SHARJAH: Sharjah has welcomed the second batch of cows at Sharjah International Airport, marking a significant step in expanding the Mleiha Dairy Farm. This expansion aligns with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, aiming to grow the herd to 8,000 cows by the close of 2025 to meet the rising demand for fresh, organic Mleiha milk, known for its natural and unaltered qualities.

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This latest delivery brought in 1,300 purebred “A2A2” genetic cows, known for producing milk that is easier to digest. An additional 1,500 cows are scheduled to arrive early next year, bringing the herd size closer to the goal of 20,000 cows over the next three years. This initiative supports Sharjah’s commitment to sustainable food security and public health, ensuring a stable supply of quality dairy products.

Dr Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock (SDAL) and CEO of EKTFA (Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment), emphasised the alignment of this expansion with Sharjah’s evolving food security strategy. With the second batch included, Mleiha Dairy Farm now houses 2,500 cows, all fed organic feed free from chemical fertilisers, pesticides, and genetic modification. Some of this feed is sourced from Mleiha’s local wheat farm, ensuring a sustainable cycle.

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Dr Al Tunaiji highlighted that the farm’s growth to 20,000 cows will help meet both local and Gulf market demands as consumers increasingly seek healthy, organic options. EKTFA is dedicated to advancing public health through sustainable food practices and actively collaborates with institutions like Al Dhaid University on research. This initiative reflects Sharjah’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, using modern technology to secure a resilient food supply while preserving natural resources.