The seafood consumption market in the Middle East, including fish, shrimp and crab, has differences compared to other parts of the world. Cold water fish such as salmon, tuna and other cold water fish are more popular. On the other hand, in the coastal areas of the Persian Gulf, tropical fish such as Middle Eastern fish (Bahramula), caviar and small catfish are more popular. Middle Eastern people prefer the taste of fresh seafood. Therefore, the consumption market of fish and other fresh marine products is very prosperous in this area. Also, the use of local Spices and various flavorings in these dishes also makes a difference.

The Fishery and seafood consumption market in West Asia, also known as the Middle East, is influenced by several factors such as geographical location, cultural preferences, economic conditions, and government policies. While fishery resources are not as abundant in this region compared to coastal areas, seafood consumption remains significant due to its popularity and nutritional value. Seafood consumption in West asia has been steadily increasing over the years due to population growth, rising incomes, and changing dietary habits. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United arab emirates (UAE), Iran, Kuwait, and Qatar are the major seafood-consuming nations in the region.

The demand for seafood is particularly high during religious festivals and traditional occasions when fish and other seafood dishes are integral to the cuisine.West Asia heavily relies on seafood imports to meet the growing demand. The region's fishery resources are limited, and the local production is inadequate to satisfy the consumption needs. Major seafood-importing countries in West Asia include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Kuwait, and Qatar. They source seafood products from various countries, including neighboring countries, as well as distant suppliers like India, Oman, China, and European nations. Some of the commonly imported seafood products include shrimp, fish fillets, crab, lobster, and other high-value species.

Government initiatives and investments in the fishery sector, along with collaborations between countries, can contribute to the sustainable growth of the seafood market in West Asia.The Middle Eastern cuisine has a rich tradition of seafood dishes, influenced by the region's coastal heritage. Fish, shrimp, and other seafood are integral components of traditional recipes and delicacies. Religious practices, such as the Islamic dietary laws (Halal), influence the seafood market. Consumers prefer seafood products that are certified as Halal, indicating that they have been processed according to Islamic guidelines.

In West Asia, different cooking methods are used for seafood. Among these methods, we can mention cooking fish in the form of kebabs, frying shrimps and crabs, preparing fish in the form of pilaf and seafood soups. In these countries, seafood restaurants are very famous and are a place to experience fresh and delicious seafood. These restaurants often have extensive seafood menus and are popular destinations for family outings and business meetings.

In some countries and regions of the Middle East, fish consumption is prohibited on certain days of the week, as a religious or cultural habit. This ban can have an impact on the seafood consumption market in these areas. The consumption of seafood Meat is very common in the Middle east compared to other types of meat, due to its geographical location and easy access to rich marine seafood resources, and it has a special place in the diet of the people of this region.

The consumption of seafood meat in the Middle East is very common compared to other types of meat, due to the presence of abundant marine Food resources in this region. Fishes, shrimps, crabs and other aquatics are considered as an important and widely consumed food source in the Middle East. In some countries such as Iraq, Iran, Oman and Kuwait, fish consumption is very popular and it is a part of people's daily diet. Aquatic meat is known as an excellent source of quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and Minerals such as selenium and Zinc . These characteristics, along with the special taste of seafood, have made their consumption very popular in the Middle East.

Several West asian countries have been investing in aquaculture to enhance local seafood production. Aquaculture helps reduce dependency on imports and supports the domestic seafood industry. Countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran have established aquaculture farms for shrimp, fish, and other seafood products. These farms utilize advanced technologies and sustainable practices to improve productivity. Limited fishery resources and overfishing in the region pose challenges to meeting the growing seafood demand. Environmental factors like increasing water temperatures, pollution, and habitat degradation can impact the availability and quality of seafood. However, these challenges also present opportunities for sustainable fisheries management, conservation efforts, and the adoption of innovative aquaculture practices.