Silver Bream
Rhabdosargus sarba
Sparidae family · Coastal
UAE Fishing Regulations
February Breeding Season Ban — Goldlined Seabream & King Soldier Bream
Ban period: February 1 – February 28 — no fishing or trade of this species
Scope: Fishing and trade/sales banned — including imported stock
Authority: MOCCAE · Ministerial Decision No. 1 of 2021
The Silver Bream — locally called "Dhanis" — is a hardy, omnivorous sea bream common throughout the Persian Gulf coast of the UAE. A year-round shore fishing target popular with weekend anglers. Silvery with faint yellow stripes and a robust body.
Species Stats
Max Length
55 cm
Max Weight
2.5 kg
Depth Range
0–50 m
Diet
Molluscs, crustaceans, algae, worms
Habitat
Inshore reefs, seagrass beds, sandy bottoms near structure
Local Name (Arabic)
دنيس
Fun Facts
- 1
Silver Bream are omnivores — one of the most dietary-flexible species in UAE coastal waters.
- 2
Tolerates a wide salinity range and is often found in harbour environments.
- 3
One of the most commonly caught shore-fishing species in the UAE, particularly in winter.