UAE: Fishing industry driver of sustainable food security, says climate minister

Dubai: Fishing, a key pillar of the UAE’s marine heritage and history, is a significant economic activity supporting sustainable food security, a minister said after meeting fishermen in Kalba.

Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, noted that the UAE leadership is dedicated to supporting fishermen and ensuring the long-term health of the fishing industry.

“Achieving this goal, however, necessitates a delicate balance between sustaining the economic viability of fishing, preserving biodiversity, and safeguarding endangered marine species from depletion. The protection of these resources is a shared responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts to ensure the responsible and sustainable utilisation of our natural assets,” Dr Amna said after meeting Emirati fishermen at Souq Al Jubail in Kalba, one of the UAE’s prominent fishing centres.

Ali Ahmed Ali Abughazayain, Chairman of the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority; Suleiman Rashid Al-Khadim Al-Antali, Chairman of the UAE Federation of Fishermen’s Cooperatives, Chairman of Dibba Al Fujairah Fishermen’s Association, and a number of heads of fishermen’s associations were also present.

The insightful discussions focused on enhancing the fishing sector and developing fisheries within the UAE, in line with the comprehensive framework and goals of the National Food Security Strategy 2051.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to preserve biodiversity and protect endangered marine species, we are committed to enhancing the sustainability of the fishing industry, including its supply chains. We are collaborating with the fishing community to develop a pioneering model for preserving the marine ecological balance and ensuring the continued availability of natural fish stocks for future generations,” the minister said.

The minister commended the important role of fishermen’s associations in supporting the development of the sector and their significant contribution to implementing laws and regulations that safeguard marine species, preserve the marine ecosystem and biodiversity, and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Dr Amna listened to the concerns, requirements, and challenges faced by fishermen. She highlighted the ministry’s vision and efforts to support fishermen and strengthen its role in developing fisheries, a crucial pillar of the UAE’s food security strategy.

The meeting was attended by representatives of fishermen’s cooperative associations from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Hamriyah, Khor Fakkan, Dibba Al-Hisn, Kalba, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, the Northern Regions, Fujairah, Dibba Al Fujairah, and Al Badia.