Farming Tech Now Required
The sixth edition of the King Hamad Award for Agricultural Development will introduce a major shift in eligibility criteria, with the use of agricultural technology now made mandatory for all participants.
H.E. Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development, announced the changes as part of broader efforts to modernise the Kingdom's agricultural sector and ensure that the award remains aligned with global best practices.
Updated criteria
In previous editions, technology use gave participants an edge through bonus points. Starting this cycle, however, integration of agri-tech solutions is no longer optional.
Agricultural technology adoption has been shown to increase productivity by over 20% in small-scale farms across the GCC, according to UN FAO research. These updates aim to make the award more rigorous and forward-focused.
The move reflects a growing consensus that sustainability and productivity must be driven by innovation and smart farming tools. H.E. Shaikha Maram confirmed that evaluation criteria are being revised, and new judging panels are being set up to enhance standards and review past cycles.
Support and inclusion
H.E. Shaikha Maram reaffirmed the initiative's commitment to supporting all individuals and organisations working toward agricultural advancement. While transformation takes time, she encouraged widespread participation, noting that the award welcomes contributions from across the spectrum of the agricultural ecosystem.
SMEs recognised
H.E. Shaikha Maram also highlighted the increasing role of small and medium-sized agricultural companies in the Kingdom. These businesses, which now receive recognition under separate categories for production and agricultural services, are becoming vital to ensuring the sector's long-term sustainability.
The changes are expected to raise the bar for excellence and broaden the award's impact on the Kingdom's food security and innovation landscape.
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