© Saqua
The farm is part of Saudi Arabia’s Centre of Excellence project, located in the Hail region, which is the largest trout farm in the Middle East and designed to be a model of production for other farmers. It officially started operation on 29 December.
The farm is equipped with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) manufactured, supplied and installed by Saqua, a Saudi aquaculture systems factory, which has now completed more than 10 projects in the Gulf region, covering aquaculture systems for freshwater and marine species, including warm-water and cold-water fish.
This pioneering project received governmental support, as it is in line with national plans to become more self-sufficient and enhance food security.
Saqua has also included an aquaponics system in the farm, which is designed to grow fruit and leafy greens using water from the fish tanks to nourish the plants. The plan is to produce 10 tonnes of fruit and veg this year, and 20 next year.
In terms of fish production, once at capacity - which is expected to be reached within two years - the farm is slated to annually produce:
- 10 million eggs
- 5 million fingerlings
- 100 tonnes of trout
Saqua stated in a press release: “This project highlights our expertise in providing advanced solutions for aquaculture, including breeding systems, hatcheries, nurseries, on-growing and aquaponics.
“What has been achieved not only represents a technical and artistic accomplishment but also embodies the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to enhance economic diversification, making the Kingdom a global centre for sustainable investment in the aquaculture sector.
“With this inauguration, we are opening new doors towards a distinguished agricultural and industrial future.”
