Abu Dhabi, UAE – 28 November 2024: Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, the largest operator of integrated and purpose-built economic zones  the region, today announced plans to develop a specilaised zone for aquaculture and related industries.

The zone is the result of growing demand within the industry for dedicated infrastructure and connectivity to serve the domestic and international markets from Abu Dhabi. KEZAD Group is a key partner in Abu Dhabi's AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (Agwa) Cluster, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office.

Agwa aims to provide a key platform to support local suppliers and exporters to maximise commercial opportunities, and ease pressure on agriculture systems, and by 2045, this cluster is expected to contribute AED90 billion in incremental gross domestic product to the Abu Dhabi economy, create more than 60,0000 new jobs and attract AED128 billion in investments

Aquaculture is a key driver of sustainable food production as it alleviates pressure on wild fish resources. Currently, the UAE consumes approximately 220,000 tonnes of seafood annually, with 70 per cent of this demand being met through imports. KEZAD's new aquaculture zone is designed to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen domestic production.

By developing a hub for aquaculture and related industries, KEZAD Group is not only enhancing the UAE's food supply chain but also establishing the country as a regional leader in sustainable seafood production, as the UAE aims for attaining the No 1 position on the Global Food Security Index by 2050.

Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group said: 'Food security is a top priority for the UAE, and KEZAD Group is proud to contribute to this national and regional objective in line with our wise leadership's vision, and in support of the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051. Our planned aquaculture zone will strengthen our country's resilience, reduce reliance on imports, and create a sustainable model for food production in the region.

'The aquaculture zone is part of KEZAD Group's broader strategy to provide world-class industrial ecosystems that cater to high-growth sectors. This initiative complements ongoing efforts for food security, while addressing regional challenges in food supply and sustainability.'

The global aquaculture market was valued at approximately $244 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $360.6 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 4.5 per cent. In the Middle East and Africa, the aquaculture market is expected to grow to $22.3 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 4.8 per cent. This growth underscores the increasing demand for sustainable seafood production in the region.