Emirates Flight Catering Enhances UAE Food Security with Bustanica Acquisition

Emirates Flight Catering, a leading name in the global catering industry, has recently taken a significant step by fully acquiring Emirates Bustanica, previously known as Emirates Crop One. This move not only rebrands the entity under the name Bustanica but also marks it as a fully UAE-owned company. This strategic acquisition aligns with the UAE's ambitious vision to bolster its food and water security and enhance its agricultural capabilities.

Strategically located near Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, Bustanica boasts a sprawling 330,000sqft facility. It stands as the world's largest indoor vertical farm, with an impressive capacity to produce over 1 million kilograms of high-quality leafy greens annually. This equates to an output of 3 tonnes daily, all while utilizing 95 percent less water than traditional farming methods.

The integration of Bustanica under Emirates Flight Catering's umbrella enables the company to harness local expertise and the latest technological advancements. This synergy is aimed at meeting the increasing market demand for fresh produce. Bustanica's offerings, which include a variety of lettuce, spinach, parsley, and kale, are now available across major UAE retailers such as Spinney's, Waitrose, Carrefour, and Choithrams.

Since its inception in July 2022, Bustanica has quickly become a staple in UAE households. Its range of leafy greens, herbs, and microgreens are designed to be consumed directly from the box without the need for washing, as even tap water can potentially contaminate the produce. Grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides, Bustanica's produce is celebrated for being 100 percent clean, fresh, and nutrient-rich.

Customers flying with Emirates and other airlines also have the pleasure of enjoying these farm-fresh ingredients in their salads and meals. This initiative not only enhances the in-flight dining experience but also supports the sustainability goals by reducing water usage significantly compared to conventional farming practices.

The full acquisition of Emirates Bustanica by Emirates Flight Catering underscores a significant milestone in the UAE's journey towards self-sufficiency in food production. It reflects a forward-thinking approach to agriculture that leverages innovative technologies to produce sustainable and high-quality food. As Bustanica continues to expand its product range and reach within the UAE market, it plays a crucial role in supporting the country's vision for a secure and sustainable future.

With inputs from WAM