ADAFSA and Korea Collaborate on Smart Farming in UAE
The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) is making great strides in agricultural sustainability through innovative programs and projects. By working with partners, ADAFSA is implementing smart and modern agricultural practices to support the nation’s food security efforts.
Research Stations and Technologies
ADAFSA operates three applied agricultural research stations that focus on developing and adopting technologies suited to the UAE’s environment. These stations address challenges like soil, climate, and water scarcity. Managed by skilled national staff, they use advanced irrigation systems, integrated pest management, and modern agricultural technology.
Partnership with Korea
In May 2019, ADAFSA signed an MoU with the Korea Rural Development Administration (KRDA) to enhance cooperation in agricultural research. This led to the KOREA-UAE Smart Farm Research Project at the Al Kuwaitat Research Station in Al Ain. Established in 1969, this station covers 50.6 hectares and focuses on innovative research for food security and environmental sustainability.
Under this project, a greenhouse model suitable for desert climates and a closed hydroponic system for growing fruits and vegetables were developed. The greenhouse covers 2,070 square meters, with a 1,536-square-meter area for soil-less cultivation experiments.
Expert Insights
Suhail Mohsen Saleh Al-Thaibani, a lead agricultural researcher, highlighted the project as a prime example of bilateral cooperation. Noura Saeed Al Nuaimi, principal agricultural researcher, emphasized the project’s role in strengthening the strategic partnership between the UAE and Korea. She noted the introduction of modern technologies like advanced cooling systems and hydroponics to enhance greenhouse climates and productivity.
Awad Khalifa Al-Nuaimi, another agricultural researcher, stated that ADAFSA aligns with the government’s sustainability and food security strategy. The authority collaborates with Khalifa University on a modern agricultural technologies program to improve productivity and environmental sustainability. This program includes initiatives like ‘Agriculture 4.0’ using ICT and AI, ‘Post-Harvest Management’ to minimize product loss, and ‘Climate-Smart Practices’ to establish standards for climate-smart agriculture in Abu Dhabi.