Project Financed by

World Organisation for Animal Health

Strengthening Aquatic Animal Health in the Middle East

The Middle East's aquaculture sector plays a vital role in regional food security and economic development. As aquatic production intensifies to meet growing demand, protecting animal health and preventing disease outbreaks becomes increasingly critical.
The AQuatic Middle East NETwork (AQMENET) brings together thirteen countries in a coordinated effort to build resilience, share knowledge and strengthen the technical and institutional capacity needed to safeguard aquatic animal health across the region.
Through collaborative surveillance, emergency preparedness, and adherence to international standards, AQMENET supports the sustainable growth of aquaculture while protecting both animal and public health.

Last news and events

from 26/10/2025 to 29/10/2025

AQMENET Technical and Steering Committee Meet...

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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News

The First Aquatic Middle East Network (AQMENE...

March 22, 2023
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News

Saudi Arabia launches Aquatic Animal Diseases...

November 27, 2022
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About AQMENET

The AQuatic Middle East NETwork (AQMENET) is a regional platform established to strengthen the prevention, early detection, and control of aquatic animal diseases across the Middle East.
Coordinated by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Regional Representation for the Middle East, AQMENET connects national laboratories, veterinary authorities, and international partners to promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and technical capacity building.

Through its initiatives, the Network supports the sustainable growth of the aquaculture sector, safeguards aquatic animal health, and contributes to food security and public health in alignment with the WOAH Aquatic Animal Health Strategy.

Quick Facts

  • 13 Member Countries: Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
  • Coordinated by: WOAH Regional Representation for the Middle East.
  • Committees: Steering Committee (SC) and Technical Committee (TC).
  • Focus Areas:
    • Disease prevention, diagnostics, and surveillance
    • Aquatic biosecurity and emergency preparedness
    • Prudent use of antimicrobials and AMR monitoring
    • Research and capacity building
    • Information sharing and laboratory collaboration

Events and News

AQMENET

AQMENET Technical and Steering Committee Meetings and National Focal Point Training for Aquatic Animals

September 19, 2025
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AQMENET

Regional Meeting on Aquaculture in the Middle East

November 25, 2022
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AQMENET

Saudi Arabia launches Aquatic Animal Diseases Network in the Middle East

November 27, 2022
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Aquatic Middle East Network

The First Aquatic Middle East Network (AQMENET) Steering Committee Virtual Meeting

March 22, 2023
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Forme

Partners and Collaborators

AQMENET operates through the collaboration of international and regional partners, including:

 

Join the Network

Be part of a regional community committed to advancing aquatic animal health. Connect with experts, laboratories, and decision-makers to support sustainable aquaculture development.

Related Information