How UAE plans to boost Aquaculture by cutting red tape, backing research, and targeting exports

The UAE ’s aquaculture and fisheries sector is undergoing major expansion, backed by a national strategy that balances economic diversification, sustainability, and food security. According to Dr. Ebrahim Abdulla Husain Al Jamali , Director of the Fisheries Sustainability Department at MOCCAE, the ministry is intensifying efforts to scale aquaculture production and enter high-demand export markets while strengthening the country’s food system.

Driving Exports and Global Competitiveness

Speaking to local news outlet Aletihad, Dr. Al Jamali said the ministry aims to position the UAE as a regional leader in premium aquaculture exports, responding to rising international demand.

“This strategic push includes expanding access to new global markets, with a particular focus on regions demonstrating strong demand for high-quality, sustainably farmed seafood,” he said.
“The strategy also involves promoting species with proven market acceptance and significant export potential.”
In 2022, UAE aquaculture production reached 3,526.5 tonnes, with growth expected through farm expansion and advanced production technology.

“The goal is to position the UAE as a leading regional exporter of premium aquaculture products, while simultaneously supporting broader economic diversification and sustainable growth objectives,” Dr. Al Jamali added.

Enhancing National Food Security

Aquaculture plays a vital role in the National Food Security Strategy 2051, especially as seafood remains a dietary staple in the UAE.

• Per capita seafood consumption stood at 26.4kg in 2022, exceeding the global average
  
  
• Consumer behaviour studies have guided policy to better align production with domestic demand
  
  

“The ministry is actively streamlining aquaculture development by significantly simplifying licensing procedures, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, and prioritising environmental sustainability,” said Dr. Al Jamali.
MOCCAE is also providing:

Technical support and advisory services to local farmers


Dedicated investor guidance during the licensing process


Digital services for licensing, live fish importation, and farm operation management


An advanced permit system ensures strict biosecurity controls at ports of entry, with permits valid for up to three months and options for export/re-export of products.

“These smart services foster a business-friendly environment… encouraging private sector engagement within the aquaculture industry,” he noted.

Research, Innovation and Sustainable Expansion
The ministry is also investing in research and development in collaboration with the private sector, exploring the commercial viability of new local fish species.

A key innovation is the UAE Aquaculture Toolkit, developed in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It provides an operational and scientific foundation for the sector and includes:

• Atlas of Potential Offshore Aquaculture Zones
  
  
• Consumer Preferences Study
  
  
• Biosecurity Guidelines for disease control at the farm level
  
  

“These consumer insights directly inform policy, guiding the sector to focus production on high-demand species that exhibit excellent taste, texture, and growth performance,” said Dr. Al Jamali.
“They also highlight the need to invest in modern production systems, such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to maintain consistent quality.”
Using insights from the toolkit, the ministry is finalizing a National Aquaculture Development Plan .

The plan aims “to expand farms, diversify production, ensure sustainability (environmental, social, economic), improve investment, boost GDP contribution, and create export opportunities,” he explained.

Framework for Responsible Growth
MOCCAE’s aquaculture initiatives are backed by strong legislative foundations, including:

• Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 – on the Exploitation, Protection, and Development of Living Aquatic Resources
  
  
• Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 – on Environment Protection and Development
  
  

“Together, these laws form a comprehensive and strong legal foundation that ensures the responsible growth of the aquaculture sector, effectively balancing industry expansion with the protection and conservation of the natural environment,” said Dr. Al Jamali.