This study examined trends in seafood imports and the characteristics of seafood distribution channels in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and analyzed the product selection criteria of local importers and distributors and the constraints on Korean seafood exports. To this end, field surveys were conducted at fish markets, hypermarkets, and premium and specialty retail outlets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, together with interviews with representatives of local export support agencies and import and distribution companies. The findings showed that local and imported seafood was sold primarily in fresh/chilled form at fish markets and hypermarkets, whereas high-value imported seafood used by hotels and fine-dining restaurants was supplied through specialized importers. When selecting seafood products, local importers and distributors gave priority to freshness and price, while also considering product size and appearance, consistency in quality, supply stability, and import documentation. The distribution of Korean seafood varied by product. Gim (laver products) was sold at hypermarkets and Korean specialty retailers, whereas frozen and processed seafood was sold mainly at Korean specialty retailers. Korean olive flounder was sold as a high-priced live fish at a Chinese specialty retailer. The main constraints on Korean seafood exports were insufficient product information, high logistics costs, and difficulties in preparing import documentation. Taken together, these findings indicate that Korean seafood exports should follow a phased, product-specific expansion strategy that reflects each product’s distribution base and market characteristics, with priority given to products with demonstrated market potential rather than the simultaneous promotion of multiple products.

Abstract
I. 서 론
Ⅱ. 연구 설계
    1. 연구 문제
    2. 조사 및 분석방법
Ⅲ. 분석 결과
    1. UAE 수산식품 수입 및 한국의 對UAE 수출 동향
    2. UAE 수산식품 유통채널의 유형과 특성
    3. 현지 수입 및 유통업체의 제품 선택 시 고려요인
    4. 한국산 수산식품의 수출 제약요인과 확대 방향
Ⅳ. 결 론
REFERENCES

• 강효슬(한국해양수산개발원 수산연구본부 전문연구원) | Hyo-Seul Kang (Senior Researcher, Fisheries Policy Research Department, Korea Maritime Institute, Busan, 49111, Rep. of Korea)
• 김지웅(국립부경대학교 해양수산경영경제학부 교수) | Ji-Ung Kim (Professor, Department of Marine Business and Economics, College of Fisheries Sciences, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Rep. of Korea) Corresponding author