KSA (King Abdul Aziz University) Prince of Hail Inaugurates Middle East’s Largest Salmon Production Excellence Center
Hail, Saudi Arabia — His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Hail Region, inaugurated the Excellence Center for Salmon Production on Tuesday. The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in collaboration with King Abdulaziz University, is set to produce 100,000 tons of salmon annually, marking a significant step in sustainable aquaculture development in Saudi Arabia.
The state-of-the-art facility, covering 10,000 square meters, was officially launched during a ceremony attended by Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Eng. Mansour Al-Mushaiti, and King Abdulaziz University President, Dr. Tareef Alaama. The event included a tour of the center and a presentation on its development journey, delivered by Dr. Ali Al-Sheikhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Livestock and Fisheries.
A Game-Changer for Sustainable Aquaculture
Located in the Al-Qa’id area of Hail, the Excellence Center incorporates advanced technologies, including recirculating aquaculture systems and an integrated aquaponics unit. The project aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on salmon imports, which currently stand at 23,000 tons annually, while supporting local production and food security.
The facility features hatcheries with an annual capacity of 5 million salmon juveniles, a fish farming unit producing 100 tons of commercial-size salmon, and an aquaponics system capable of yielding 10 tons of vegetables and fruits annually in its first phase. Plans are underway to expand production to 30 tons in the second phase.
Vision 2030 in Action
“This project exemplifies the goals of Vision 2030 by enhancing food security, promoting sustainable development, and creating economic opportunities,” said Prince Abdulaziz during the inauguration. “It positions Hail as a model for innovative agricultural investments.”
Dr. Fahd bin Muidh Al-Hasani, Director General of the Ministry’s Hail branch, emphasized the project’s significance, calling it a “pioneering initiative” that integrates research and innovation to support the aquaculture industry. “This center is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the public, private, and academic sectors,” he said.
A Collaborative Achievement
Dr. Tareef Alaama highlighted the role of King Abdulaziz University in the project, noting its contributions through research and expertise. “This milestone reflects the power of collaboration under the guidance of Vision 2030,” he stated, adding that the project advances sustainability while supporting national food security.
Deputy Minister Al-Mushaiti expressed gratitude for the support of Prince Abdulaziz and underscored the center’s importance as the largest of its kind in the Middle East. “This facility not only supports food security but also fosters innovation and employment opportunities in the region,” he said.
Future Prospects
The Excellence Center is designed to strengthen the Kingdom’s aquaculture sector, enhance local fish production, and reduce import dependency. With advanced technologies and a focus on sustainability, it serves as a benchmark for similar projects across the region.
As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward economic diversification and sustainable development, the Excellence Center for Salmon Production stands as a key pillar in achieving the nation’s ambitious goals.
