Key Takeaways:
- Strategic Partnership: A 27-year agreement between Food Tech Valley and Badia Farms will bolster the UAE’s sustainable food production.
- Innovative Farming Models: Badia Farms will employ vertical and horizontal farming on a 236,000 sq. ft. plot, using clean energy and water-efficient methods.
- Food Security Focus: The partnership aligns with UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, reducing import reliance and boosting local production.
- Controlled, Pesticide-Free Growing: Badia’s produce will be grown in a pesticide-free, controlled indoor environment, ensuring premium-quality food.
Building a Sustainable Food Ecosystem: Food Tech Valley’s Commitment
In a significant step towards securing the UAE’s food future, Food Tech Valley, a government-led initiative, has announced a strategic 27-year agreement with Badia Farms, a pioneering hydroponic grower backed by Gulf Islamic Investments (GII). Under this partnership, Badia Farms will employ hybrid farming models to cultivate premium fruits and vegetables year-round. This includes a mix of vertical and horizontal farming techniques spread across a 236,000-square-foot plot.
The signing, attended by Rashed Mohammad, Chief Real Estate Officer of Wasl, and Omar Al Jundi, Founder and CEO of Badia Farms, underscores the UAE’s commitment to adopting sustainable agricultural methods. “This long-term partnership with Badia Farms is a significant step towards achieving the UAE’s ambitious food security goals,” stated Mohammad. “By supporting cutting-edge technologies and collaborating with industry leaders like Badia Farms, we are creating a robust and resilient food ecosystem that will benefit the nation for generations to come.”
Advanced Farming Techniques to Reduce Environmental Impact
Badia Farms’ hybrid farming approach incorporates advanced hydroponic techniques that use 90% less water than traditional farming, a crucial benefit in arid regions like the UAE. The farm will operate with clean energy, ensuring sustainability and minimizing the environmental impact of food production. By growing in a controlled indoor environment without pesticides, Badia Farms will provide fresh, nutritious produce that meets rigorous quality standards, aligning with Food Tech Valley’s vision of a health-oriented and sustainable food supply.
Omar Al Jundi of Badia Farms commented on the partnership, saying, “We are proud to be among Food Tech Valley’s partners in advancing food security. Through our expertise in hydroponic farming, Badia Farms will continue to provide fresh, nutritious produce safely and sustainably.”
Food Tech Valley: Supporting UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051
This partnership represents a substantial stride toward the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, which aims to increase local food production and reduce reliance on imports. As food demand in the UAE is expected to rise, the country is focusing on innovation-driven projects that can enhance food security. Initiatives like Food Tech Valley are crucial in attracting industry leaders, fostering collaboration, and implementing sustainable practices in agriculture.
