Sharjah: Sharjah has overcome significant environmental challenges to launch a pioneering farming project in Mleiha. Khalifa Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock shared the success story during the inaugural Regional Data & Community Development Forum, organized by the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD).
In the presentation, titled “Mleiha Farms: Food Security Sustained through Data”, Al Tunaiji emphasized that data-driven approaches are essential for the UAE’s goal of achieving complete food security.
“Despite skepticism around the project’s feasibility due to the region’s climate, we relied on data to guide us through to success, guided by the vision and scientific and academic expertise of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah,” the chairman stated.
Al Tunaiji elaborated on how data was used to identify resilient wheat varieties from Saudi Arabia that are suited to the local environment. A sophisticated data platform was implemented to monitor water usage, crop yields, and irrigation needs, which allowed Mleiha Farms to conserve 40 percent of its water resources.
The use of advanced technology has transformed Mleiha Farms into a model of smart farming. A central control system, equipped with sensors, satellite thermal imaging, and AI-driven analysis, provides real-time data on both crops and livestock.
“Without data, we would have been trapped in a cycle of trial and error. With it, we could predict outcomes and avoid costly mistakes,” Al Tunaiji explained.
Mleiha Farms has also applied data-driven techniques to livestock management. Smart sensors placed on cattle monitor their health, including temperature, heart rate, and reproductive cycles, which has led to improved milk production. In addition, data-guided greenhouse operations have boosted crop yields by 20-30 percent, reduced water consumption by 50 percent, and cut operational costs by 40 percent, significantly contributing to environmental sustainability.