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Fishermen urge for resumption of traditional fishing practices in Kuwait Bay

Kuwaiti Fishermen's Union Head, Abdullah Al-Sarheed, reiterates demands to allow fishing of mullet (known locally as meid) and other species in Kuwait Bay. This proposed action, to be overseen by the relevant authorities and in line with existing regulations, is aimed at areas suitable for...

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Fishing community voices renewed advocacy for authorizing meid fishing in Kuwait Bay
Fishing community voices renewed advocacy for authorizing meid fishing in Kuwait Bay

Fishermen urge for resumption of traditional fishing practices in Kuwait Bay

In the heart of Kuwait, the Kuwaiti Fishermen's Union has renewed their calls to reopen Kuwait Bay for fishing mullet (meid) and other species, but the bay remains closed due to regulatory and ecological considerations [1]. The Public Authority for Agriculture and Fish Resources (PAAFR) reports that the fish are still within the bay, with their small size and environmental factors like high winds affecting fishing activities [2].

The head of the Fishermen's Union, Abdullah Al-Sarheed, emphasised the Union's willingness to collaborate with all concerned authorities to ensure sustainable marine food security for Kuwait [1]. He commended the role of the PAAFR's Fisheries Sector in advancing the fishing industry and backing fishermen's demands [1]. Al-Sarheed also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance's Support Committee for their support of the Fishermen's Union [1].

Fishermen are ready to supply both meid and shrimp at affordable prices, starting from the beginning of the fishing season on August 1 [1]. Al-Sarheed also commended the efforts of Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, the Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, for his commitment to food security and support for the agricultural and fisheries sectors [1].

However, no new details about the commitment of Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem or specifics about the reopening of Kuwait Bay, fishing seasons, or prices of meid and shrimp have been mentioned [1]. Al-Sarheed also did not mention any new information about consumer demand or the current yield of designated fishing areas [1].

The call for the reopening of Kuwait Bay is made under the supervision of relevant authorities and in accordance with established regulations [1]. Al-Sarheed asserted that meid fish typically inhabit shallow waters [1]. He also acknowledged the role of the Coast Guard and Naval Forces, led by Brigadier General Sheikh Mubarak Ali Al-Yousef, in ensuring the safety of fishermen during their trips [1].

The ongoing closure of Kuwait Bay for mullet fishing raises economic, environmental, and social implications. Economically, opening the bay could provide local fishermen with access to a valuable fishery resource. However, there are risks to fish population sustainability if fishing begins before fish reach adequate size and numbers, possibly depleting stocks [1]. Environmental considerations linked to seasonal conditions and marine ecosystem health must also be weighed [1]. Social and regulatory tensions may arise if fishing is opened prematurely or without proper controls in place [1].

Despite these challenges, Al-Sarheed expressed optimism about the future, citing a growing understanding among officials regarding the fishermen's concerns [1]. He expressed hope that persistent challenges facing the fishing sector would soon be addressed [1]. As of mid-2025, the Public Authority for Agriculture and Fish Resources continues to monitor fish size and environmental factors in making regulatory decisions [1][2]. The authority is committed to balancing economic and ecological interests to ensure a sustainable future for Kuwait's fishing industry.

[1] Al-Rai, (2025). Kuwait Bay Remains Closed for Mullet Fishing. [online] Available at: https://www.alraimedia.com/business/kuwait-bay-remains-closed-for-mullet-fishing [Accessed 20 Jul. 2025]. [2] Al-Seyassah, (2025). Mullets Still Within Kuwait Bay. [online] Available at: https://www.al-seytasah.com/news/kuwait-mullets-still-within-kuwait-bay [Accessed 20 Jul. 2025].

  1. The head of the Fishermen's Union, Abdullah Al-Sarheed, has expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance's Support Committee for their financial backing, which is crucial for the Union's operations.
  2. In addition to their collaboration with the PAAFR, the Fishermen's Union is also keen on working with other business sectors, including the general-news sector, to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable marine food security for Kuwait.
  3. Apart from the political issues surrounding the reopening of Kuwait Bay, the food-and-drink industry stands to benefit significantly if the bay is opened for fishing, as it could provide a steady supply of affordable fish like mullet and shrimp.

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