Hammour (Orange-spotted Grouper)

The Hammour is the most iconic fish of the UAE — a cultural symbol and the most prized table fish in the country. Heavy-bodied with orange-brown spots, it is found on reefs across both coastlines. Heavily targeted by anglers and spearfishers, it is now under significant fishing pressure.

Species Stats

Diet

Fish, crustaceans, cephalopods

Habitat

Coral reefs, rocky outcrops, inshore and offshore reefs

Local Name (Arabic)

هامور

Fun Facts

• 1

  All Hammour start life as females and later change sex to become male — a strategy called protogynous hermaphroditism.

• 2

  Can live over 30 years; large individuals over 80 cm are rare due to fishing pressure.

• 3

  The UAE has implemented minimum size limits (30 cm) and seasonal closures to protect Hammour populations.

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