UAE: New product line of local organic fruits, vegetables launched in Sharjah

Khaleej Times

20-02-2025

A product line featuring organic fruits and vegetables has been launched in Sharjah.
The organic produce from "Gheras", a division of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment ("EKTIFA", are being grown in the greenhouses of Al Dhaid, where it is ensured they are free from genetic modification.
Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch ceremony of the product line and also visited the greenhouses.
As part of the initial phase, there are four greenhouses covering three hectares, each spanning 4,800 square meters, alongside an agricultural field of 6,800 square metres.
Together, they are expected to produce around 250 tonnes of organic fruits and vegetables annually.
The Sharjah Ruler also explored a variety of organic vegetables, including eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, carrots, onions, beets, beans, and okra. He also took note of the organic blueberries, corn, kale, and broccoli available in the garden.
The second phase will include expansion greenhouses to cover an area of 32 hectares. It will feature nurseries and open agricultural spaces, as well as a packaging facility, a honey production plant, and student accommodations. Additionally, it will include a state-of-the-art irrigation system that utilises smart technologies.
Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, the Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of EKTIFA, highlighted that the cornerstone of the greenhouses is the cultivation of "heirloom seeds," which have been preserved in families for over 50 years, dating back to before World War II. These seeds boast high genetic diversity and are open-pollinated.
He noted that the seeds can be collected from the resulting fruits and replanted the following year, maintaining the plant's original characteristics. This unique feature enhances their ability to adapt to various environmental conditions, resulting in plants that offer a rich and distinctive flavor.
He mentioned that the greenhouse project stands as the first initiative in the region aimed at cultivating organic blueberries, a crop that is highly beneficial and increasingly sought after. He pointed out that the global market for blueberries is valued at $2.5 billion, with the UAE's import value reaching $19.5 million. These blueberries will later be incorporated into fruit yogurt products at the Mleiha Dairy Farm.