SCCI, partners boost fisheries sustainability in Sharjah

January 14, 2026 / 5:33 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) held a coordination meeting with the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority and the Kalba Municipal Council to enhance institutional collaboration and advance the sustainability of the emirate’s fisheries sector, a key pillar of food security and the national economy.

High-level participation

Held at SCCI’s headquarters, the meeting was attended by His Excellency Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI; His Excellency Ali Ahmed Abu Ghazin, Chairman of the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority; and His Excellency Dr Obaid Saif Hamad Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Kalba City Municipal Council. Also present were board members, directors-general, senior officials, and department heads from the three entities.

Supporting fishermen and sector sustainability

Discussions focused on strengthening joint coordination frameworks to enhance services for fishermen and address key operational and regulatory challenges facing the fisheries sector in Kalba and across Sharjah. Participants emphasised improving efficiency, sustainability, and overall sector performance.

Fish drying factory project in Kalba

The meeting highlighted the importance of close coordination on establishing a fish drying factory in Kalba, in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The project was described as a flagship initiative aimed at boosting local fish production efficiency and strengthening marine-based processing industries.

SCCI’s vision for fisheries development

His Excellency Abdallah Sultan Al Owais affirmed that the fisheries sector is a core economic activity and a vital contributor to national food security. He stressed the need for innovative frameworks that preserve maritime heritage while adopting global best practices in fisheries resource management. He also underscored SCCI’s commitment to empowering national talent through training, professional development, and support for SMEs linked to the sector.

Enhancing partnerships and operational solutions

Al Owais highlighted the strategic value of coordination with the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority and Kalba Municipal Council to deepen public-private collaboration, transform challenges into growth opportunities, and develop advanced logistical and technical solutions to support fishermen and improve local production efficiency.

Focus on sustainable fishing and regional growth

H.E. Ali Ahmed Abu Ghazin noted that the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority is working closely with its partners to deliver practical projects addressing fishermen’s needs. He praised SCCI’s role in supporting economic sectors and promoting sustainable fishing mechanisms to enhance fish stock sustainability.

Kalba’s role as a fisheries hub

His Excellency Dr Obaid Saif Hamad Al Zaabi highlighted Kalba’s strong maritime potential, noting that structured coordination among the three entities will enhance fishermen-focused infrastructure and services. He added that this collaboration will strengthen Kalba’s position as a key fisheries hub in the Eastern Region and deliver tangible benefits to the wider community.