable by law.
- Environmental Compliance: The UAE’s Environmental Law (Federal Law No. 24 of 1999) prohibits activities that disrupt marine or terrestrial ecosystems, including unauthorized metal detection in public waters or protected zones.
- Land Ownership: Magnet fishing on private property requires written consent from the landowner, while government or public land access demands prior approval from relevant local authorities (e.g., DCT-Abu Dhabi or Sharjah Archaeology Authority).