ICBA And Al Rostamani Group Begin Construction Of New Training Centre And Agricultural Research Facilities

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) and Al Rostamani Group have begun constructing new training and research facilities at ICBA's headquarters. This initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier, aiming to boost agricultural capacity development. The project is fully funded by Al Rostamani Group and aligns with the UAE's long-term goals in agriculture.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, highlighted the UAE's commitment to sustainable food security. She stated, "The UAE seeks to support all efforts aimed at enhancing sustainable food security at the national and global levels. We are working to transform traditional agricultural systems into sustainable, climate- and environmentally smart systems that are scalable and resilient."

This collaboration involves key figures such as Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of Al Rostamani Group; Hassan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Vice-Chairman; and Dr. Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA. The foundation stone ceremony marked the start of this ambitious project designed to provide modern infrastructure for training and research opportunities.

The new facilities will include a training center accommodating up to 300 participants with multipurpose halls for workshops and seminars. Additionally, advanced laboratories for plant tissue culture and an integrated agri-aquaculture system will be established. These enhancements aim to expand ICBA’s scientific capabilities.

Dr. Tarifa Al Zaabi expressed gratitude for the partnership with Al Rostamani Group and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. She said, "We are deeply honored to join forces with Al Rostamani Group, with the support of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, in this pivotal initiative that will significantly enhance ICBA’s training and research capabilities."

The project aims to deliver specialised training programmes locally and internationally, promoting innovation in sustainable agriculture. It aligns with both national and international agendas, reinforcing ICBA’s role as a leader in agricultural research.

Commitment to Food Security

Marwan Al Rostamani emphasised their commitment by stating, "We are proud and honored to work with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and in partnership with ICBA on one of the UAE’s strategic goals towards environmental and agriculture sustainability." He added that their funding initiative reflects their belief in impactful projects.

This partnership positions ICBA as a global hub for agricultural training focusing on water-efficient agriculture, climate-smart technologies, and sustainable agribusiness practices. It supports UAE’s national goals for food security.

The collaboration between ICBA, Al Rostamani Group, and the Ministry aims to create a model for cooperation in achieving sustainability goals. By leveraging research and technology advancements, they seek to equip future generations with tools needed for addressing climate change challenges.

With inputs from WAM