The role of the fish auctioneer, known as “الدلال,” has historically encompassed much more than merely announcing prices at the bustling fish markets. It was a critical element of the market balance, with the auctioneer serving as a bridge between sellers and buyers, informed by deep knowledge of fishing conditions, the sea, and fishermen’s circumstances. A skilled الدلال could assess the value of the catch before bidding even began, understanding the costs incurred by fishermen on their ocean ventures.
However, this equilibrium has been disrupted. As fewer citizens have engaged in the profession, particularly in Dubai‘s vast waterfront market, the role of الدلال has largely shifted to individuals from various nationalities. This change has prompted concerns from fishermen who feel that the very essence of the profession is being altered. Some auctioneers have begun to resemble traders, purchasing fish at lower prices to secure higher profits when reselling them at auction, thereby widening the gap between what fishermen earn and the prices consumers pay.
In response to this evolving landscape, fishermen in Dubai are advocating for a reorganisation of the profession, seeking to reintroduce local citizens into the auctioneering sphere. They argue that this would help restore balance to a vital segment of the fish market economy, honouring both the rights of fishermen and the interests of consumers.
Mutual Understanding
Jamal Al Marri, Vice Chairman of the Fishermen’s Association in Dubai, emphasized that the presence of local auctioneers has traditionally ensured fairness for the fishermen. The relationship between buyers and sellers was built on mutual understanding of the profession’s intricacies, which reflected in the pricing offered for catches. According to Al Marri, a knowledgeable الدلال would consider the entire journey of the catch, including costs related to fuel, labour, and the risks of fishing.
This context helped to shape how prices were determined, ensuring that fishermen received fair returns while maintaining balanced prices for consumers. However, as local citizens withdraw from the profession and the role shifts to foreign nationals, Al Marri warns that fishermen now face a system that prioritises profit margins over equitable transactions.
Transparency and Pricing
Mohammed Al Suwaidi, another experienced fisherman, raised concerns regarding a lack of transparency in current practices. He described situations where fishermen were forced to sell their catch at prices that barely covered their expenses, due to agreements among some auctioneers to buy at depressed rates. He recounted instances of fishermen selling fish for 35 dirhams per kilogram, only to see it resold just moments later for 60 dirhams. This discrepancy highlights how current practices can favour auctioneers at the expense of the fishermen’s livelihoods.
Al Suwaidi noted that such practices diminish the incentive for fishermen to continue in the business, potentially driving them to seek alternative marketing channels outside traditional fish markets. He insists that the market should exist primarily as a platform for fairly marketing the fishers’ catch, rather than being dominated by a few auctioneers who exert control over pricing.
A Fairer Model
Echoing these sentiments, Mohammed Batti remarked on the changes to the role of الدلال, asserting that it has shifted from a simple commission-based intermediary to a somewhat monopolistic practice. Today’s auctioneers can earn substantial profits, sometimes exceeding 500 dirhams per auction, leading to potential daily earnings far surpassing 2000 dirhams, which could be an attractive proposition for a new generation of Emiratis.
Many fishermen have expressed willingness to return to the profession, provided it is reorganised to restrict practice to qualified citizens free from competition with foreign auctioneers. The Dubai waterfront market has publicly supported these calls for increased Emirati involvement, acknowledging the importance of a fair and sustainable fishing industry.
Regulatory Framework
Mohammed Al Madani, a partner at the Dubai Waterfront Market, confirmed that they host the largest fish auction market in the UAE, facilitating the trade of approximately 120,000 tonnes of seafood annually. He pointed out that 73% of registered auctioneer companies are Emirati, demonstrating the continued relevance of the profession within the country’s maritime heritage.
Al Madani explained that auctioneers operate under established licensing requirements and regulatory frameworks mandated by governmental authorities. Individuals aiming to become auctioneers must submit necessary documentation, including a valid business license and UAE identity. Following compliance with these requirements, candidates can begin their work as licensed auctioneers.
The market is committed to fostering long-term sustainability in the local fishing sector while empowering the next generation of Emirati talent. Al Madani emphasized that their support for citizen participation is a top priority, establishing an environment conducive to effective auctioning processes through dedicated spaces and advanced infrastructure.
A Different Approach in Dibba Al Fujairah
In contrast, the fish market in Dibba Al Fujairah provides an alternative model in managing the profession. There, the role of الدلال is clearly defined as a public auctioneer, separating it from the buying and resale processes, under the oversight of the Fishermen’s Association. Suleiman Al Khudaim, head of the Dibba Al Fujairah Fishermen’s Association, noted that this model is attracting local citizens by establishing a more professional and fair setting.
He highlighted that auctioneers in Dibba exhibit a clear mandate—organising and conducting sales without engaging as direct buyers or pricing manipulators. This allows fish to be showcased transparently in public auctions where prices reflect genuine supply and demand.
Ultimately, the auctioning framework in Dibba Al Fujairah promotes fairness, ensuring that fishermen can trust in the selling process and access reasonable pricing while retaining their rights alongside buyers.
Conclusion
With 73% of registered auctioneers being Emirati, and daily revenues potentially exceeding 2000 dirhams, the role of الدلال remains an attractive career option that can promote sustainability and support Emirati participation in the fishing industry. Addressing current challenges and fostering an environment of fair practices is essential for maintaining the historical significance of the fish market and ensuring its ongoing viability for future generations.