Abu Dhabi Unveils Comprehensive Sustainable Fisheries Policy to Safeguard Marine Resources

Abu Dhabi Strengthens Marine Conservation Efforts with New Fisheries Policy

Abu Dhabi has taken a significant step towards safeguarding its vital marine ecosystems and ensuring the long-term viability of its fishing sector with the unveiling of a redesigned Sustainable Fisheries Policy. Issued under Decree No. (8) of 2025 on November 17, 2025, the policy underscores the emirate's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and food security. The decree was issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD).

Aims and Objectives for Long-Term Sustainability

The new policy sets forth a comprehensive framework designed to achieve several critical objectives for Abu Dhabi's marine environment and fishing industry. Its primary aims include:

• Ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of fisheries resources.
• Maximizing the environmental, social, and economic value of the fisheries sector.
• Promoting robust governance, scientific research, and innovation in fisheries management.
• Protecting native species from overfishing and enhancing biodiversity.
• Developing community capacity for sustainable fishing practices.
• Fostering partnerships among government entities, the private sector, and local communities for responsible marine resource use.

The policy is also expected to contribute significantly to the emirate's food security and sustainable economic growth, while maintaining healthy marine food chains and supporting biodiversity. It further aims to assist in carbon sequestration, highlighting an integrated environmental and economic role. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) will coordinate with relevant authorities to monitor the policy's implementation and analyze its outcomes according to a defined timeline.

Key Pillars of the Strategy

The redesigned strategy is built upon several core pillars and implementation pathways, emphasizing a holistic approach to marine conservation and fisheries management:

• Science-based fisheries management: Strengthening monitoring and research programs to accurately assess fish stock levels and marine habitats.
• Legislative development: Updating and developing legislation and practices related to fishing activities to align with sustainable goals.
• Sustainable aquaculture expansion: Supporting initiatives that promote environmentally sound aquaculture to reduce pressure on wild fish stocks.
• Habitat rehabilitation: Focusing on the restoration of critical natural habitats, including coral reefs and mangrove forests.
• Empowerment and awareness: Prioritizing the empowerment of local fishermen and raising their awareness about the importance of conserving marine resources through sustainable fishing methods.

Context and Previous Successes

The launch of this policy comes amidst encouraging signs of fish stock recovery, attributed to the EAD's ongoing regulatory and management efforts in recent years. Abu Dhabi has demonstrated significant progress in marine conservation, achieving a remarkable 97.4% in the Sustainable Fisheries Index by the end of 2024, a substantial increase from just 8.9% in 2018. This achievement reflects a sustained commitment to integrating scientific research, international best practices, and community engagement. The new policy builds upon previous initiatives, including the UAE National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries (2019-2030), which aims to increase sustainable fish stocks in the country to 70% by 2030. The emirate's fisheries sector, deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage, produced 1,861 tonnes of seafood in 2024, with over 97% of landings coming from sustainably exploited fish stocks.