United Arab Emirates (UAE) Frozen Fish and Sea Food Market Overview, 2029

The fish and seafood market in the UAE reflects the country's deep-rooted maritime heritage and its modern, cosmopolitan outlook. UAE residents, as well as visitors, are drawn to the market's vibrant atmosphere, where the sights, sounds, and smells evoke a sensory experience unlike any other. Local fish markets not only serve as hubs for buying and selling seafood but also as cultural landmarks where traditional fishing practices intersect with modern trade dynamics. The UAE government places a strong emphasis on food safety and sustainability, implementing stringent regulations to ensure that the seafood sold in local markets meets high-quality standards and adheres to international guidelines for responsible fishing practices. Additionally, the market's proximity to major international shipping routes and its role as a regional trade hub facilitate the availability of a wide range of seafood products from around the world, further enriching the culinary offerings in the UAE. As consumers become increasingly health-conscious and environmentally aware, there is a growing demand for organic and locally sourced seafood, prompting market vendors and restaurateurs to diversify their offerings and explore innovative approaches to meet evolving consumer preferences. In essence, the fish and seafood market in the UAE is not just a place to buy food; it's a dynamic ecosystem where culture, commerce, and sustainability converge to create a unique culinary experience.

According to the research report "United Arab Emirates(UAE) Frozen Fish & Sea Food Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the United Arab Emirates(UAE) Frozen Fish & Sea Food market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 280 Million by 2029. The fish and seafood industry in the UAE is marked by several intriguing facts that shed light on its significance and demand. Despite the arid climate, the UAE has developed a thriving aquaculture sector, leveraging advanced technology and sustainable practices to cultivate fish and seafood in controlled environments such as inland ponds and offshore cages. This initiative aligns with the country's vision for food security and diversification of its economy beyond oil revenues. Furthermore, the UAE's strategic location at the crossroads of East and West positions it as a key player in the global seafood trade, with Dubai serving as a vital re-export hub for seafood products destined for markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The demand for fish and seafood in the UAE is fueled by several factors, including the country's multicultural population, where diverse culinary traditions converge to create a high demand for a wide variety of seafood dishes. Additionally, the UAE's robust tourism industry, which attracts millions of visitors annually, contributes to the soaring demand for fresh and exotic seafood experiences. With an increasing emphasis on health and wellness, consumers in the UAE are seeking out nutritious and protein-rich seafood options, driving up demand for sustainably sourced fish and seafood products. Moreover, the rise of fine dining establishments and gourmet food markets in the UAE has further elevated the demand for premium seafood offerings, including imported delicacies like caviar, lobster, and sushi-grade fish.

The fish and seafood market industry comprises a diverse range of product types, each catering to specific consumer preferences and culinary needs. Fish is the most broadly consumed category, encompassing a variety of species such as salmon, tuna, cod, and tilapia, which are valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. Shrimp is another highly popular seafood product, known for its sweet flavor and adaptability in numerous dishes, from appetizers to main courses. It is widely available in different forms, including fresh, frozen, peeled, and unpeeled. Other seafood products encompass a broad spectrum of marine life, including mollusks (like clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops), crustaceans (like crabs and lobsters), and cephalopods (like squid and octopus). These products are often sought after for their unique textures and flavors, which add variety to culinary offerings. Additionally, there are specialty products like caviar, sea urchin, and seaweed, which cater to gourmet markets and are often considered delicacies. Each of these product types contributes to the richness of the seafood industry, meeting diverse consumer demands and supporting a wide array of culinary traditions across the globe.

Canned seafood is a staple in many households due to its convenience and long shelf life. The canning process involves cooking seafood at high temperatures and sealing it in airtight containers, which prevents spoilage without the need for refrigeration. Popular canned products include tuna, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies. Frozen seafood undergoes rapid freezing soon after harvest to lock in freshness, texture, and nutrients. This method is highly effective in preserving the quality of seafood for extended periods, often up to several months. Frozen products range from whole fish and fillets to shrimp and other shellfish. The versatility of frozen seafood allows consumers to enjoy a wide variety of species year-round, regardless of seasonal availability. Chilled seafood refers to fresh products that are stored at low, non-freezing temperatures, usually just above 0°C (32°F). This category includes fresh fillets, whole fish, shellfish, and sushi-grade seafood. Chilled seafood maintains its natural texture and flavor but has a shorter shelf life compared to canned or frozen options. It requires careful handling and prompt consumption to ensure safety and quality, making it a favorite for consumers seeking the freshest possible taste. Processed seafood encompasses a broad range of products that have undergone additional preparation methods to enhance flavor, shelf life, or convenience. This category includes smoked, cured, marinated, and breaded items. Examples include smoked salmon, surimi (imitation crab), fish sticks, and ready-to-eat seafood meals. Processing can add value by creating new flavors and textures, making seafood more accessible and appealing to different markets.

The sales channels in the fish and seafood market industry encompass various methods through which products reach consumers, each catering to different segments and preferences. Major fish auctions, often held at coastal markets, are pivotal in setting market prices and ensuring fresh seafood reaches various regions. Traditional sales channels include wholesale markets and fish auctions, where large quantities are traded, often directly from fishermen to retailers or processors. Retail channels, such as supermarkets and specialty seafood stores, provide consumers with access to fresh, frozen, and processed seafood products. Specialty seafood stores provide high-quality, often locally-sourced products, and cater to consumers seeking specific types of seafood or higher-end products. Online sales channels have seen significant growth, driven by the convenience of home delivery and the ability to offer a wider variety of products. E-commerce platforms and dedicated seafood delivery services provide consumers with fresh and frozen options, often with detailed information on sourcing and sustainability. Additionally, the foodservice channel, including restaurants and catering services, plays a crucial role in distributing high-quality and often premium seafood products. Direct-to-consumer sales, such as community-supported fisheries (CSFs) and farm-to-table models, are also becoming popular, offering traceability and a closer connection between consumers and producers. Many regions are significant exporters of fish and seafood, supplying international markets. Export channels are crucial for countries with large fishing and aquaculture industries, connecting them to global consumers and international foodservice markets.



Major companies in the market
Cargill Incorporation, Nomad foods, Hormel food, Rich Product Corporation, Al Kabeer group

Considered for the report:
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecasted year: 2029


Aspects covered in this report
• Frozen Fish & seafood Products with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various divers and challenges
• Ongoing trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
By Product
• Fish
• Shrimp
• Others
By Form
• Canned
• Chilled
• Frozen
• Processed

By Distribution Channel
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started, verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Fish & Seafood products industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.