An Abu Dhabi-based startup, Manhat, is working on launching floating farms in the UAE, aiming to turn coastal areas into productive agricultural zones. Dr. Saeed Alhassan Alkhazraji, the founder, shared how their system uses open water surfaces for growing crops.
“There are no floating farms in the UAE or the Gulf region yet, but countries like Bangladesh have successfully used similar systems,” Dr. Saeed said. He explained how Bangladesh uses materials like water hyacinths, straw, and bamboo to create stable, fertile platforms for farming, especially in flood-prone areas.
Manhat plans to take floating farms to the next level with its patented natural water distillation technology. Unlike traditional floating farms that depend on external water sources, Manhat’s farms produce irrigation water on-site.
Their electricity-free process mimics the natural water cycle by capturing evaporated water from open surfaces and turning it into freshwater. This innovation is sustainable, reduces reliance on conventional water sources, and eliminates carbon emissions.
Challenges and Solutions
Manhat, now five years old, is seeking investments and government support to launch pilot projects. Funding and regulatory approvals are the biggest hurdles, but the startup is working to overcome these by planning an inland pilot project. This trial will use an artificial pool with wastewater to prove the system’s economic and environmental viability.
“This will serve as a proof of concept to attract stakeholders and streamline regulatory processes,” Dr. Saeed explained.
The company has already tested its devices in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports and other inland projects. Their technology has successfully converted wastewater into freshwater suitable for irrigation without using electricity, demonstrating a zero-carbon footprint process.
Global Expansion and Recognition
Manhat’s goal is to showcase its floating farms in the UAE and expand to other countries where its technology is patented. “Our vision is to revolutionize water and food security with scalable, sustainable solutions,” said Dr. Saeed.
The company recently received the 2025 Japan International Exposition Association Best Practices Award at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai. “We’re honored to be the only UAE startup among 20 global projects to win this recognition,” he added.
Manhat continues to optimize its technology through trials and aims to launch its floating farms globally in the near future, addressing urgent challenges in water and food security.
