Despite being bordered by the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia’s seafood consumption remains notably low in comparison to global averages. The latest Food & Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) figures reveal that the Kingdom’s per capita fish consumption is around 13.5 kg per year, significantly below the global average of 20.5 kg.
In response, the Saudi government is making significant strides to revitalise its fisheries sector. This initiative is not only aimed at boosting economic growth but also at promoting public health and enhancing food security. Central to these efforts is a comprehensive strategy that merges economic goals with environmental sustainability, recognising the crucial balance needed to protect marine resources while meeting increasing demand.
Setting the foundations for growth
One of the government’s key focus areas is improving infrastructure. The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has undertaken the task of modernising and building new fishing ports along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coastlines. These upgraded facilities provide fishermen with better access to markets, improved storage and handling techniques, and heightened safety measures. This push towards modern infrastructure is essential for making the sector more efficient, competitive, and sustainable.
To further bolster the sector, the government is offering a range of support to empower fishermen and other key players in the fisheries value chain. This includes subsidies, training programs, and access to advanced fishing technologies, making the fishing profession more viable and attractive to Saudis. These measures also aim to ensure that modern fishing practices minimise the strain on marine ecosystems, aligning economic incentives with environmental conservation.
In parallel, MEWA is actively working to promote the benefits of seafood consumption through public campaigns and educational initiatives. By encouraging Saudis to integrate more fish into their diets, the government seeks to enhance public health while supporting local fisheries. This awareness campaign is not only about promoting nutrition but also fostering a cultural shift toward supporting sustainable domestic seafood production.
Sustainable aquaculture: A game-changer
Sustainability is at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s fisheries transformation. The National Fisheries Development Program (NFDP), launched under MEWA, has been instrumental in setting strategic goals, coordinating efforts, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. In 2021-22, the program dedicated SAR 1.3 billion to various initiatives, including marine water aquaculture. With nearly 2,800 kilometers of coastline, Saudi Arabia has vast potential for aquaculture, and investments in this sector are growing rapidly.
The Red Sea, with its clean and nutrient-rich waters, is home to some of the world’s finest seafood. Companies like Tabuk Fisheries are leveraging sustainable aquaculture techniques, setting up advanced in-sea fish farms that produce high-quality seafood while minimising environmental impact. These farms operate under strict guidelines to ensure that fish populations are not depleted, and ecosystems are not disrupted.
The Saudi government’s concerted efforts are not solely focused on increasing production but also on preserving marine biodiversity. This includes regulating catch limits, encouraging responsible fishing practices, and developing the afore-mentioned aquaculture systems that reduce overfishing. As the country scales its fisheries industry, it is keenly aware of the need to protect marine habitats and ensure that growth does not come at the expense of future generations.
A vision for the future
The ongoing transformation of Saudi Arabia’s fisheries sector is poised to deliver long-term economic benefits and contribute to the nation’s food security. By marrying sustainability with growth, the Kingdom is building a resilient fisheries industry that aligns with its Vision 2030 objectives of economic diversification and environmental stewardship.
As the sector continues to modernise, it offers the promise of not only boosting the economy but also improving the health and well-being of Saudi citizens—securing a sustainable future for generations to come.
