Abu Dhabi Camel Grazing Ban Begins Friday, Remains in Effect Until May 2027

Abu Dhabi Camel Grazing Ban Starts : Abu Dhabi announced seasonal camel grazing restrictions on Friday, with the prohibition slated to last until May 14, 2027. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced the end of this year’s grazing season and urged camel owners and livestock goalkeepers to observe the laws.

The regular closure is designed to allow natural pastures to regrow while also protecting native plants across the emirate. It also helps to preserve biodiversity and keep delicate desert ecosystems in balance.

Camel owners must guarantee that their animals do not graze beyond the allotted time. Those preparing for the following season should also double-check their licence requirements and ensure that their permits are genuine.

Abu Dhabi Camel Grazing Ban Follows an Earlier Season

The 2026 grazing season began on April 22, rather than the typical May 15. The modification came after EAD and the necessary authorities conducted an assessment following significant rains in Abu Dhabi in the previous months.

The increasing rainfall encouraged vegetation growth and improved conditions for camel grazing. The new schedule was implemented at the request of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the EAD Board of Directors.

With the grazing season over, natural rangelands will have time to recuperate without the constant burden of animals. The limits are part of the emirate’s efforts to preserve native species and fragile desert environments.

EAD also commended camel owners and breeders for their assistance throughout the season. The agency emphasised the necessity of responsible grazing and following environmental standards in order to conserve natural pastures for future generations.

The annual closure is effective from October 16 to May 14, 2027. Camel owners should schedule their activities around these periods and refrain from grazing during the prohibited months.

Abu Dhabi Camel Grazing Rules, Permits and Fees

Camel grazing in Abu Dhabi is managed by Law No. 11 of 2020, which establishes a legislative framework for managing grazing operations throughout the Emirate.

According to the law’s executive regulations, UAE nationals aged 21 and up can apply for grazing licenses as long as they employ a ranger aged at least 18. Licence holders must keep their camels under constant surveillance by the appointed ranger.

Grazing is permitted only during the period specified by the licence. Permits are also non-transferable, which means that a licence holder cannot give the permission to another individual.

Eligible camel owners can apply for a new licence or renew a current one using TAMM, the government services portal.

Fees are:

New grazing licence: Dh250.

Licence renewal costs Dh150.

Before the new season begins, owners should check their licence status and make sure they understand the authorised grazing periods. Following the schedule and license restrictions helps to conserve Abu Dhabi’s natural vegetation while keeping grazing activity within legal limits.

The current limits will be in place until May 14, 2027. Until then, camel and animal owners are obliged to follow seasonal rules designed to help the emirate’s natural rangelands recover.