Fishermen are being given half-price equipment to encourage Emiratis to continue in the profession.
The Ministry of Environment and Water has distributed 430 new nautical engines and 655 naval cranes, all at half price.
Sultan bin Alwan, acting assistant undersecretary for water resources and nature conservation, said the move was because of the economic and social importance of fishing. It is a renewable, natural resource that contributes to the UAE's food security and provides a livelihood for many Emiratis.
Fishermen had been asking for engines and cranes at customer-service centres, he added.
To receive the subsidised equipment, fishermen had to show they were dedicated to their profession, self-employed, supported a large family and were committed to the laws on sustainable fishing, said Salah Abdullah Al Raisi.
He said the department of fisheries would hold meetings with fishermen and suppliers, to train them on using and maintaining the equipment.
