#United Arab Emirates #Innovation Oasis #AgriTech Academy #Sheikh Hazza #Al Ain

Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Leads the Way in Agricultural Innovation

On April 25, 2025, Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the representative of the ruler in Al Ain, made a significant appearance at the inauguration of the Innovation Oasis (iO) and the Advance AgriTech Academy, both spearheaded by Silal. These initiatives represent the UAE's unwavering commitment to enhancing sustainable agricultural practices and food security, aligned with the National Food Security Strategy 2051.

Emphasizing Sustainable Practices

The Innovation Oasis is designed as a research and development hub that specifically targets agricultural technology advancements. As part of this initiative, Sheikh Hazza underscored the importance of investing in research that fosters local agricultural production. He highlighted that leveraging cutting-edge technology is essential not only for bolstering innovation but also for creating a knowledge-based economy in the UAE. Furthermore, he acknowledged the pressing need to strengthen food supply chains and address both regional and global food security challenges.

At the inauguration ceremony, notable attendees included members of the UAE's educational and agricultural leadership, such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Salmeen Obaid Al Ameri, CEO of Silal, among others. Together, they applauded the establishment of the Advance AgriTech Academy, which aims to cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders in the country.

The Role of Education and Collaboration

The newly formed academy will focus on training Emirati talents through specialized programs in collaboration with leading research institutions worldwide. The initiative will equip students with the skills needed for driving innovation in food and agriculture, ultimately aligning with the UAE's goals in sustainable development.

An agreement of cooperation was also signed between Silal and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) to enhance collaborative efforts in agricultural research. This partnership includes the provision of five scholarships aimed at encouraging students of the faculty of agriculture to pursue studies in sustainable agricultural practices and food security. This will support academic excellence and nurture local talents, essential for the UAE's future.

Building the Future

The Innovation Oasis spans over 300,000 square meters and is an ecosystem designed to foster collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, startups, and academics. The facility acts as an incubator for innovations in agronomy, concentrating on climate-resilient agricultural methods, controlled environment agriculture, and resource-efficient food production.

With state-of-the-art laboratories, growth chambers, and experimental facilities like greenhouses and field research plots, the iO aims to provide an advanced platform for developing and testing diverse agritech solutions. Key areas of focus will include climate-resilient agricultural techniques ideal for the UAE's extreme temperatures, integrative water-food-energy solutions incorporating solar thermal desalination, and precision agriculture driven by IoT technologies.

Additionally, the facility is set to explore AI-driven food systems, leveraging machine learning, robotics, and data analytics to improve agricultural management and post-harvest technologies. By enhancing supply chain efficiency and minimizing food waste, the Innovation Oasis positions the UAE at the forefront of global agri-tech solutions.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the Innovation Oasis and the Advance AgriTech Academy marks a pivotal moment for the UAE as it seeks to redefine its agricultural landscape. As Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed emphasized, the future of food security lies in innovation, education, and strategic collaboration. With these initiatives, the UAE is not just advancing its agricultural practices; it is setting a benchmark for the global community in sustainable agricultural development.