On August 1, fishermen in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province will embark on a new shrimp fishing season. Spanning six months, this period offers a promising opportunity for local fishermen to capitalize on the rich aquatic resources of the Arabian Gulf.

Expansive Coastline for Shrimp Fishing

The shrimp fishing activities will take place along approximately 1,000 kilometers of coastline in the Eastern Province. This stretch runs from the northern Khafji Governorate to the southern Uqair Governorate, providing ample territory for fishermen to explore and harvest shrimp.

In anticipation of the 2024 shrimp season, authorities have granted permission for 710 fishing boats to participate. This fleet includes a mix of large and small vessels, allowing for a diverse range of fishing capabilities. The distribution of boats across various ports is as follows:

• Manifa Port: 30 fishing boats
• Safaniya Port: 20 fishing boats
• Jubail Port: 330 fishing boats
• Qatif Port: 160 fishing boats
• Darin Island Port: 170 fishing boats

Support from the Ministry

Fahd bin Ahmed Al-Hamzi, the director of the Eastern Province Branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, shared insights regarding the ministry’s support for fishermen. The ministry has streamlined the process for obtaining shrimp fishing permits, significantly reducing processing times and offering online application services. This initiative is set to enhance the efficiency with which fishermen can prepare for the season.

In addition to permit facilitation, the ministry is launching a series of infrastructure improvements. Plans are in place for the development of new fishing ports and the establishment of a program to supply and install engines and emergency radios on fishing boats. These enhancements aim to bolster the safety and efficiency of operations for shrimp fishermen throughout the Eastern Province.

Commitment to Sustainability

Saudi Arabia remains dedicated to sustainable fishing practices and is actively working to protect fish stocks while supporting the livelihoods of its fishermen. Efforts include significant investments in aquaculture projects, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for shrimp fishing in the region.