Abu dhabi: Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation announced the winners’ names in its 18th session, during a press conference held at the Zayed for Good Foundation in Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by officials, experts, and researchers in the fields of agriculture and agricultural innovation, as well as representatives of local and international media.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Abdelouahhab Alboukhari Zaid, the Award’s Secretary-General affiliated with Erth Zayed Philanthropies Foundation, UAE Presidential Court, reaffirmed the Award’s ongoing commitment to establish its position as a leading international platform for supporting scientific research and agricultural innovation, as well as advancing sustainable development in the date palm sector. This is supported by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, among other prominent figures.
In his speech, the Award’s Secretary-General highlighted the Award’s journey and achievements, announced the winners’ names of the 18th session, and presented technical details of the 8th International Date Palm Conference. The Award over the years has become a scientific and developmental platform that unites experts, researchers, date growers, and innovators, contributing to the development of date palm cultivation, production, and the enhancement of associated value chains.
The winners of the 18th session were selected based on internationally accredited criteria and mechanisms, as confirmed by the Award’s Scientific Committee and approved by Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. The winners include innovative projects and figures from various categories such as Distinguished Innovative Studies, Pioneering Development Projects, and Influential Figures in the field of Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation.
The Secretary-General of Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation noted the Award’s significant achievements since its inception, attributing its leading global position to the wise directives of the UAE’s leadership. The winners represent added scientific and developmental value, contributing to global advancements in the date palm sector and agricultural innovation.
Dr. Ahmad Ali Al-Raeesi announced the participation of 218 scientists and researchers in the 8th International Date Palm Conference, which will include five main scientific sessions. The Conference will feature a high-level Ministerial session and will be held at the Emirates Palace hotel in Abu Dhabi from April 28 to May 1, 2026.
Dr. Helal Humaid Saed Al Kaabi affirmed the Award’s role as a leading global platform for supporting agricultural innovation and sustainable development, highlighting the participation of 169 candidates from 30 countries in the 18th session. The Award continues to contribute to the advancement of the date palm sector, supporting scientific research and empowering date growers, following the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.