Key Takeaways:
- Silal has inaugurated the Innovation Oasis (iO), a dedicated agritech R&D facility in Al Ain, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aligning with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051.
- The iO aims to promote sustainable, climate-resilient farming solutions and advanced food production systems, including AI-enabled agriculture and saltwater-resistant crops.
- The event also marked the launch of the Advance AgriTech Academy, an education and training initiative in collaboration with global institutions to support Emirati talent in agricultural innovation.
- Silal signed a cooperation agreement with the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) to expand research collaboration and offer scholarships to support national agricultural sustainability.
- The facility spans 300,000 square metres and features modern laboratories and field research areas, creating an ecosystem for collaboration among researchers, startups, and industry stakeholders.
Silal Launches Innovation Oasis to Support Agritech Research and Food Security
His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Ain Region, inaugurated Silal’s Innovation Oasis (iO), a facility designed to serve as a hub for agricultural technology development in the UAE. The initiative supports the country’s broader goal of enhancing food security and sustainability through research, in line with the National Food Security Strategy 2051.
During the event, His Highness emphasized the importance of investing in agritech research to bolster local food production, drive innovation, and build a knowledge-based economy.
Advances Education with Launch of AgriTech Academy
In conjunction with the opening of the iO, Silal (Profile) also launched the Advance AgriTech Academy, a new platform for developing future agritech professionals in the UAE. The academy will offer specialized training and career development programmes in collaboration with international research institutions.
His Highness witnessed the signing of an agreement between Silal and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) to expand joint research efforts. The partnership includes five scholarships for students from UAEU’s College of Agriculture, reinforcing a shared commitment to academic excellence and agricultural innovation.
Silal’s Innovation Oasis Designed as a Multi-Disciplinary Research Ecosystem
Spanning more than 300,000 square metres, Silal’s Innovation Oasis includes state-of-the-art research infrastructure such as laboratories, growth chambers, and controlled field environments. The facility is structured to encourage collaboration among scientists, technology developers, and agricultural practitioners.
Key areas of focus include:
- Climate-resilient farming systems adapted to high temperatures
- Water-energy-food integration using solar thermal desalination
- IoT-based precision agriculture systems
- Development of saltwater-resistant crops
- Application of AI, robotics, and data analytics in farm management and supply chain optimisation
Leadership Perspectives on Silal’s Role in Agritech Development
Salmeen Obaid Alameri, CEO of Silal, described the facility as a step forward in enhancing the UAE’s agricultural resilience. “Innovation Oasis (iO) is redefining the future of agri-food in the UAE. Through research, technology, and knowledge transfer, we are reinforcing our commitment to national food security,” he said.
Dr. Shamal Mohammed, CEO of the Innovation Oasis, and Humaid Al Rumaithi, CEO of Food Security at Silal, were also present during the inauguration, highlighting the organization’s multi-level engagement with public institutions and academic partners.
3 Comments