More farms across the UAE will welcome visitors as part of a new agrotourism initiative. According to a top official, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) will collaborate with several farms as part of the Plant the Emirates program launched last month.
Mohammed Saeed Sultan Al Nuaimi, the MoCCAE undersecretary, stated, “This initiative aims to educate the public and students about how the UAE is increasing its food supply, showcase amazing local agricultural products, and generate support for our farming community.”
The agrotourism effort will include partnerships with local authorities and farms across all emirates.
“We are working with our partners to develop tourism programs, focusing especially on this season’s World’s Coolest Winter campaign,” Al Nuaimi explained.
This year’s domestic tourism campaign in the UAE, titled ‘World’s Coolest Winter,’ will promote ‘Green Tourism.’ Residents and visitors are invited to explore local farms and learn about agricultural products and their growth.
Green Oases in the Desert
Despite the challenges of farming in the desert, many farms have emerged throughout the country. Using innovative production methods, farmers grow everything from strawberries to wheat and saffron. Some of these farms are open to visitors.
Emirati farmer Ahmed Alhafiti shared that his first farm opened to the public became so popular that he had to rent a second one. His Wadi Difta Plantation in Fujairah, although just 200 square meters, has attracted many visitors with its cashews, pistachios, jackfruit, and spices like cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. “Since entry is free, tourism companies frequently contact me to bring their clients.”
Alhafiti noted the growing demand for educational and cultural experiences. “I rented a larger farm to grow a variety of plants from around the world, including tropical trees from Asia, Africa, and Europe. This new farm will feature roses, aromatic plants, fruits, ornamental trees, aquatic plants, and local wild plants. It should open in about two years, and many people want to visit it even before it’s ready.”
He emphasized the high demand for agrotourism, saying people are looking for peaceful experiences in nature with their families. “I encourage anyone with a farm to make it appealing for visitors.”
Khalfan Humaid Al Mutaiwai, who runs a strawberry farm in Dubai’s Hatta, has also opened his farm to the public. His first visitor was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
“Last year, my first big visitor was Sheikh Mohammed, which made my farm well-known,” he recalled. “Students and other notable figures, including Sheikhs and celebrities, have also visited.”
According to Al Mutaiwai, agrotourism benefits both the economy and cultural awareness. “It serves two purposes: it helps the country’s economy and promotes agricultural culture and development. At the same time, tourists enjoy a unique experience and leave with a positive impression of the Emirates.”
