Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi records an unprecedented achievement by raising the sustainable fisheries index to 100%

Abu Dhabi, January 26 / WAM / The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi recorded an unprecedented rise in the sustainable fishing index, reaching 100% by the end of 2025, an achievement that is considered one of the largest in the world, after it had only exceeded 8% in 2018.

The results reflect the emirate’s success in restoring the balance of its marine resources through implementing strict scientific policies, effective habitat protection, and developing a sustainable system that enhances the abundance of fish stocks.

This rapid progress indicates the strength of the environmental management model in the emirate, and its ability to rebuild fish stocks according to the highest international standards.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, confirmed in a speech on this occasion that this achievement reflects the great support that the Authority enjoys from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God protect him, and comes under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chief of the Presidential Court. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan indicated that this achievement is the result of an integrated research and development project supported by the Presidential Office, during which advanced scientific methodologies were developed to monitor fish stocks and analyze marine ecosystems, and benefit from big data and modern technologies in supporting policies and legislation, based on the concern for the sustainability of natural resources as an integral pillar of comprehensive national security, and the belief that protecting marine resources is not just an environmental commitment, but rather a national strategy to enhance food security and reduce dependence on imports.

His Highness stressed that the rapid rise in the sustainable fishing index reflects the success of the strategic approach adopted by the emirate in managing its marine resources. His Highness said: “What has been achieved over the past years represents the result of a vision based on knowledge, innovation and regulation of maritime practices, in a way that preserves the balance of the sea and ensures the sustainability of its giving to future generations.”

His Excellency Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, pointed out that the big jump recorded by the sustainable fishing index comes within the framework of an integrated system of legislation, policies and scientific procedures that contributed to rebuilding fish stocks within a short period of time compared to international standards. He explained that this improvement reflects the accuracy of planning and the strength of implementation, and enhances the rational use of marine resources as an essential component of the sustainability of life and the long-term well-being of society.

Her Excellency Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, described the sustainable fishing index reaching 100% as “a historic transformation and a global model in marine wealth management.” She stressed that this achievement is “the result of a unique national partnership” that brought together the Authority with the National Guard, the Fishermen’s Association, and the community, which turned the challenge into a global success story supported by scientific data.

She added: “We have moved from the stage of protection to the stage of prosperity, and this is due to the confidence that the leadership has given us, and the commitment shown by our partners. Our role is not only limited to protecting the sea, but also rebuilding it faster and stronger.” She pointed out that this achievement is “just the beginning of a longer journey,” relying on the new policy for sustainable fisheries, and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and the research ship “Jeon.”

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi continues to enhance the protection of productive marine habitats through an integrated system of projects aimed at raising the sea’s productivity and restoring its environmental balance, which includes rehabilitating natural habitats, restoring ecosystems, and implementing expanded programs to enhance biodiversity, in addition to developing Abu Dhabi’s coral gardens, and landing 40,000 marine corals to provide attractive environments for fish. In parallel, the Authority is strengthening the regulatory and supervisory framework by relying on artificial intelligence and smart systems to monitor fishing effort and environmental data, supported by the capabilities of the “Jeon” research vessel, which provides accurate scientific data that supports the decision. The Authority relies on a wide network of monitoring and analysis programmes, and increased vital cooperation from partners, fishermen, volunteers and community members, who constitute an essential pillar in protecting and sustaining fish stocks.

In the same context, the administration of Abu Al-Abyad Island continues to implement an advanced program to spread fingerling fish produced in its specialized ponds, in an initiative that directly contributes to rebuilding marine wealth. The program works to compensate for losses resulting from natural pressures and fishing by releasing fingerlings grown in a healthy, controlled environment, which enhances their ability to adapt, grow and reproduce in the sea. This effort contributes to supporting biodiversity, restoring damaged marine habitats, and consolidating the sustainability of fisheries, thus enhancing efforts to protect and sustain the environment.

These innovative efforts and policies based on scientific data, partnerships and advanced technologies strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global model for sustainable management of natural resources, ensuring continued recovery and achieving the emirate’s goals of building a balanced marine system capable of renewing its resources for the benefit of society and future generations.

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