Dubai: Food Tech Valley, a UAE-government initiative focused on building a sustainable food ecosystem, has entered into a 27-year strategic partnership with Badia Farms to develop hybrid models for year-round cultivation of premium fruits and vegetables.
The agreement, formalized between Rashed Mohammad, Chief Real Estate Officer of Wasl, and Omar Al Jundi, Founder and CEO of Badia Farms, aims to revolutionize farming practices in the region. Gulf Islamic Investments (GII) backs Badia Farms in this venture.
The partnership will employ both vertical and horizontal farming techniques in a 236,000 sq. ft. plot, utilizing innovative methods that consume 90 percent less water than traditional agriculture and are powered by clean energy.
Badia Farms’ produce will be cultivated in a pesticide-free, controlled indoor environment, ensuring fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables that meet rigorous nutritional standards.
Rashed Mohammad emphasized the importance of the collaboration by stating that, “This long-term partnership with Badia Farms is a significant step towards achieving the UAE’s ambitious food security goals. At Food Tech Valley, we are committed to fostering innovation and sustainable agricultural practices. By supporting advanced technologies and partnering with industry leaders like Badia Farms, we are creating a resilient food ecosystem that will benefit the nation for generations to come.”
Omar Al Jundi highlighted that, “We are proud to collaborate with Food Tech Valley in advancing food security. Through our expertise in hydroponic farming, we will continue to provide fresh, nutritious produce safely and sustainably.”
The collaboration is in line with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, addressing the growing demand for locally produced food while reducing reliance on imports. Food Tech Valley’s focus on cutting-edge agricultural technologies and strategic collaborations attracts key industry players to support the nation’s goals.