Page 285 - DUBAI MUNICIPALITY ENGLISH PR REPORT JUNE 2024

6/3/24, 10:03 AM Dubai Municipality announces winners of ‘Dubai's Best Homegrown Produce Competition' held under Dubai Farms initiative
In keeping with Dubai Municipality's commitment to fostering community practices, the competition
encouraged citizens to promote sustainable agriculture for its vital role in supporting food security,
self-sufficiency, and the preservation of environmental resources. This commitment further aligns
with the objectives of the National Food Security Strategy, as well as the Dubai Food Security
Strategy, which seeks to enhance domestic production and reduce food loss and wastage, thereby
solidifying Dubai's position as a leading destination that seamlessly blends environmental and food
sustainability.
Innovative Practices
The winning gardens adopted the most cutting-edge and innovative methods and practices in
modern agriculture, which are in line with the national strategic goals for food security,
sustainability, and clean energy. As part of the initiative, the Municipality addressed the
competition's positive impact on communities, and its success in promoting local participation in the
development of sustainable and self-sufficient societies.
Advanced Agricultural Systems
Dr. Sultana Osman Yousef Suleiman's Garden, located in District 1, Jumeirah, came in first place
and was awarded AED 50,000, in addition to a ‘Medal of Dubai's Best Homegrown Produce,' which
was presented by the Dubai Municipal Leaders. Dr. Sultana's garden met several requirements,
including the cultivation of multiple fruit and vegetable varieties using aeroponic systems, which are
among the latest agricultural systems used. The garden also employs an advanced system for
cooling greenhouses, a water treatment and recycling system, as well as bacteria to improve the
quality of irrigation water, all of which contributed to its success. In addition, the garden features a
drying system for agricultural products, distinctive distillation system for aromatic plants.
Furthermore, the garden was distinguished by its advanced drying system for agricultural products
and a unique distillation system for aromatic plants. Additionally, it boasted a trademark that
represented the garden and its commitment to sharing agricultural knowledge and culture.
Agricultural Diversity
Ms. Naeema Mohammed Al Amiri's garden in Al Garhoud secured the second position, with a cash
award of AED 30,000. The innovative aquaponic system and abundance of plant species made this
garden a top pick for the panellists. The garden features lakes for fish and fountains, and since the
water from the lake has a significant nutrient content, it is recycled and used as fertiliser which
greatly benefits the plants. Moreover, the garden is equipped with an advanced underground
irrigation system that effectively minimises water wastage and evaporation. The garden's
ecosystem is further enhanced by an apiary, which plays a crucial role in pollinating plants and
producing honey and meshes seamlessly with the landscaping.
Sustainable Practices
The third place and a prize of AED 20,000 went to Mr. Jamal Abdullah Almuheiri's garden in Nad Al
Sheba 2. Mr. Almheiri's garden showcases a range of cutting-edge agricultural techniques that
produce a wide range of fruits and vegetables. Notably, his garden stands out for its cultivation of
Azolla, a feed source for poultry and livestock. By using a gravity-powered hydroponic system,
Almheiri can produce high-quality dried produce, while also conserving energy. The panellists found
this approach to be particularly noteworthy as it complies with the highest health and safety
standards.
A total of 109 participated in the contest, out of which 12 qualified for the final stage. Out of these
finalists, three winners were selected based on a set of technical and specialized standards. The
Dubai Municipality has actively encouraged residents' agricultural endeavors by offering valuable
resources and support. These initiatives aim to promote sustainable agriculture among citizens, as
well as increase the contribution of small-scale home agricultural projects to the GDP of the
Emirate.

https://www.godubai.com/citylife/press_release_page.asp?PR=179432&Sname=Government, Legal & Humanity 2/3