Inaugural Hatta Farming Festival To Showcase Sustainable Agriculture Starting Friday
The Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta has unveiled plans for the first-ever Hatta Farming Festival, scheduled to take place from February 23 to 27 at Hatta Hall. This initiative, in collaboration with the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Dubai Municipality, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and the Hatta Traders Council, aims to bolster Hatta's economic and tourism sectors, support local traders and entrepreneurs, and highlight the region's agricultural heritage and output.
Open to the public without charge, the Hatta Farming Festival promises a range of activities from 10am to 10pm daily. It offers an engaging environment for the community to celebrate sustainable agricultural practices and showcases local farmers' produce and activities. The festival's agenda includes over 25 workshops focusing on sustainability, food security, and agricultural education, alongside tours to heritage sites and an assortment of local culinary offerings from Hatta businesses.
Entertainment and Educational Workshops
The festival, welcoming visitors of all ages, is packed with entertainment including performances by Dubai's beloved characters, Modesh and Dana. Educational workshops cover various sustainability topics, including water purification and reducing food waste. Furthermore, there are activities specifically designed for children, such as nature-themed drawing and storytelling sessions, fostering early interest in agriculture.
Twenty local farmers and livestock farms (Ezba) will present a wide variety of products, such as vegetables, fruits, eggs, jam, and ghee, showcasing the richness of Hatta's agricultural sector. Visitors also have the chance to explore Hatta Heritage Village, featuring the restored Hatta Falaj Al Sharia, which illustrates ancient agricultural practices.
Supporting Local Agriculture
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, emphasized the importance of Hatta's agricultural development within the broader context of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The festival serves as a platform to empower the local agricultural industry and educate the public on sustainable farming practices, supporting local businesses in the process.
In addition to public workshops, the festival offers a series of sessions for local farmers, led by top farming companies in the UAE. These sessions aim to strengthen Dubai's agricultural sector by providing farmers with essential insights and resources.
The festival also encourages healthy competition and community spirit through contests with prizes ranging from Dh5000 to Dh20,000, in categories such as 'Best Productive Farm' and 'Best Productive Barn'. Adding to the festival's attractions is a unique animal auction, where attendees can purchase superior breeds of Hatta goat.
The Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development is contributing to the event by hosting a workshop on its services and benefits, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and encouraging the launch of new projects within the agricultural sector.
Through such diverse and comprehensive programming, the Hatta Farming Festival not only celebrates the region's agricultural heritage but also looks towards the future of sustainable farming and economic development in Hatta.
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