The UAE initiative aims to reinforce the country’s leadership as a model for climate-adaptive agriculture.
During the second edition of the UAE Conference and Exhibition in Al Ain, the official launch of the “National Agricultural Initiative for the Adoption of Climate-Smart Crops in the United Arab Emirates” was announced. The strategic project is led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture.
The initiative aims to strengthen the UAE’s position as a leading global model in climate-adaptive agriculture by turning scientific research into practical field solutions that support sustainable water resource management and enhance national food security, in line with the goals of the National Food Security Strategy 2051.
Through its strategic pillars, the initiative aims to diversify the national food basket, reduce reliance on imports, and strengthen self-sufficiency in food and feed production, helping to build a resilient and sustainable local production system.
Features of future agricultural production
UAE launches national initiative for climate-smart crops to boost food security
At the heart of the initiative is a focus on four strategic crops that are well-suited to the UAE’s environment. Leading the list are millet — including foxtail and pearl millet — and sorghum, which provide practical solutions to water scarcity challenges.
These crops require up to 50 per cent less water than conventional grains while maintaining high productivity in extreme temperatures exceeding 45°C.
Beyond their environmental resilience, these grains also offer strong nutritional value. They are rich in fibre and minerals and are naturally gluten-free, making them well-suited to the needs of modern consumers seeking healthy and sustainable food choices.
As part of efforts to integrate these crops into the Emirati diet, a specialised “Emirati Recipe Book” will be developed, featuring climate-smart crops as key ingredients. The guide will encourage households and food enthusiasts to incorporate these products into local cuisine, blending heritage with innovation and sustainability.
Innovative solutions
In the livestock sector, Blue Panicum grass stands out as an innovative solution for producing high-quality fodder while using minimal freshwater. The crop is highly tolerant to salinity and drought, allowing it to be grown in saline-affected soils and irrigated with non-conventional water sources.
This integrated approach aims to maintain a careful balance between agricultural growth and groundwater conservation.
A transformational shift in national agricultural production philosophy
Commenting on the initiative, Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said its launch marks a fundamental shift in the philosophy of national agricultural production, placing food security at the centre of the country’s strategic priorities.
“We are laying the foundation for a new phase of food sovereignty built on knowledge and innovation. Through this initiative, we aim to adopt climate-smart solutions specifically designed for the UAE’s unique environmental conditions, enabling the development of a resilient food system capable of addressing global challenges and meeting the aspirations of future generations for a secure and sustainable future,” she said.
She added that investing in climate-smart crops is the most sustainable and practical approach given the UAE’s desert climate and limited water resources.
“This initiative strengthens agricultural productivity, supports our farmers and agricultural workforce, and promotes innovative practices that deliver maximum economic returns with minimal environmental impact. We firmly believe that investing in agricultural innovation is an investment in the nation’s sustainability. By embedding these crops into UAE soils, we are creating a global benchmark for using technology and scientific research to achieve food security under challenging climate conditions,” she said.
An advanced model of integration between government vision and specialised research expertise
Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director General of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture, praised the launch of the national initiative, describing it as a leading example of integration between government vision, specialised research expertise, and practical implementation.
