|
This strategic measure confirms the emirate's unwavering commitment to preserving its marine resources and improving fisheries sustainability
Abu Dhabi Launches Sustainable Fisheries Policy
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Tuesday, November 18, 2025, 02:00 (GMT + 9)
New Decree Aims to Restore Fish Stocks, Protect Native Species, and Empower Local Fishermen for Long-Term Marine Health
Abu Dhabi has taken a major step toward safeguarding its marine environment with the issuance of a new Sustainable Fisheries Policy under Decree No. (8) of 2025.
The decree was issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and  Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). This strategic move confirms the emirate's unwavering commitment to preserving its marine resources and enhancing the sustainability of the fishing sector. The policy strengthens the emirate’s long-term commitment to restoring fish stocks, protecting native species, and ensuring the resilience of marine ecosystems, especially as recent EAD measures have shown positive signs of stock recovery.
Coordinated Implementation and Key Aims
Under the decree, the EAD will work closely with relevant authorities to implement the policy’s instruments within the outlined timeframes. The agency will also lead comprehensive impact assessments, utilizing systematic and organized procedures to ensure the policy effectively meets its sustainability goals. This step aligns with the emirate's commitment to establishing the concept of sustainable management of natural resources and enhancing the resilience of marine ecosystems in the face of climatic and environmental challenges.
The Sustainable Fisheries Policy seeks to:
-
Ensure long-term sustainability and resilience of fisheries resources.
-
Maximize the environmental, social, and economic value of this sector.
-
Strengthen governance, scientific research, and innovation in fisheries management.
-
Protect native species from overfishing.
-
Build community capacity for sustainable practices.
-
Foster partnerships among government bodies, private-sector stakeholders, and local communities.
The agency presented to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan updates on EAD Strategy 2026-2030, which aims to support the future of Abu Dhabi emirate by focusing on a set of key pillars, including facing climate change and enhancing the efficient use of natural resources
Pillars and Heritage Value
The policy is built on several core pillars, focusing on:
-
Science-based fisheries management, with stronger research programs to assess fish stocks and marine habitats.
-
Updated legislation and fishing regulations to support sustainable practices.
-
Expansion of sustainable aquaculture and restoration of key habitats such as mangroves and coral reefs.
-
Empowerment of local fishermen, alongside awareness initiatives that encourage responsible fishing methods.
The EAD emphasized that the new policy provides a comprehensive framework for managing a sector deeply rooted in Emirati heritage and essential for food security. Responsibly managed fisheries also play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine food chains, supporting biodiversity, and assisting in carbon sequestration. With this policy, Abu Dhabi aims to reinforce the integrated environmental and economic value of its fisheries sector, contributing significantly to the emirate’s sustainable development goals.
[email protected]
www.seafood.media
|
Print
