Silal Partners With KEZAD To Launch Innovative AgTech Initiatives In Al Ain

Silal, a prominent agri-food and technology firm in Abu Dhabi, has entered into a Musataha agreement with KEZAD Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group. This partnership was announced at the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE). The collaboration aims to establish two innovative AgTech projects in Al Ain Industrial City, focusing on sustainable farming and boosting local food production.

The first project involves a partnership with Iyris, a leading sustainable agriClimate tech company. This initiative will develop an indoor farming facility covering 50,000 square metres, equivalent to 10 football fields. The focus is on cultivating premium berries, addressing the challenges of growing high-quality produce in the UAE's desert climate. This project reflects Silal's dedication to enhancing local food production and reducing reliance on imports.

The second initiative spans 100,000 square metres and utilises advanced controlled-environment agriculture technologies. It aims to grow high-value crops while significantly reducing water usage and carbon emissions. This aligns with the UAE's goals for food sustainability and environmental responsibility, further decreasing import dependencies.

Salmeen Alameri, CEO of Silal, expressed enthusiasm about these initiatives' potential impact. "These flagship initiatives underscore our commitment to advancing the UAE’s agricultural sector. By integrating cutting-edge technologies with sustainable practices, we aim to foster a thriving local food production ecosystem, enhance food security, and strengthen the country’s self-sufficiency efforts."

Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities & Free Zones at AD Ports Group, highlighted the strategic significance of this collaboration. He stated that it demonstrates their dedication to fostering innovation and creating ecosystems that support such ventures in Abu Dhabi. "This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and creating ecosystems that empower such groundbreaking ventures in Abu Dhabi In line with our wise leadership vision for food security," he said.

The partnership between Silal and KEZAD Group sets a global standard for agricultural excellence by integrating advanced technologies with sustainable practices. These initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to the UAE's efforts in achieving food security and environmental sustainability.

With inputs from WAM