Fish crisis engulfing parts of UAE

A fish crisis is sweeping across the UAE, though it has yet to reach the markets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Arabic daily Al Ittihad reported on fish prices soaring in the Western Region and Ras Al Khaimah as well.

The inhabitants of the Western Region have called for price controls at the fish markets, after the cost of fish saw a recent spike.

The residents of the region have also complained of a lack of supply of fish and accused fish traders of selling stale fish.

The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority has assured consumers of a continued inspection campaign and that they would destroy any fish suspected of being not suitable for human consumption.

Hamda Al Mansouri, an affected citizen said, “The price of fish is very high in the Western Region compared with prices in Abu Dhabi.”

Um Huzaim, another resident said she is forced to travel to Al Marfa’a city 100km away to buy fish of any quality.

She says there is a price difference of as much as Dh40.

The vendors however said that fish prices are subject to several considerations.

Jamal Sa’ad Abu Mansour, a dish dealer explains, “The amount of fish being caught has declined significantly, which has led to a lack of supply and price rises.”

Tala’at Al Rifai Al Rifai, a fish trader attributed the high prices in Al Marfa’a City to the increase in the costs of transport and storage in the Souk Madinat Zayed.

Meanwhile, Al Ittihad reported that the price of fish in Ras Al Khaima also continues to be very high due to lower fish supply.

Consumers reported very high prices, while traders blamed the absence of fish coming in from Oman during this time of year.

A number of fishermen of the emirate told the newspaper that the last two months have witnessed losses for fishermen due to a drop in catch and high fuel prices.

Overfishing and water pollution are other issues affecting the industry.

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