Taking tilapia production to a new level in Saudi Arabia

Can you briefly describe your aquaculture career?

I hold a BSc in aquaculture from Al-Azhar University. During my studies, I took training courses in aquaculture systems before graduating, including in aquaponics and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). After graduation, I was awarded a scholarship from the American University in Cairo as part of the CARES Water Academy Professionals' Program, focusing on entrepreneurship, sustainability and fish farming.

I then moved to Saudi Arabia, leveraging my family's background in construction contracting and my aquaculture expertise, I transitioned into the design and construction of fish farms. I have since participated in the establishment of 18 fish farming projects across the Kingdom, with a focus on freshwater RAS.

In April 2023 I joined Gulf Union Limited Company, which specialises in the sale and production of aquaculture products, where I initially served as sales and marketing manager. [The year before I joined] annual production was 12 tonnes. I subsequently took over full management of the project and became the technical director. Under my leadership, we significantly increased output in record time, earned a quality certification, and positioned the project among the top three aquaculture ventures in Saudi Arabia.

What sort of production systems do you operate?

The farm is divided into three main sections: a hatchery, a nursery and a rearing unit. The hatchery occupies an area of 2,100 m² , while the total farm area spans 100,000 m². The entire project includes 212 ponds, distributed as follows:

• 80 rearing ponds, each with a diameter of 10 m
• A RAS nursery unit comprising 50 ponds, each 5 m in diameter
• The hatchery consists of 82 ponds, including 28 breeding ponds, 40 larval rearing ponds and 14 broodstock ponds.

The second phase of the project is currently underway and includes the addition of 50 ponds, each with a capacity of 260 m³. Upon completion of this phase, the project's total production capacity is expected to reach 600 tonnes of tilapia per year.

A portion of the wastewater is treated and recycled through the RAS, while the remaining water is used to cultivate wheat and fodder crops, such as alfalfa.

What’s your production capacity?

Last year, we achieved an actual production of 160 tonnes. This year, based on current performance indicators, we are on track to reach at least 260 tonnes, with optimistic projections of up to 300 tonnes by year-end.

Our hatchery has also reached a significant milestone, producing 6 million tilapia fry annually. This output is sufficient to fully meet the farm’s internal requirements [around 1.2 million], with the surplus fry being supplied to other farms.

What have been the farm’s major milestones so far?

One of our most significant achievements is the remarkable increase in production – from 37 tonnes in 2023 to an expected 300 tonnes by the end of the year. We have also obtained the SAMAQ certification, granted by the national aquaculture product certification programme.

The SAMAQ label signifies that our products comply with the best aquaculture practices in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and align with international guidelines and standards. It also guarantees the local origin, freshness and safety.

We take pride in producing high-quality tilapia fry from genetically improved strains. Our efforts have been recognised under the management programme, with particular emphasis on cost reduction and the implementation of a comprehensive risk management strategy.

What are the biggest challenges at work?

The challenges we face are common to fish farming in the region, including water scarcity and high production costs. In addition, we have a unique challenge: our strong ambition to increase production capacity, which requires continuous operational efficiency.

How do you ensure the quality of tilapia of the fry that you sell?

Due to the nature of hatcheries and the long distances between farms in Saudi Arabia, special care must be taken when transporting fry. It is essential to consider the specific requirements, based on the age and quantity of the fry, as well as the challenges posed by the hot climate. To ensure the health and survival of the fry, transportation must be carried out using air-conditioned vehicles to maintain optimal conditions.

What does a typical day’s work consist of for you?

My responsibilities typically include monitoring the condition of the farm and the hatchery, as well as reviewing detailed reports from each area, as I assign each worker to oversee a specific number of ponds, and they provide me with daily reports on their assigned units. In addition, I closely follow up on sales and harvesting operations, as we carry out daily sales activities to meet market demand.

What advice would you give to people interested in establishing a tilapia hatchery?

Relying on experience is fundamental, as it forms the foundation of any successful investment. Beginning on a small scale and gradually expanding allows for better control and learning. In addition to experience, several technical factors play a critical role – including proper hatchery design, selecting high-quality strains, and an annual renewal of broodstock.

What are your longer-term ambitions?

I aim to enhance the educational and training aspects of aquaculture, with a particular focus on practical, hands-on training. My vision is to establish a vocational academy dedicated to aquaculture, which will provide specialised training for fish farming professionals and produce a new generation of technically skilled workers. 

This initiative will help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and field application, ultimately contributing to the development of the aquaculture sector.

What farming systems do you think should be expanded in Saudi Arabia? 

Expanding integrated fish farming systems is essential to maximise the efficient use of water resources by combining aquaculture with other agricultural activities.

If you could solve one issue in the aquaculture industry, what would it be?

Addressing the negative reputation of farmed fish and promoting the culture of consuming aquatic protein is essential, as farmed fish still face scepticism among many consumers. By raising awareness and educating the public about the nutritional value, safety and sustainability of farmed fish, it is possible to change perceptions.