Abu Dhabi has reached a significant milestone in environmental conservation by achieving a score of 97.4% in the Sustainable Fishing Index, according to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). This marks an impressive rise from just 8.9% in 2018 and is the sixth consecutive year of improvement. This achievement coincides with World Oceans Day, further emphasizing the emirate’s role as a leader in sustainable fisheries management.

The EAD’s efforts to enhance marine sustainability reflect a commitment to conserving natural resources while promoting the optimal use of marine assets. This initiative aligns with the Abu Dhabi Government’s vision to combine economic growth with environmental sustainability, illustrating the emirate’s dedication to addressing environmental challenges and protecting marine ecosystems for a sustainable future.

Recent monitoring by EAD has revealed encouraging findings, including the landing of 55 Nuaimi fish, which have been rarely seen in recent years. Additionally, the first recorded presence of the white-spotted grouper has now been registered in the international FishBase database. Other rare species, such as the large-scaled triggerfish and the spotted oceanic triggerfish, have also been sighted, indicating healthier marine ecosystems due to the ongoing conservation efforts.

EAD has put in place a series of policies aligned with international standards aimed at recovering fish stocks. These measures involve regulating commercial fishing through sustainable practices and introducing new guidelines for recreational fishing. Furthermore, six marine reserves have been established within the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network, where fishing activities are regulated. The Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative also enhances sustainable aquaculture and fish stocks through coral culture and artificial reefs.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, remarked that the progress in the Sustainable Fisheries Index highlights Abu Dhabi’s leadership in environmental conservation. She emphasized the commitment to using best management practices and scientific research to restore fish populations and protect marine ecosystems. This success reinforces the importance of evidence-based policies and global best practices for the conservation of natural heritage for future generations.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the EAD launched the National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries in March 2019. This initiative aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of marine resources and is based on previous outcomes of the UAE Sustainable Fisheries Program from 2016 to 2018.

The framework, which is set to be fully implemented by 2030, seeks to mitigate the environmental impacts of overfishing in UAE waters. It promotes fisheries that are sustainable, economically viable, and socially responsible, addressing the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.

The national plan outlined in the framework focuses on restoring and replenishing fish stocks across the UAE, employing optimal methods to ensure sustainability on both national and local levels. Key actions include management measures designed to reduce the pressures on fisheries within both commercial and recreational sectors, alongside enhancing fish stocks through research and development in aquaculture and rehabilitating habitats through artificial reefs. The timeline for the framework extends to 2030, allowing sufficient time for recovery of fish stocks, assuming appropriate management actions are implemented, in line with global recovery benchmarks that typically last up to 12 years.