Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI / WAM (AL AIN REGION)
While new-age technology is redefining how food is farmed, raised, and produced, it is those who tend the land who remain at the heart of the agriculture industry. In the UAE, a supportive ecosystem ensures they are growing not only their crops but also their skills.
At the ongoing Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026 (EmiratesACE), the National Agriculture Centre (NAC) is spotlighting how Emirati farmers are innovating, adopting sustainable practices, and embracing modern techniques in their mission to boost domestic production and strengthen the UAE's food security.
The centre set up a farmers' market at the event, uniting 200 farmers who brought their harvests, cattle, and fresh, organic products to the exhibition.
"We have beekeepers, vegetable and fruit farmers, date farmers, and those involved in processing industries, not to mention livestock owners," said Sultan Al Shamsi, Managing Director at the NAC.
The goal, he said, is to spotlight the local impact the sector is driving. "We want to showcase the role of Emirati farmers in local production and their contribution to food security."
Empowering Farmers
Within the supportive ecosystem the UAE has established for the agriculture sector, grants are among the key enablers that empower farmers and accelerate innovation.
One of them is Silal's Farm Innovation Fund, which opened applications during the agri-tech food company's participation in EmiratesACE.
Launched by Silal's Innovation Oasis, the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to support Emirati farmers and advance the sustainability of the national agricultural sector.
The Farm Innovation Fund aims to enable farmers to develop, test and scale innovative agricultural solutions that enhance productivity, improve efficiency and strengthen competitiveness, while supporting the UAE's national food security strategy.
Under the programme, five farmers will be selected annually through a competitive process, with each receiving up to Dh200,000 in financial support, in addition to specialised technical mentorship from Silal experts and partners.
Dr Shamal Mohammed, CEO of Innovation Oasis, said the initiative provides a practical platform to help Emirati farmers transform their ideas and field expertise into scalable projects, supporting increased productivity, improved resource efficiency and a more resilient food security system.
Over five years, the fund is expected to support 25 farmer-led projects, contributing to improved crop productivity, greater water and energy efficiency, and the development of commercially viable agricultural ventures.
