Saudi Arabia Aquaculture Market Overview

Market Size in 2024 : 459,000 Tons

Market Size in 2033: 817,000 Tons

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 6.6%

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication,"Saudi Arabia Aquaculture Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2025-2023", The Saudi Arabia aquaculture market size reached a production volume of 459,000 Tons in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 817,000 Tons by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% during 2025-2033.

Growth Factors Driving the Saudi Arabia Aquaculture Industry

• Rising Seafood Demand

The growing appetite for seafood in Saudi Arabia is a major driver for the aquaculture industry. With a population exceeding 33 million and increasing health awareness, more people are turning to protein-rich seafood like fish and shrimp for its nutritional benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture reports that per capita seafood consumption is around 11.7 kg, with ambitions to raise it to 20 kg. This surge is fueled by changing dietary habits and a rising expatriate population, particularly in coastal cities like Jeddah and Dammam. The National Fisheries Development Program is investing heavily to boost local production, aiming to meet this demand and reduce reliance on imports, which currently account for a significant portion of seafood supply.

• Government Support and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is transforming aquaculture into a cornerstone of economic diversification. The government has set a target to produce 600,000 tons of seafood annually, backed by substantial investments and policies. The National Fisheries Development Program is channeling over $4 billion to modernize the sector, offering subsidies, incentives, and training for 3,000 Saudis in aquaculture techniques. Partnerships, like the one between King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, are enhancing production capabilities. Recent initiatives include issuing 18 aquaculture licenses in the Mecca region and launching a salmon production center aiming for 10,000 tons annually. These efforts are creating jobs and reducing dependence on oil, making aquaculture a vital economic pillar.

• Technological Advancements

Innovative technologies are propelling Saudi Arabia’s aquaculture industry forward. Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) allow farming in controlled environments, improving efficiency and sustainability despite water scarcity. Companies like the National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) are adopting IoT, AI, and remote sensing to monitor water quality and fish health, boosting yields. Biotechnology is also being used to develop disease-resistant fish strains, enhancing productivity. For instance, NAQUA’s facilities along the Red Sea produce 100,000 tons annually, leveraging advanced systems. The government supports these advancements through research collaborations and infrastructure development, ensuring high-quality seed stock and efficient logistics. These technologies are critical for meeting domestic demand and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global seafood exporter.

Trends in the Saudi Arabia Aquaculture Market

• Sustainable Aquaculture Practices

Sustainability is a growing focus in Saudi Arabia’s aquaculture market, driven by environmental concerns and global trends. Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) is gaining traction, where species like fish, shrimp, and algae are farmed together to create ecological balance. NEOM’s Topian, launched as a sustainable food company, emphasizes regenerative aquaculture to minimize environmental impact. The SAMAQ certification ensures products meet international standards for responsible practices, with over 140,000 tons of certified seafood produced in a recent year. These efforts align with Vision 2030’s goal of sustainable food security, attracting eco-conscious consumers and investors. By prioritizing water conservation and reducing waste, the industry is setting a global benchmark for environmentally friendly aquaculture.

• Growth in Shrimp Production

Shrimp farming is booming in Saudi Arabia, holding the largest share of aquaculture output. The Saudi Statistical Authority notes that shrimp accounts for nearly half of the 139,900 tons of aquaculture production. The government’s pilot project in Tabuk for inland shrimp farming, in collaboration with international partners, highlights this trend. Companies like NAQUA, a global leader, are expanding facilities to produce 250,000 tons by 2030, meeting 42% of national targets. Rising demand in urban centers and tourist hotspots like Riyadh, which welcomed 11.9 million visitors recently, fuels this growth. Improved cold chain logistics and processing facilities ensure high-quality shrimp reaches both domestic and export markets, strengthening the industry’s economic impact.

• Tourism-Driven Seafood Demand

The booming tourism sector is reshaping Saudi Arabia’s aquaculture market by driving demand for premium seafood. With over 18 million tourists visiting in a recent year, cities like Jeddah and Riyadh are seeing increased seafood consumption in hotels and restaurants. The Ministry of Tourism reports Riyadh alone accounts for 14.5% of domestic tourism, boosting demand for diverse offerings like sea bass and shrimp. Companies like Almunajem Foods and Saudi Fisheries are investing in processing and distribution to cater to this market. The government’s push for value-added products, such as ready-to-eat seafood meals, aligns with this trend, enhancing the dining experience for tourists and supporting local producers in meeting high standards.

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Saudi Arabia Aquaculture Industry Segmentation:

The report has segmented the market into the following categories:

Breakup by Fish Type

• On the Basis of Production
• Freshwater Fishes
• Diadromous Fishes
• Marine Fishes
• Crustaceans
• Others
• On the Basis of Consumption
• Pelagic Fish
• Freshwater and Diadromous Fish
• Crustaceans
• Demersal Fish
• Others

Breakup by Environment:

• Marine Water
• Fresh Water
• Brackish Water

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Traditional Retail
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Channel
• Others

Competitive Landscape:

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Saudi Arabia aquaculture market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA)
• Saudi Fisheries Company (SFC)
• Arabian Shrimp Company
• Asmak Holdings
• Jazan Energy, and Development Company (Jazadco)
• Tabuk Fisheries Company

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Future Outlook

The Saudi Arabia aquaculture market is poised for significant growth, driven by continued government support, technological innovation, and rising consumer demand for sustainable seafood. Initiatives under Vision 2030, such as the National Fisheries Development Program, will likely attract further investments, enabling the Kingdom to achieve ambitious production targets and reduce import dependency. The integration of advanced technologies like AI-driven monitoring and biotechnology for disease-resistant fish strains will enhance efficiency and resilience. However, challenges like water scarcity and environmental regulations must be addressed through sustainable practices. With strategic partnerships, such as those with international firms, and a focus on high-value species like shrimp and salmon, the market is set to become a global leader in sustainable aquaculture, contributing to food security and economic diversification.

Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Note: If you require specific details, data, or insights that are not currently included in the scope of this report, we are happy to accommodate your request. As part of our customization service, we will gather and provide the additional information you need, tailored to your specific requirements. Please let us know your exact needs, and we will ensure the report is updated accordingly to meet your expectations.

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