Al ain: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has launched the 'Empowering Women Farmers' initiative. This initiative aims to enhance the contributions of Emirati women to sustainable national food security, aligning with the 'Year of Family' celebrations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative was introduced at the First Emirati Women Farmers Forum during the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026, which recently concluded in Al Ain. H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak emphasized the importance of agriculture as a keystone of the UAE's economy and recognized the advanced opportunities available in the sector due to scientific and technological advancements.
Sheikha Fatima highlighted the historic role of agriculture in the national heritage and the fundamental role Emirati women play in preserving this legacy. By equipping women with the necessary resources and skills, the initiative aims to transform agriculture into a thriving economic activity and cultural practice. The initiative seeks to position the UAE as a leader in the agricultural and economic empowerment of women.
The 'Empowering Women Farmers' initiative aligns with the UAE's strategic vision to transform women from contributors in agricultural production to pioneers and key drivers of innovation in the sector. It provides tools and platforms for women to engage with decision-makers, address challenges, and unlock opportunities to convert women-led farms into successful economic models.
The initiative also focuses on integrating modern technologies and climate-smart solutions, aiming to position Emirati women farmers as innovators capable of building their own brands. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated that the initiative reflects the capacity of Emirati women to support the agricultural sector and to pass on agricultural knowledge to future generations.
Dr. Al Dahak noted the dynamic nature of the UAE's agricultural sector and the opportunities it presents for women's entrepreneurship. She emphasized the initiative's role in transforming traditional farms into sustainable enterprises that enhance the competitiveness of national products. The initiative offers a comprehensive support ecosystem, beginning with field schools to strengthen practical knowledge, marketing support, and the inclusion of young Emirati females in decision-making through the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture.
The launch of this initiative reflects the UAE's strategic vision of positioning women farmers as key partners in the innovation and food security ecosystem. It aims to provide a platform that combines recognition with practical empowerment, enhancing the contribution of Emirati women to the green economy and sustainable development.
The initiative aligns with global trends led by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, particularly the designation of 2026 as the 'International Year of the Woman Farmer'. The Emirati Women Farmers Forum, attended by Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan and Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, along with over 200 Emirati women farmers and entrepreneurs, featured discussions on opportunities and challenges in the sector.
The forum outlined a roadmap to deepen women's participation in agricultural development and emphasized collaboration between government entities and women farmers. This collaboration aims to ensure sustainable production and drive agricultural innovation, cementing the role of Emirati women as leaders in the country's agricultural transformation.
Participants expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her unwavering support and commitment to women's empowerment. They pledged to continue contributing and innovating in the agricultural sector, strengthening the national food security system for future generations.