In a significant stride towards bolstering the United Arab Emirates’ food security and sustainable agriculture, His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, inaugurated two pioneering initiatives: Silal’s Innovation Oasis (iO) and the Advance AgriTech Academy. These launches underscore the UAE’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies and fostering local talent to address future food security challenges.
The Innovation Oasis, a sprawling 300,000 square metre research and development facility, is set to become a hub for agritech innovation. It will focus on developing climate-resilient farming techniques, optimised controlled environment agriculture, and resource-efficient food production. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, iO will serve as an incubator for agritech startups, researchers, and industry leaders to collaborate and drive progress in the sector. The facility’s key focus areas include addressing the UAE’s extreme temperatures, integrating solar thermal desalination for water-food-energy solutions, and exploring AI-driven food systems to enhance farm management and reduce food waste.
The Advance AgriTech Academy, established in collaboration with global research institutions, aims to nurture the UAE’s next generation of agritech leaders. The academy will offer specialised programmes in career guidance and practical training, equipping Emirati talent with the skills needed to drive innovation in food and agriculture. This initiative is a crucial step in building a knowledge-driven economy and ensuring the UAE remains at the forefront of global agritech solutions.
His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the strategic importance of investing in agritech research, stating that it is vital for advancing sustainable local production, supporting innovation, and strengthening food supply chains. He was accompanied by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and key figures from Silal and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU).
The inauguration also marked the signing of a cooperation agreement between Silal and UAEU. This partnership aims to strengthen collaboration in agricultural research and innovation, including offering five scholarships to students from the College of Agriculture at UAEU. The scholarships will focus on agricultural sustainability and food security, further supporting academic excellence and national talent development.
Salmeen Obaid Alameri, CEO of Silal, highlighted the significance of these initiatives, stating that they are redefining the future of agri-food in the UAE. By fostering strategic partnerships and focusing on research and innovation, Silal is driving progress and positioning the UAE as a global leader in agritech solutions. The launch of the iO Advance AgriTech Academy further reinforces Silal’s commitment to developing local talent and ensuring the UAE’s continued leadership in agricultural innovation.
The inauguration of iO and the Advance AgriTech Academy, along with the cooperation agreement with UAEU, represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s journey towards achieving the objectives of the National Food Security Strategy 2051. These initiatives will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable farming practices, strengthening food security, and addressing regional and global food security challenges.
