Abu Dhabi: Silal, a prominent agri-food and technology company in Abu Dhabi, has inked a Musataha agreement with KEZAD Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made at the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE). This collaboration aims to launch two innovative AgTech projects in Al Ain Industrial City, focusing on sustainable farming and enhancing local food production.
According to Emirates News Agency, the first project is a partnership with Iyris, a global leader in sustainable agriClimate technology. This venture involves a 50,000 square metre indoor farming facility dedicated to cultivating premium berries. The project aims to address the challenges of growing high-quality produce in the UAE’s desert climate, reducing import dependency, and advancing agricultural technology.
The second initiative will employ advanced controlled-environment agriculture technologies across 100,000 square metres to grow high-value crops. This project focuses on significantly reducing water usage, mi
nimising carbon emissions, and maximizing year-round yields. It aligns with the UAE’s goals for food sustainability and environmental stewardship while decreasing reliance on imports.
Salmeen Alameri, CEO of Silal, emphasized the transformative potential of these projects. He stated that these initiatives reflect their commitment to advancing the UAE’s agricultural sector by integrating advanced technologies with sustainable practices, thereby fostering a thriving local food production ecosystem.
Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities and Free Zones at AD Ports Group, highlighted the strategic significance of the partnership. He remarked that this collaboration underscores their dedication to fostering innovation and creating ecosystems for groundbreaking ventures, aligning with the UAE’s vision for food security and setting a global benchmark for agricultural excellence.