NAQUA: Unraveling the Meaning in a Name – The Strength and Excellence of a Global Aquaculture Leader

The third version, نقوا, was the selected rendition for the company,
a decision laden with purpose as it translates to "being strong". 

In the barren expanse of the desert, a powerhouse in the global aquaculture and seafood landscape rose, ambitiously tearing down the borders of possibility – National Aquaculture Group or more commonly known as NAQUA. Yet, it wasn't until recently, only a week ago to be exact, that the deeper significance of its name, clothed in the elegance of Arabic language, was made known to me and is truly acknowledged and appreciated.

In 2018, the company embraced the acronym NAQUA as its official name, a portmanteau of the words 'National Aquaculture Group.' To many, the name NAQUA was just a simplification, a convenient coining that encapsulated a vastly complex operation. Yet, unknown to most, managers and employees alike, the name takes an elevated and richer meaning in the beautiful Arabic script.

Written in Arabic, NAQUA can manifest in three variations – نقوى, نقوة, and نقوا, each iteration carrying its own deeply symbolic meaning that reverberates through the ethos of what this pioneering company represents.

The first two variants, نقوى and نقوة, as explained to me by Hassan Asmary, NAQUA's CHRO, signify "the best of the best." The analogy, encapsulated in the imagery of carefully selecting the prime dried date fruit from a plentiful basket, delineates the essence of NAQUA's quality – being chosen as the peak, the prime, the epitome of excellence.

NAQUA is not just the obvious choice among good options in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East; it stands as an unparalleled entity in the global arena, signifying not merely excellence, but apex excellence! This transcendent interpretation of excellence is mirrored in the company's relentless dedication to nurturing and producing the finest aquaculture products and services. The brand unequivocally is the best of the best!

The third version, نقوا, was the selected rendition for the company, a decision laden with purpose as it translates to "being strong". Indeed, NAQUA's more than 30 years of industry leadership in the demanding and ever-changing sphere of desert coast aquaculture farming crystallizes this very strength. It's no longer about merely surviving; it's about consistently thriving in challenging terrains, exhibiting robustness, resilience, and opulence.

With an indomitable spirit and an undeniably resilient  track record, NAQUA withstood the test of time, evolving into a formidable leader in the industry. The recent acquisition of a 42.4% stake by the Saudi Agricultural & Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) not only exemplifies NAQUA's monumental strength but also the company's profound commitment to aquaculture advancements and food sustainability. This strategic partnership illuminates NAQUA's targeted towards the Vision 2030, an enriched and self-sustaining Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by 2030.

The Arabic translations of NAQUA – strength and apex excellence – are far from mere coincidences; instead they resonate deeply with the company's vision, mission, and the quality of services it offers. While these interpretations of NAQUA have been hidden in plain sight, their recent discovery has shed light to me on NAQUA brand's deeper essence, encapsulating a proud legacy and an unwavering commitment to leading the global aquaculture and seafood industry.