FAQs

1. Are you asking me to stop eating fish?

Not at all. Fish are full of nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They are a delicious and important part of many traditional and modern dishes. We are asking all UAE residents to safeguard our beloved fish for the future, by choosing to buy and eat the sustainable 'green' fish listed in our consumer guide. These fish are just as healthy and nutritious, and are not in danger of being depleted. Be adventurous! Try these new fish and discover new ways of cooking them.

Take part in our Fish Dish Challenge by sending us your sustainable recipes.

2. Why is Hamour overfished? I see it everywhere!

The high demand for Hamour has placed excess pressure on stocks. The ecology of these species makes them particularly susceptible to being overfished: they are long-lived, grow slowly and mature only when they are 2-3 years old. Currently, they are being caught before they reach maturity and are thus not given the opportunity to reproduce.

The fact that we see Hamour everywhere in large quantities gives us the false impression that our seas are full of them. This is far from the truth! Despite being in decline, the Hamour population is still being fished out at over 7 times the sustainable level.

3. I am just one person. How can my choices help?

Your choices can make a big difference. As consumers, we are the end users of fish resources. Accordingly, we are responsible for how they are used - or abused. We have a chance to significantly shift demand away from overfished species to ones in better shape. What we ask for at fish souqs, supermarkets and restaurants determines demand.

4. What about fish that are not in the consumer guide?

The consumer guide focuses on the most popular local species of fish found fresh in markets and stores across the emirates, for which stock assessments were carried out. It is designed to provide science-based information on the most important commercial fish caught and sold in the UAE. Other local fish are not included because no information is currently available on the status of the stock.

5. If you are asking me to buy the 'green' fish; won't they become overfished too?

The consumer guide lists 11 local fish species in the "green" and "orange" sections because their stocks are not currently being depleted. Their biological and ecological characteristics make them less susceptible to overfishing: they are fast-growing and mature early, which allows the stock to be renewed at a faster rate. Furthermore, redistributing demand from a few highly popular and overfished species to 11 sustainable alternative options helps avoid placing excess pressure on one particular type of fish.

6. Will store and restaurant staff be able to advise me on which fish is sustainable?

Awareness of overfishing in the UAE is still growing and some staff may not be able to advise you. As more people grow conscious of the issue, information on sustainable fishing will become more widely available. We recommend taking your consumer guide with you to help you make sustainable choices.

As a conscientious and environmentally aware consumer, you should be proud that you are making a difference. Share what you know about overfishing with your friends and family and tell them why you care. Swim ahead and lead the way!