Qassim: The fish farming sector in Qassim Region has witnessed rapid growth in recent years, driven by the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing food security and developing promising agricultural sectors in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This growth has been achieved despite the environmental challenges associated with the region's desert climate and limited water resources.

According to Saudi Press Agency, fish farming in Qassim relies on raising fish in controlled aquatic environments, including concrete and earthen ponds and tanks, supported by advanced systems for water quality management and feeding control. These technologies enhance production efficiency and operational sustainability.

Tilapia is among the most prominent fish species farmed in the region, alongside catfish and other species, depending on the nature of the projects and the technologies used. The sector contributes to food security by providing a local source of high-quality protein, while also diversifying farmers' income sources and maximizing the use of available water resources, including treated water. It also supports the local economy by generating direct and indirect employment opportunities.

To address water scarcity, fish farms in the region have adopted advanced technologies, most notably recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), which reduce water consumption and improve water-use efficiency. Integrated aquaponics models have also been introduced to strengthen the synergy between fish farming and agricultural production.

Assistant Director General for Technical Affairs at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in Qassim, Engineer Salah Al-Abduljabbar, emphasized the branch's strong commitment to the aquaculture sector as one of the targeted strategic tracks within Saudi Vision 2030. He highlighted ongoing efforts to expand specialized projects, strengthen private sector partnerships, and develop supply and marketing chains to ensure sustainable, high-quality production.

Al-Abduljabbar further noted that the sector represents one of the promising investment fields, supported by expanding supply and manufacturing chains, increasing capacity to meet local demand, and an increasing orientation toward exports, which will enhance the Kingdom's regional and global standing in the aquaculture industry.