ABU DHABI: Two Emirati experts are driving the UAE’s food and agriculture sector forward, supporting the national Plant the Emirates initiative. This effort, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflects the late Sheikh Zayed’s vision of sustainable land development and food security.
Ahlam Al Marzooqi, Director of Conformity at the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and an expert in the National Experts Programme (NEP), focuses on quality and safety standards in agriculture. Her role includes certification programmes ensuring compliance with organic farming and sustainability practices. “My work supports Plant the Emirates by promoting national and international standards for sustainable agriculture,” she shared.
Highlighting progress, Al Marzooqi noted that certified organic farms in the UAE increased to 86 in 2023. She emphasised the importance of transitioning from chemical to organic farming, followed by rigorous inspection and certification processes.
Hamad Al Shehhi, also an NEP expert, specialises in AgriTech and food security. His focus is on attracting advanced agricultural technologies tailored to the UAE’s climate. Al Shehhi supports the UAE’s vision of resilient food systems by enhancing local production and reducing import dependency.
He underlined the importance of innovative approaches like vertical farming and land-based aquaculture to maximise crop yields while conserving water in desert conditions. Exploring alternative proteins, such as plant-based and lab-grown options, is also key to addressing climate challenges and boosting food self-sufficiency.
Al Shehhi emphasised the UAE’s leadership in adopting AgriTech solutions, aiming to attract global innovators. Abu Dhabi’s goal to achieve AED 128 billion in sector investments reflects this commitment.
Through such initiatives, the UAE is fostering a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that not only boosts food security but also inspires future generations.
