Agricultural practices in the UAE: Heritage & Science

Agriculture is one of the main pillars of the culture and history of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reflecting the nation’s rich heritage, wisdom and tradition manifested in various practices. Among these practices are initiatives undertaken by the late founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy upon him.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is committed to providing support to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. It has formulated plans and strategies aimed at sustainable food security, promoting healthy nutrition, enhancing agricultural productivity, and ensuring its sustainability. The agricultural sector in the UAE has received noteworthy attention, serving as a model for other nations. The UAE has been keen on establishing agricultural practices that combine ancestral knowledge with modern sciences and technologies. The agricultural heritage carries ancient experiences and valuable local knowledge, while scientific research contributes to expanding and updating this knowledge based on modern discoveries and innovations. 

In light of these principles, it was imperative for us at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) to shed light on these practices meriting study, research, and both local and global participation.