People in the eastern region are looking forward to the start of the shrimping season in the Arabian Gulf. This period occupies a special place among fishermen and seafood lovers, as it is one of the most prominent seasons when markets and restaurants are active and economic activity related to seafood increases.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has announced that the shrimp fishing season in Saudi territorial waters in the Arabian Gulf will begin on August 1, 2026 and continue until January 31, 2027, in accordance with regulations regulating fishing operations.
The organization of the fishing season is part of the country’s efforts aimed at conserving the wealth of living aquatic organisms, increasing the sustainability of fish stocks and achieving environmental balance, contributing to the protection of natural resources and supporting the sustainability of the fisheries sector.
consumer preferences
Hud Al Saha, a seafood shop owner, said: “Shrimp prices are affected by the abundance of supply and the amount of demand, as well as weather conditions, which directly affect fishing operations and production. Prices are often high at the beginning of the season, gradually fall from September to October, and rise again towards the end of the season.”
He said that consumer preferences vary by region, as brown shrimp are more popular in the eastern region, while in other parts of the kingdom most consumers prefer red shrimp in different sizes, adding that quality and freshness remain the most important factors in consumers’ choices.
Opportunities for families
“We are looking forward to the demand and this is the season that all workers in the fish industry are looking forward to. We ask Almighty God to make this season a season of blessings, sustenance and blessings for all,” said Muhammad Ahmed, a shrimp seller at a shrimp market in Eastern Province. He noted that demand is typically focused on jumbo shrimp and jumbo chicks. He explained that quantity demanded is linked to price because as price increases, demand decreases and vice versa.
Haya Al Haris, a housewife, said shrimp season is an opportunity for her family to buy fresh local shrimp. He said many households want to receive it early in the season because of the quality and taste that consumers prefer, and said he hopes the abundant supply will help stabilize prices during the season.
