Abu Dhabi is aiming to enhance food security in the UAE by investing in quinoa farms across the nation. In partnership with Abu Dhabi’s investment and holding company ADQ, Silal and the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) have launched the UAE’s first commercial quinoa trials.
The initiative aims to strengthen food security by introducing quinoa as a nutritious alternative food source. Supported by ADQ’s AED 100 million (USD 27.2 million) research and development fund, which is part of the ADQ Growth Lab, the Quinoa Value Chain Development project focuses on developing and testing seed cultivation and post-harvest processing techniques for two new quinoa varieties.
The project is designed to diversify food sources, reduce reliance on traditional crops, and promote agricultural resilience, while also creating economic opportunities for farmers and relevant stakeholders. Silal, in collaboration with ICBA, has conducted trials to assess the viability of quinoa cultivation in Abu Dhabi’s climate and soil conditions. Initial results indicate that the two new varieties demonstrate strong potential in yield and nutritional quality.
The next phase will concentrate on training farmers in innovative quinoa production practices, conducting commercial-scale trials, and establishing advanced processing facilities in Abu Dhabi. Mansour AlMulla, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer at ADQ, emphasised Silal’s role in fostering long-term food security through innovative agritech solutions, aligning with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy.
Salmeen Al Ameri, CEO of Silal, expressed enthusiasm about leading innovation in agritech, while Dr Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in transforming agricultural practices. ADQ’s R&D fund, launched in 2022, underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability across the UAE’s economy.
