Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced the launch of its groundbreaking sea cages aquaculture project, marking a significant advancement in sustainable seafood production.
Located in the southeast of Delma Island within the Al Dhafra Region, this initiative aims to address the dual challenges of overexploited wild fisheries and climate change impacts while bolstering food security.
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The innovative project consists of six floating sea cages, which are set to produce up to 100 tonnes of fish annually. These cages are home to a range of local high-value fish species, including Safi Arabi, Gabit, Shaam, and Sheri.
In total, 168,000 Safi Arabi, 122,000 Gabit, 100,000 Shaam, and 90,000 Sheri fish have been released into the cages. The initiative is expected to provide a sustainable source of seafood to meet the growing demand and support local food security objectives.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, highlighted the project’s alignment with the UAE government’s vision of enhancing aquaculture.
“As part of our efforts to promote sustainable aquaculture in the emirate and implement our sustainable aquaculture policy initiatives, we are conducting the first aquaculture cage project southeast of Delma Island, which will include the cultivation of local fish species that are vulnerable to overexploitation,” said Dr. Al Dhaheri.
The sea cages project is not only a step forward in terms of seafood production but also a model of technological and environmental innovation.
It features an advanced monitoring and data collection system utilizing artificial intelligence, making it the first of its kind in the Middle East.
This cutting-edge technology will manage aquaculture operations with high efficiency, incorporating environmental sensors to monitor marine water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and ammonia levels.
The project will also be equipped with underwater and surface cameras to track fish behavior and feeding efficiency.
A smart gateway for data transmission, powered by solar panels, will ensure real-time data collection and analysis, further enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.
Prior to the establishment of the sea cages project, EAD conducted comprehensive hydrodynamic and environmental modeling to identify suitable aquaculture development zones in the Al Dhafra Region.
This modeling assessed wave and particle movements, water quality, and the maximum biomass of fish that could be sustainably cultured without adverse environmental impacts.
The careful survey of potential sites was instrumental in selecting the most appropriate location for the project. The modeling ensured that the chosen site would support sustainable fish farming while preserving the marine environment.
This pioneering project reflects a broader commitment to sustainable aquaculture and responsible resource management.
By reducing pressure on wild fish stocks and addressing the challenges posed by climate change, the initiative supports the UAE’s broader environmental and economic goals.
The launch of the sea cages aquaculture project is expected to pave the way for future investments in the sector and stimulate further research and development in sustainable seafood production.
It underscores the UAE’s dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship in the face of growing global seafood demands.
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