How UAE Transformed Barren Desert Into Green Wheat Farm
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- Agribusiness Africa
- February 25, 2024
- News & Analysis
“In Sharjah, UAE, a once-barren desert landscape has been transformed into a thriving wheat farm spanning 400 hectares, with plans to expand to 1,900 hectares. Inaugurated by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the farm is set to yield 1,700 tonnes of wheat using advanced, pesticide-free techniques. Equipped with satellite monitoring, soil sensors, and pivot irrigation systems, the farm optimizes water use based on weather forecasts. Scheduled for harvest in mid-March, the wheat aims to bolster local food security, reducing the UAE’s reliance on wheat imports and ensuring availability in local markets by May or June. Source: Daily Trust
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In Sharjah, UAE, a remarkable transformation has occurred with the establishment of a 400-hectare wheat farm in Mleiha, expanding to 1,900 hectares in phases. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi inaugurated its first phase, heralding the farm’s shift from a barren desert to a lush agricultural hub set to produce 1,700 tonnes of wheat annually. Scheduled for harvesting between March 15 and 20, the grain aims to supply local markets pesticide-free and without genetically modified seeds. Dr. Khalifa Musabeh Ahmed Alteneiji, chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, highlighted the farm’s advanced technologies, like satellite monitoring and soil sensors, which optimize irrigation efficiency based on real-time weather forecasts. This sustainable approach aims to reduce water waste and maximize crop yields, underscoring the UAE’s initiative to enhance food security by decreasing reliance on wheat imports.