Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award is instrumental in generating an agricultural boom with a focus on sustainability, according to the winners of the award.
In alignment with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, the third edition of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award was held at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA).
The event honoured 55 winners, celebrating the theme “An Innovative Farmer and Breeder with a Sustainable Vision.”
Speaking to Aletihad, Eng. Ahmed Salem Alkaabi, Acting Head of the Date Palm Development Section at ADAFSA, said, “The third edition of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award showcases significant progress. The competition this year was stronger, reflecting the expanding impact of the award and growing interest from new farmers. Government support for agricultural sustainability, biosecurity and increased production is key to enhancing food security. The award emphasises innovation, sustainability, and biosecurity, all essential for driving sector development.”
Aletihad spoke to the winners in various categories.
Hamed Al Hamed, founder of Gracia Group and Chairman of the Emirates Agricultural Pioneers Association, secured third place in the category of Best Greenhouse Farm.
“We are thrilled to win the award four times. This award has sparked a major agricultural revolution, significantly increasing the number of farmers and their interest in farm development. It motivates them to advance, and many are now eager to participate in future seasons. We are deeply grateful to His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed and our leadership for their continuous support.”
He added that the group uses locally developed agricultural systems, instead of imports, stressing that this innovation has been a key factor in their success.
Offering a word of advice to prospective farmers, he said: “Agriculture is full of untapped opportunities, especially with the rise of agricultural tourism. We aim to attract young people into this field, providing them with the support and guidance they need. Representing the Emirates Agricultural Pioneers Association, we are committed to fostering this vital sector.”
Mohammed Hassan Ali Al Zaabi, who secured the second place, in the Best Beekeeper category, said the award is a boost for developing local bee breeds.
“We thank the wise leadership for their continuous support, which helps us achieve food self-sufficiency and strengthens our global competitiveness. While bees may be challenging to raise, they offer significant benefits in health and nutrition. With this support, we remain optimistic about future growth and development, and we look forward to even better production ahead,” Al Zaabi added.
For Agricultural Innovation in Plant and Animal Production, Mohammed Shu’aib Al Hammadi was awarded third place. “Winning motivates us for the future, and we aim for first place next time. My project produces biogas from farm and poultry waste to heat poultry houses,” Al Hammadi said.
He urged farmers to take good care of the land as “it will return the favour.”
In the Outstanding Female Breeder category, Salma Salman Al Hinai secured first place.
“I am honoured to win the award as a sheep breeder this year. On my farm, we crossbreed sheep, aiming for high-quality meat, increased twin rates, and better milk production.”
She noted that preserving the environment and promoting sustainability is key to building a strong country. “I encourage farmers to participate in these awards. They bring positive impact and help achieve self-sufficiency for you, your family, and your community.”
Boost to Beekeeping Industry
In the Best Beekeeper category, Amal Abdullah Ahmed Al Hammadi secured the fifth place.
“I am proud to have won this award. We focus on sustainability and innovative methods in beekeeping, linking it to food security and science. We have introduced technology, created new products like crystallised creamy honey, and even collected bee venom, despite environmental challenges.”
She highlighted the UAE leadership’s unlimited support for farmers and livestock breeders.
“This award marks the beginning of continuous development in beekeeping. It will serve as a launchpad for further excellence, and I aim to expand the field and raise awareness about the vital role bees play in pollinating agricultural plants.”
