Page 500 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JANUARY 2025
P. 500
1/22/25, 9:46 AM AeroFarms AgX: UAE's pioneering model of the world’s largest vertical farm and a green tourism destination - Aletihad News Center
seedlings for various fruits and vegetables, increasing their ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions.
Seedling quality is a critical factor in the successful growth and yield of crops.
The partnership will also focus on evaluating and testing crops in high demand from consumers, including chili
peppers, sweet peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, broccoli, zucchini, watermelon, eggplant, strawberries, and
berries.
The UAE has become the first Arab country to adopt innovative vertical farming methods in its agricultural production,
in line with its efforts to support a sustainable future for crop production.
This move is aimed at achieving food security and promoting diversity in agricultural outputs, which aligns with the
nation's vision for long-term sustainability.
Vertical farms are expected to revolutionize the future of agriculture, particularly in regions with harsh climates.
These farms utilise advanced technologies to produce crops in a controlled, closed ecosystem where factors such as
temperature and lighting can be optimized.
The farms rely on hydroponics, eliminating the need for soil or pesticides, and are structured with vertically stacked
shelves to maximize space.
The UAE has adopted a clear approach to enhancing its food security through a comprehensive system for food
production and management, using modern technologies to address challenges such as water scarcity and limited
arable land.
Globally, there is an increasing trend toward the development of vertical farming as a promising solution to food
security challenges.
These farms offer operational efficiency and year-round harvests.
They can also be located close to markets and consumers in urban areas, with flexible and varied spaces that
significantly reduce transportation costs and contribute to mitigating global supply chain disruptions.
Vertical farming also offers advantages in terms of reducing the risk of foodborne diseases, lowering the need for
inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, and cutting water consumption through recycling.
Studies have shown that vertical indoor farms can yield crops such as wheat at 220 to 600 times higher per acre than
https://en.aletihad.ae/news/business/4544517/aerofarms-agx--uae-s-pioneering-model-of-the-world-s-largest 4/5