In the heart of Sharjah, a green revolution is unfolding, defying the harsh realities of desert agriculture. The Mleiha Wheat Farm, a brainchild of Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has proven that even in the most challenging environments, technology and strategic planning can pave the way for agricultural triumphs.
The farm, sprawling across 1,400 hectares, is a testament to human ingenuity and technological prowess. Launched in 2022, it has not only achieved impressive crop yields but has also produced what experts are hailing as the world’s highest protein wheat. This feat is a result of rigorous testing of over 1,500 seed varieties, with only three proving suitable for Mleiha’s unique climate and soil conditions. The star of the show is ‘Saba Sanabel’, or ‘Seven Spikes’ in English, a wheat variety that is setting new standards in the agricultural world.
The farm’s success story is intertwined with its innovative use of technology. Advanced AI and precision farming techniques have created a fully automated, organic wheat cultivation system. This isn’t just about automation for the sake of it; it’s about creating a system that is efficient, sustainable, and responsive to the unique challenges of desert agriculture. Abdelaziz Hassooni, Head of Data Gathering at the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, explains, “We call technologies our ‘third eye’. We have continuous, 24/7 monitoring of the farm, tracking everything from soil moisture to nitrogen levels and water usage.”
Water efficiency is another area where the farm has made significant strides. By implementing smart irrigation systems and utilizing thermal imaging, the project has managed to reduce water consumption by 30-40%, using approximately 3,000 cubic meters per hectare—significantly less than initial projections. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the water scarcity issues prevalent in desert regions.
The farm’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its organic approach, completely free from chemicals, pesticides, and GMO seeds. With minimal human intervention, just twenty workers manage the entire 1,400-hectare operation, representing a model of technological agricultural efficiency. Looking ahead, the team plans to expand their success by supporting local farmers and exploring the cultivation of additional crops, potentially transforming agricultural practices in the region.
The implications of this desert miracle are far-reaching. It’s not just about growing wheat; it’s about reimagining what’s possible in agricultural technology and food production. In a world grappling with climate change and food security issues, the Mleiha Wheat Farm offers a glimpse into a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand. It’s a beacon of hope, showing that even in the harshest of conditions, with the right tools and strategies, we can cultivate a greener, more sustainable future.
