Al Ain: H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, has inaugurated Silal’s Innovation Oasis (iO), a research and development facility focused on agricultural technology. iO aims to bolster national efforts towards sustainable farming and enhance the UAE’s food security in alignment with the National Food Security Strategy 2051.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event also marked the inauguration of the Advance AgriTech Academy. This academy is designed to cultivate the next generation of AgriTech leaders in the UAE through specialised programmes in career guidance and practical training, in collaboration with global research institutions. The initiative seeks to equip Emirati talent with the skills necessary to drive innovation in food and agriculture.
Additionally, a cooperation agreement was signed between Silal and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) to enhance collaboration in agricultural research and innovation. This includes offering five scholarships aimed at empowering students from UAEU’s College of Agriculture in agricultural sustainability and food security, supporting academic excellence and national talent.
H.H. Sheikh Hazza affirmed that investment in agritech research is a national strategic priority to advance sustainable local production, harness advanced technologies, support innovation, and build a knowledge-driven economy. He emphasized the importance of strengthening food supply chains and addressing future food security challenges regionally and globally.
During the ceremony, Sheikh Hazza was accompanied by notable figures including Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, along with several key leaders from Silal and UAEU.
Salmeen Obaid Alameri, CEO of Silal, stated that Innovation Oasis is redefining the future of agri-food in the UAE by leveraging advanced technologies and fostering strategic partnerships. The facility focuses on research, innovation, and knowledge transfer to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the food system, positioning the UAE at the forefront of global agritech solutions.
Spanning over 300,000 square metres, iO is designed to foster collaboration among researchers, industry leaders, startups, and academics. It serves as an incubator for agritech innovations, focusing on climate-resilient farming, optimised controlled environment agriculture, and resource-efficient food production.
The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, growth chambers, phenotyping and experimental facilities, including greenhouses and open-field research plots. It will facilitate the development and testing of various agritech solutions, such as climate-resilient farming techniques, water-food-energy solutions, IoT-enabled precision agriculture, and AI-driven food systems to enhance farm management and supply chain efficiency while minimising food waste.