Abu Dhabi: Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has confirmed that the UAE, under the guidance of its leadership, is making notable progress in supporting farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs to strengthen sustainable food security. She remarked that the first Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a significant milestone towards developing an innovative and technologically advanced agricultural sector in the UAE.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Dahak's remarks came at the conclusion of the inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Organized by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the event spanned four days, from May 28 to 31 at the ADNEC Al Ain Centre.
The event witnessed extensive participation from government and private sector entities, academic and research institutions, start-ups, local farmers, and the community. It successfully showcased the latest agricultural innovations, strengthened strategic partnerships, and supported the UAE's vision for a secure and sustainable food future.
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak highlighted the continuous support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, emphasizing various programs and initiatives aimed at empowering farmers to enhance their farms, production, and competitiveness.
She also noted the importance of Al Ain as a vital agricultural hub in the UAE, supported by H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Al Ain's strong agricultural potential positions it to play a significant role in boosting the sector and supporting sustainable national food security.
During the closing ceremony, Dr. Al Dahak expressed gratitude for the success of the conference and exhibition, thanking all contributors to the national event. She emphasized the transformation of challenges into opportunities and the ability to turn the desert into a green oasis through determination and innovation.
Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the crucial role of Emirati farmers, asserting the Ministry's commitment to empowering them with knowledge and modern technologies. Looking to the future, she expressed confidence in continued partnerships, initiatives, and successes that would benefit the nation, with agriculture as a key driver of sustainable development.
The Minister affirmed the Ministry's commitment to building on the success of this inaugural event, ensuring that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition becomes a pivotal annual event contributing to the agricultural sector's development and sustainable food future.
At the event's conclusion, Dr. Al Dahak acknowledged the strategic partners and official sponsors for their significant support and contribution to its success. She thanked all sponsors, partners, farmers, and creative young people, emphasizing the sector's ability to innovate and achieve sustainable food security.
The conference provided a strategic platform for sharing knowledge and showcasing the latest technologies and innovations in agriculture. The comprehensive program featured over 75 speakers in more than 20 discussions and workshops on modern sustainable agriculture.
The event also featured participation from 22 government entities, over 40 private sector companies, and more than 20 agritech start-ups. Four national universities contributed research capabilities, with participation from several schools involving over 1,000 students in events and community workshops.