Abu Dhabi Achieves 100% Sustainable Fisheries Index by 2025

Abu Dhabi has achieved a remarkable milestone in marine conservation, reaching 100% on its Sustainable Fisheries Index by the end of 2025, up from just 8% in 2018. This success highlights the emirate’s effective approach to restoring fish stocks through scientific policies, habitat protection, and sustainable management systems.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), said the achievement reflects the strong support of UAE leadership, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

He noted that this success comes from an integrated research and development project supported by the Presidential Court, which uses advanced scientific methods to monitor fish stocks and analyse marine ecosystems. These modern, data-driven technologies guide policies and legislation, making marine sustainability a key pillar of national security and a strategy to boost food security while reducing reliance on imports.

His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of EAD, added that the rise in the Sustainable Fisheries Index is the result of carefully planned legislation, policies, and scientific procedures, which helped rebuild fish stocks faster than global standards.

Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, said that achieving a 100% index sets a global benchmark for marine resource management. She highlighted the collaboration between EAD, the National Guard, Fishermen’s Association, and the community, supported by scientific data.

Dr Al Dhaheri explained that Abu Dhabi has moved from a protection phase to a prosperity phase, focusing not just on protecting marine life but actively rebuilding it. The long-term programme is supported by the Sustainable Fisheries Policy, artificial intelligence, and the research vessel Jaywun.

EAD continues to protect and restore marine habitats with projects to rehabilitate ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and increase marine productivity. Efforts include developing coral gardens, deploying 40,000 artificial reef modules, and using AI to monitor fishing activities and environmental data.

Abu Al Abyad Island also runs a programme to release fish fingerlings raised in controlled ponds, helping compensate for losses from overfishing and natural pressures. This strengthens marine biodiversity and contributes to sustainable fisheries.

Through these initiatives, Abu Dhabi has become a global model for sustainable natural resource management, using science, technology, and community partnerships to rebuild and protect marine life for future generations.