ADFD And ICBA Sign Partnership To Establish Soil Museums In The UAE

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) have joined forces to create a comprehensive guide for soil museums in the Middle East and North Africa. This initiative, announced during the fourth "Make it in the Emirates" event, highlights the UAE's dedication to innovation and sustainability.

With ADFD's financial backing, this guide will evolve into a practical training programme. It will include technical workshops and scientific mentoring. ICBA will spearhead the technical aspects, leveraging its expertise in sustainable agriculture and its success with the Emirates Soil Museum.

The guide aims to promote soil conservation and responsible resource management in arid regions. It will serve as a blueprint for institutions across the region. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, stated, "This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and knowledge partnerships. We believe science-backed solutions like this museum guide can shape regional resilience and inform effective policies for generations to come."

Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director-General of ICBA, expressed pride in continuing their partnership with ADFD. She said, "We are proud to continue our partnership with ADFD to take the Emirates Soil Museum’s impact even further. This guide will be a scalable tool for institutions across the region—advancing environmental awareness, building scientific capacity, and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. The Emirates Soil Museum was made in the UAE, and today it begins its journey to the world."

An international scientific symposium is planned for 5th December 2025 to coincide with World Soil Day. Over 200 experts, researchers, and decision-makers from around the globe will gather to discuss soil, salinity, and climate change challenges in arid areas.

The Emirates Soil Museum was established in December 2016 with support from ADFD. Located at ICBA’s headquarters in Dubai, it is the first specialised soil museum in the region. The museum educates visitors about soil's role in agriculture and food security while showcasing diverse soil types found in the UAE.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

This collaboration between ADFD and ICBA underscores their shared dedication to supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It aligns with "UAE Vision 2030" and the "UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy," positioning the UAE as a regional leader in environmental knowledge and scientific innovation.

Since its inception, over 13,500 visitors from various sectors have visited the museum. It has become a reference centre for environmental awareness and non-traditional education.

With inputs from WAM