Plant the Emirates Scheme: Empowering Residents to Grow at Home and Boost Food Security

The UAE is embarking on a transformative mission to integrate sustainable agriculture into daily life through its Plant the Emirates initiative, aiming to encourage “every school and home” across the nation to embrace gardening.

The campaign, championed by the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE), focuses on motivating residents to grow key fruits, vegetables, and herbs at home.

Bridging Residents and Local Farmers

MoCCAE Undersecretary, Mohammed Saeed Sultan Al Nuaimi, shared in an interview with Khaleej Times that a series of community events will soon connect residents with local farmers.

These gatherings are designed to showcase crops that flourish in UAE’s unique climate, offering practical advice on cultivating produce in home gardens.

Residents will have the opportunity to grow a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs right in their backyards, including options like lemons, mangoes, guava, rocket leaves, green onions, and okra.

Additionally, aromatic herbs such as basil, mint, parsley, and thyme are also encouraged for home cultivation. “Many of these plants adapt well to our local climate, adding both beauty and utility to home spaces,” noted Al Nuaimi.

Expanding Green Spaces and Raising Awareness

The initiative also includes training in choosing appropriate plants, soil maintenance, and addressing factors influencing plant growth. These sessions will be part of courses offered by the upcoming National Agriculture Centre, which will guide residents and aspiring commercial farmers on creating and sustaining their own gardens or farms.

“Encouraging home-grown agriculture is a crucial step in building food awareness and appreciating the value of what we consume. This initiative also aligns with our commitment to enhance green spaces across the UAE,” Al Nuaimi added.

Challenges and Opportunities in UAE’s Agriculture Sector

Al Nuaimi outlined some of the key challenges facing the UAE’s agricultural landscape, such as a shortage of productive farms, limited access to organic produce, and workforce gaps.

In response, Plant the Emirates is set to tackle these hurdles by promoting innovation and launching targeted marketing campaigns for UAE-grown products. Plans include seasonal markets, exhibitions, and forums to boost local farm visibility, as well as a dedicated festival.

“In the UAE, we have long understood the significance of a sustainable, self-reliant food system. With our largely arid landscape and minimal rainfall, we are a testament to the power of innovation and determination in overcoming agricultural challenges,” said Al Nuaimi.

National Agriculture Centre: A Hub for Sustainable Growth

At the heart of the initiative lies the National Agriculture Centre, an entity committed to bolstering domestic food production and supporting UAE’s farmers.

Through strategic programs, the center will focus on implementing climate-smart agricultural practices, while also providing essential training and resources to empower local farmers with modern techniques.

“The center will prioritize innovative solutions aimed at improving crop yields, reducing costs, and enhancing the agricultural supply chain,” Al Nuaimi explained. By 2030, the center aims to:

• Increase productive farms by 20%
• Expand organic farming by 25%
• Achieve a 30% adoption rate of climate-smart practices
• Cut agricultural waste by 50%
• Boost local agricultural usage in hospitality by 25%
• Certify 85% of local farms with quality assurance.
• Further details on the National Agriculture Centre, including its leadership and specific
• responsibilities, are expected to be unveiled next year.

Looking Ahead: A Greener, More Sustainable UAE

Through Plant the Emirates, the UAE continues to demonstrate its dedication to sustainability and food security, envisioning a future where residents actively participate in cultivating their own food.

By empowering individuals and transforming home gardens, the initiative lays the foundation for a greener, self-sufficient UAE where local agriculture thrives.