Abu Dhabi, UAE – July 16, 2025 – Gulf Aquaculture, the UAE’s leading aquaculture company specializing in premium Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) production, is proud to announce a significant expansion of its operations in alignment with the UAE’s national food security strategy. With its state-of-the-art hatchery and sustainable farming systems located in Al Gharbia, Gulf Aquaculture is positioned at the forefront of regional aquaculture innovation.

The expansion includes increased hatchery capacity, enhanced biosecurity measures, and the implementation of advanced recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) aimed at boosting annual production volumes to meet the growing demand for high-quality, locally farmed seafood.

Pioneering Aquaculture in the UAE

As climate change and population growth place increased stress on traditional agriculture, aquaculture is becoming a vital pillar in the UAE’s food ecosystem. Gulf Aquaculture is the first company in the Emirates to commercially farm Barramundi — a fast-growing, protein-rich white fish that thrives in the region’s warm waters.

“Our mission is to provide the UAE with a reliable, sustainable source of premium seafood,” said Dr. Fady Georges, Managing Director of Gulf Aquaculture. “This expansion allows us to not only scale our operations but also set a new benchmark for responsible aquaculture in the Middle East.”

Local Production, Global Standards

Gulf Aquaculture’s fish are raised without antibiotics or growth hormones, ensuring clean, healthy seafood that meets both local and international standards. By sourcing broodstock and managing the full production cycle domestically — from hatchery to harvest — the company significantly reduces its environmental footprint and dependence on imports.

With traceability, food safety, and sustainability at its core, Gulf Aquaculture is proud to contribute to the UAE’s goal of increasing local food production by 50% by 2030.

Supporting the Circular Economy

The company has also initiated several eco-innovative practices, including the repurposing of organic fish waste as nutrient-rich fertilizer, helping local farmers reduce reliance on synthetic products. This closed-loop system further reinforces Gulf Aquaculture’s commitment to a circular economy model in aquaculture.

Strategic Partnerships and Innovation

In collaboration with leading academic institutions and government agencies, Gulf Aquaculture is investing in research and development to optimize feed efficiency, improve disease resistance, and enhance genetic performance of its Barramundi stocks.

“Through innovation and collaboration, we are building a resilient aquaculture industry that will serve the UAE for generations,” added Dr. Georges. “Our goal is not just to produce fish, but to nurture an entire ecosystem of knowledge, sustainability, and food sovereignty.”

Looking Ahead

With its finger on the pulse of consumer trends and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, Gulf Aquaculture is poised to play a central role in the UAE’s Blue Economy vision. The company also plans to explore export opportunities across the GCC, leveraging the UAE’s strategic position as a regional logistics hub.

For more information, visit www.gulfaquaculture.com or follow Gulf Aquaculture on LinkedIn.