Latest news with #KhalifaMusabahAlTunaiji
Sharjah 24
19-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
IKTIFA signs cooperation agreement with Emirates Macaroni Factory
Under the agreement, the factory will manufacture all types of "Saba' Sanabel" organic pasta, made from wheat grown at the Maliha farm, which boasts a protein content of 19.3%, the highest globally. Signing ceremony The agreement was signed during the "Make it in the Emirates 2025" exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, CEO of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment "IKTIFA," and Ahmed Saeed Belyouha, Chairman of the Emirates Macaroni Factory, represented the parties involved. Event significance This milestone agreement took place at the UAE's leading industrial event, where the Department of Agriculture and Livestock and its investment arm, "IKTIFA," showcased projects from Sharjah's sustainable organic food security system, along with a variety of organic products. Manufacturing practices According to the agreement, the Emirates Macaroni Factory will produce "Saba' Sanabel" organic pasta using world-class sustainable and eco-friendly practices. This collaboration ensures the continuous availability of high-quality, healthy products from "IKTIFA" and supports the expansion of the "Saba' Sanabel" product range across the UAE. Strategic alignment The initiative aligns with Sharjah's sustainable organic food security framework and reinforces the objectives of the "Make it in the Emirates" initiative by boosting local production and reducing reliance on food imports in critical sectors. Commitment to quality Dr Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji stated, 'In line with the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, IKTIFA is committed to strengthening its partnerships with the private sector. This effort supports our goals of expanding our diverse range of organic and safe products for all segments of society.' He emphasized the commitment to delivering clean, safe food that enhances the overall quality of life in the UAE. Focus on local industries Khalifa Al Tunaiji further emphasized that the increasing focus on local industries—particularly the organic sector—marks a significant milestone in the development and growth of national capabilities. He noted, 'It fosters an environment that promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors while accelerating the integration of advanced technologies. This transformation is evident at the 'Make it in the Emirates' exhibition, which serves as a pivotal platform for driving industrial progress and positioning the UAE as a global leader in safe, organic food production.' Role of IKTIFA Khalifa Al Tunaiji highlighted that IKTIFA plays a crucial role in providing safe, organic food to all segments of society. He pointed out that the agreement with the Emirates Macaroni Factory to produce "Saba' Sanabel" organic pasta was made due to the factory's status as one of the leading national institutions. With nearly fifty years of experience, it is the first factory in the UAE and the region to specialize in pasta and its derivatives. Future of organic food production Ahmed Saeed Belyouha, Chairman of the Emirates Macaroni Factory, stated that the partnership with IKTIFA marks an important milestone towards a more sustainable future for organic food production in the UAE. Since its establishment, the Emirates Macaroni Factory has remained committed to delivering high-quality products that meet international standards and reflect the evolving aspirations of consumers in the UAE and the wider region. 'This agreement allows us to further advance our path of growth and innovation, a journey that has lasted over fifty years in the pasta and its derivatives industry,' he added.
Gulf Today
19-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Sultan has 'created a unique scientific model that uplifts humanity'
On March 18, His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially launched the third phase of the "Rhetorical Interpretation" Encyclopaedia and the Warsh Narration Encyclopaedia, the second volume focused on individualised reading methods. The launch occurred during the annual graduation ceremony of the fifth batch of 329 reciters from the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy, held at the University City Hall. His Highness signs the first edition of the third phase His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah signed the first edition of the third phase of the "Rhetorical Interpretation" encyclopaedia, which consists of 22 volumes and covers eight chapters of the Holy Quran. This brings the total number of volumes in the encyclopaedia across all three phases to 47, with over 110,000 rhetorical titles. Sheikh Sultan honours a youngster. Additionally, His Highness signed the Warsh encyclopaedia, the second edition focused on methods for individualised readings, comprising 18 volumes. The appendices also feature the Qalun and Warsh narration tree diagrams, including "A Visual Summary of the Principles of the Narration," a Mushaf illustrating the narration, and a separate Mushaf of Warsh with Eastern diacritics. Recitation and remarks by Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji The ceremony began with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by student reciter Hazza Bin Abdullah Al Balushi, who recited with the narration of Shu'bah on the authority of Asim. Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy, then delivered a speech expressing his heartfelt gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of the Holy Quran and its people, as well as the Holy Quran Academy and its scientific and research initiatives. He emphasised the Academy's global mission to enhance Sharjah's role and international standing in serving the Holy Quran, its sciences, its distinguished scholars, and in promoting and preserving Quranic heritage. Sharjah Holy Quran Academy's vision and strategy Al Tunaiji added, "Since its inception, the Holy Quran Academy has made remarkable strides and continues to excel in achieving its goals through its new 2024-2026 strategy. This strategy reflects the Academy's vision of global leadership in preserving the Holy Quran and advancing knowledge of its heritage and studies. It embodies the mission of strengthening Sharjah's role and international standing in serving the Holy Quran, its sciences, and its scholars. Additionally, the Academy utilises modern technologies to enhance scientific research, develop Quranic recitation centres, and promote and preserve Quranic heritage." Praise for His Highness's support of the Academy's initiatives Al Tunaiji praised His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of the Academy's projects, stating, "The journey of excellence and leadership, which has seen the Sharjah Electronic Recitation Centre emerge as a global leader, reaching 172 countries worldwide, would not have been possible without the vision and support of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. He has created a unique scientific model that uplifts humanity. Sheikh Sultan with prominent attendees on stage. The number of Quranic licences awarded to students who passed the Sanad test has reached 1,518, including both individual and combined readings. Additionally, 91 Quranic licensees from the Academy have begun teaching others, while a total of 135 students have received the Academy's Sanad, benefiting from the blessed efforts of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah." Academy's achievements and advancements in Quranic studies The President of the Holy Quran Academy indicated that the number of students registered in the Sharjah International Electronic Recitation Centre has reached 938, and the number of recitations has reached 1,742 by March 2025, taught by a select group of qualified reciters. Ongoing research and publications by the Academy Al Tunaiji discussed the Academy's ongoing scientific studies and research, stating, "The Academy continues to advance its scientific and research initiatives in the field of the Holy Quran and its sciences. It has successfully published the third phase of the 22-volume Encyclopaedia of Rhetorical Interpretation, which includes eight parts, with contributions from 40 scholars. In total, 22 Quranic parts have been completed, bringing the total number of volumes to 47." Highlighting the Academy's published works The President of the Holy Quran Academy highlighted that the Academy has published eight scientific works designed to provide academic resources that support the study of Quranic recitations. These publications focus on linguistic and rhetorical aspects, aiming to assist graduate students, researchers, reciters, and scholars in their studies. Al Tunaiji concluded his speech by emphasising that the Academy has strengthened its scientific and cultural position by promoting Arab and Islamic values. It has welcomed over 8,437 visits from dignitaries, Quran specialists, and university students through regional and international delegations. Additionally, the Academy's scientific seminars and summer programme have attracted 3,382 participants, including 1,082 in-person attendees and 2,300 remote participants. These courses covered topics such as manuscript restoration, Tajweed, Quranic recitations and script, and vocal performance enhancement. The Academy continues to play a vital role in Sharjah's efforts to develop human capital and preserve Arab and Islamic identity. A Quranic licence awarded to an Indonesian student During the event, His Highness also listened to a recitation by Ahmed Fawzi, a student from Indonesia who completed the Quran under the supervision of reciter Mustafa Khader. His Highness then signed the certificate granting Fawzi a Quranic licence from Mustafa Khader, symbolising the Academy's mission to spread Arab and Islamic identity globally. Honouring supporters and sponsors of the Academy His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the sponsors and supporters of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy by presenting them with certificates of appreciation and shields. He also took a commemorative photo with the scholars and individuals who had completed the two encyclopedias. Graduation of the fifth batch of students At the conclusion of the ceremony, the fifth batch of graduates from the Academy received their Quranic licences, with a chain of transmission traceable back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The "Rhetorical Interpretation" Encyclopaedia and its contributions The Encyclopaedia of Rhetorical Interpretation is the first of its kind to comprehensively address the rhetoric of the Holy Quran, utilising a unique methodology. It explores the semantic distinctions between Quranic terms and draws on primary interpretive, linguistic, and rhetorical sources. Focus of the "Methods of Separating Readings" Encyclopaedia The Encyclopaedia of Methods of Separating Readings is a specialised project focused on the science of Quranic recitations, consisting of three main branches. The first includes a single-narrator method, detailed across more than 10 volumes. Dignitaries at the event. It features a Qur'an with concise marginal notes explaining the narration, a colour-coded Quran illustrating the rules of the narration, and a special appendix displaying the narration family trees. The encyclopaedia provides a comprehensive list of all schools of recitation, allowing reciters and their students to choose from a range of options without favouring any particular school, ensuring its applicability across the entire nation. The Academy's initiatives and global impact The Academy, through its three pillars — the Sharjah Global Electronic Recitation Centre, scientific research, and Quranic museums — has launched several initiatives that provide valuable resources for researchers, graduate students, Quran recitation scholars, and others interested in the field. These efforts aim to strengthen the Academy's role in advancing Quran recitation programmes, fostering national expertise, promoting scientific research, and establishing both local and international partnerships that support the Holy Quran. Dignitaries and attendees at the ceremony Alongside His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, the ceremony was attended by Sheikh Salem Bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy; Ali Ahmed Bu Ghazin, Chairman of the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority; Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mail, Chairman of the Social Services Department; Jamal Al Turaifi, President of Al Qasimia University; Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Head of the Protocol and Hospitality Department; Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council; Abdullah Bin Yarouf Al Sabousi, Chairman of the Department of Islamic Affairs; and a number of senior officials, dignitaries, and Quran reciters.
Sharjah 24
18-03-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Ruler launches 3rd Phase of "Rhetorical Interpretation"
His Highness signs the first edition of the third phase His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah signed the first edition of the third phase of the "Rhetorical Interpretation" encyclopedia, which consists of 22 volumes and covers eight chapters of the Holy Quran. This brings the total number of volumes in the encyclopedia across all three phases to 47, with over 110,000 rhetorical titles. Additionally, His Highness signed the Warsh encyclopedia, the second edition focused on methods for individualized readings, comprising 18 volumes. The appendices also feature the Qalun and Warsh narration tree diagrams, including "A Visual Summary of the Principles of the Narration," a Mushaf illustrating the narration, and a separate Mushaf of Warsh with Eastern diacritics. Recitation and remarks by Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji The ceremony began with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by student reciter Hazza bin Abdullah Al Balushi, who recited with the narration of Shu'bah on the authority of Asim. Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy, then delivered a speech expressing his heartfelt gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of the Holy Quran and its people, as well as the Holy Quran Academy and its scientific and research initiatives. He emphasised the Academy's global mission to enhance Sharjah's role and international standing in serving the Holy Quran, its sciences, its distinguished scholars, and in promoting and preserving Quranic heritage. Sharjah Holy Quran Academy's vision and strategy Al Tunaiji added, "Since its inception, the Holy Quran Academy has made remarkable strides and continues to excel in achieving its goals through its new 2024-2026 strategy. This strategy reflects the Academy's vision of global leadership in preserving the Holy Quran and advancing knowledge of its heritage and studies. It embodies the mission of strengthening Sharjah's role and international standing in serving the Holy Quran, its sciences, and its scholars. Additionally, the Academy utilises modern technologies to enhance scientific research, develop Quranic recitation centres, and promote and preserve Quranic heritage." Praise for His Highness's support of the Academy's initiatives Al Tunaiji praised His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his unwavering support of the Academy's projects, stating, "The journey of excellence and leadership, which has seen the Sharjah Electronic Recitation Centre emerge as a global leader, reaching 172 countries worldwide, would not have been possible without the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. He has created a unique scientific model that uplifts humanity. The number of Quranic licenses awarded to students who passed the Sanad test has reached 1,518, including both individual and combined readings. Additionally, 91 Quranic licensees from the Academy have begun teaching others, while a total of 135 students have received the Academy's Sanad, benefiting from the blessed efforts of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah." Academy's achievements and advancements in Quranic studies The President of the Holy Quran Academy indicated that the number of students registered in the Sharjah International Electronic Recitation Centre has reached 938, and the number of recitations has reached 1,742 by March 2025, taught by a select group of qualified reciters. Ongoing research and publications by the Academy Al-Taniji discussed the Academy's ongoing scientific studies and research, stating, "The Academy continues to advance its scientific and research initiatives in the field of the Holy Quran and its sciences. It has successfully published the third phase of the 22-volume Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation, which includes eight parts, with contributions from 40 scholars. In total, 22 Quranic parts have been completed, bringing the total number of volumes to 47." Highlighting the Academy's published works The President of the Holy Quran Academy highlighted that the Academy has published eight scientific works designed to provide academic resources that support the study of Quranic recitations. These publications focus on linguistic and rhetorical aspects, aiming to assist graduate students, researchers, reciters, and scholars in their studies. Al Tunaiji concluded his speech by emphasising that the Academy has strengthened its scientific and cultural position by promoting Arab and Islamic values. It has welcomed over 8,437 visits from dignitaries, Quran specialists, and university students through regional and international delegations. Additionally, the Academy's scientific seminars and summer programme have attracted 3,382 participants, including 1,082 in-person attendees and 2,300 remote participants. These courses covered topics such as manuscript restoration, Tajweed, Quranic recitations and script, and vocal performance enhancement. The Academy continues to play a vital role in Sharjah's efforts to develop human capital and preserve Arab and Islamic identity. A Quranic license awarded to an Indonesian student During the event, His Highness also listened to a recitation by Ahmed Fawzi, a student from Indonesia who completed the Quran under the supervision of reciter Mustafa Khader. His Highness then signed the certificate granting Fawzi a Quranic license from Mustafa Khader, symbolising the Academy's mission to spread Arab and Islamic identity globally. Honouring supporters and sponsors of the Academy His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the sponsors and supporters of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy by presenting them with certificates of appreciation and shields. He also took a commemorative photo with the scholars and individuals who had completed the two encyclopedias. Graduation of the fifth batch of students At the conclusion of the ceremony, the fifth batch of graduates from the Academy received their Quranic licenses, with a chain of transmission traceable back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). The "Rhetorical Interpretation" Encyclopedia and its contributions The Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation is the first of its kind to comprehensively address the rhetoric of the Holy Quran, utilising a unique methodology. It explores the semantic distinctions between Quranic terms and draws on primary interpretive, linguistic, and rhetorical sources. Focus of the "Methods of Separating Readings" Encyclopedia The Encyclopedia of Methods of Separating Readings is a specialised project focused on the science of Quranic recitations, consisting of three main branches. The first includes a single-narrator method, detailed across more than 10 volumes. It features a Qur'an with concise marginal notes explaining the narration, a colour-coded Quran illustrating the rules of the narration, and a special appendix displaying the narration family trees. The encyclopedia provides a comprehensive list of all schools of recitation, allowing reciters and their students to choose from a range of options without favouring any particular school, ensuring its applicability across the entire nation. The Academy's initiatives and global impact The Academy, through its three pillars—the Sharjah Global Electronic Recitation Centre, scientific research, and Quranic museums—has launched several initiatives that provide valuable resources for researchers, graduate students, Quran recitation scholars, and others interested in the field. These efforts aim to strengthen the Academy's role in advancing Quran recitation programmes, fostering national expertise, promoting scientific research, and establishing both local and international partnerships that support the Holy Quran. Dignitaries and attendees at the ceremony Alongside His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, the ceremony was attended by Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Holy Quran Academy; Ali Ahmed Bu Ghazin, Chairman of the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority; Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mail, Chairman of the Social Services Department; Jamal Al Turaifi, President of Al Qasimia University; Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Head of the Protocol and Hospitality Department; Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council; Abdullah bin Yarouf Al Sabousi, Chairman of the Department of Islamic Affairs; and a number of senior officials, dignitaries, and Quran reciters.
Emirates 24/7
26-02-2025
- General
- Emirates 24/7
Sharjah Ruler attends 3rd season harvest of 'Saba Sanabel'
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended, on Wednesday morning, the 3rd season harvest ceremony of Saba Sanabel "Seven Spikes" wheat in Mleiha. This season, the wheat achieved a protein content of 19.3 percent, reflecting high-quality production. Before the ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan toured the event area, where he officially launched a variety of new organic products made from "Saba Sanabel" flour. The recently introduced products feature a diverse selection of pasta, "balaleet" vermicelli, croissants, cakes, biscuits, semolina, and traditional Arabic bread. H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan engaged with Emirati farmers, who are provided with seeds and equipment by the Sharjah Agriculture and Livestock Department in accordance with his directives. This season, the Sharjah Ruler's grant for farmers provided 25 tons of premium wheat seeds, benefiting a total of 559 farmers. During the visit, H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan reviewed the modern harvesting technologies employed in the third season of wheat production. The Ruler of Sharjah and the attendees witnessed the wheat harvesting process, signaling the official commencement of the third season harvest at the wheat farm. The harvesting process utilised advanced machinery, featuring three specialised machines: one designed for separating grains from straw, another for collecting straw, and a third for compressing it into bales. Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of Sharjah Agriculture and Livestock Production EST. (Iktifa), addressed the audience, emphasising the steadfast support of the Sharjah Ruler in enhancing food security. This year's harvest includes 37 sections, totaling 1,428 hectares, with an anticipated yield of 6,000 tons of organic wheat. Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji announced that the "Saba Sanabel" wheat has achieved a protein content of 19.3 percent this season, compared to 18.1 percent in its first season, which previously set a global record. He praised the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah in adopting an organic farming model, which enhances soil fertility year after year. Dr. Al Tunaiji detailed that the third season of the wheat farm featured the cultivation of three distinct wheat varieties. The leading variety, Yokora Rojo from Saudi Arabia, was joined by Egypt 3 and Egypt 4 from Egypt, both of which showcased remarkable yield and robust stalks in experimental plots. The Egyptian varieties shown a higher protein content in Sharjah compared to their country of origin. Additionally, corn silage was planted on 12.5 hectares as a trial phase to provide green fodder for cattle, producing over 500 tons of easily digestible feed. Plans are underway to expand summer farming with leguminous forage crops, ensuring crop rotation between grass and legumes to supply organic feed. The CEO of Iktifa stated that agricultural researchers at the farm are actively working on developing new experimental wheat strains, aiming to create the "Sharjah 1" variety. He noted that the third season saw the cultivation of 1,450 non-GMO soft and hard wheat strains, doubling the number from previous seasons. The hybridization program has also advanced, with the number of parent plants increasing to 45, selected in the second season. These plants have undergone research at the first-of-its-kind Biotechnology Laboratory in the UAE, which is equipped with advanced smart technology for physiological measurements and molecular analysis to determine the genetic lineage of the selected wheat strains. Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji wrapped up his speech by thanking the Ruler of Sharjah, praising his vision and ongoing commitment to fostering development and sustainability. He highlighted that language cannot fully convey the extent of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan's contributions to the nation. The harvest ceremony featured a traditional "Taghrooda" performance by a group of children, expressing their gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah for his efforts in providing healthy and organic food. Additionally, Furthermore, H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan viewed a unique video named "A Touch of Loyalty," featuring individuals from various nationalities who recounted their experiences with organic food produced by Iktifa. Participants emphasized the substantial health improvements they experienced, especially those who had previously faced challenges consuming milk, dairy products, and regular flour. The event highlighted a documentary segment that focused on Japanese farmer Yoshiki Yamamoto, known for his expertise in clean organic farming. The video highlighted Sharjah's sustainable organic agriculture model and the Ruler's dedication to ensuring safe and healthy food. Inspired by Sharjah's agricultural vision, Yamamoto successfully transformed the desert into an organic wheat farm. He also conveyed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to be in Sharjah and take part in the harvest of an exceptional wheat crop. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the strategic partners whose support and collaboration played a significant role in the success of the third agricultural season of the Mleiha wheat farm. H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan presented them with commemorative shields and took group photos in appreciation of their contributions. H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan also received a commemorative gift from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in recognition of his efforts in the agricultural sector and food security. The gesture underscored his commitment to fostering healthy organic food production and encouraging for sustainable agricultural methods. The Mleiha wheat farm uses cutting-edge irrigation technologies, resulting in a 30 percent reduction in water consumption. The smart Valley 365 application is utilized, enabling remote management of irrigation systems and measuring soil moisture at a depth of 60 cm via ground sensors. Moreover, satellite technology delivers daily updates on agricultural activities, irrigation methods, and the health of crops. The farm features advanced smart agricultural machinery aimed at boosting productivity, safeguarding the environment, and fostering sustainable growth. Alongside the Ruler of Sharjah, the ceremony was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD); Sheikh Eng. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Municipalities; Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, UAE's Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, along with several high-ranking officials and dignitaries from the region. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Sharjah 24
26-02-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Ruler attends 3rd season Harvest of "Saba Sanabel"
Launching New Organic Products Before the ceremony, His Highness toured the event area, where he officially launched a variety of new organic products made from "Saba Sanabel" flour. The recently introduced products feature a diverse selection of pasta, "balaleet" vermicelli, croissants, cakes, biscuits, semolina, and traditional Arabic bread. Support for Local Farmers His Highness engaged with Emirati farmers, who are provided with seeds and equipment by the Sharjah Agriculture and Livestock Department in accordance with his directives. This season, the Sharjah Ruler's grant for farmers provided 25 tons of premium wheat seeds, benefiting a total of 559 farmers. During the visit, His Highness reviewed the modern harvesting technologies employed in the third season of wheat production. Sharjah Ruler Observes the Harvesting Process His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and the attendees witnessed the wheat harvesting process, signaling the official commencement of the third season harvest at the wheat farm. The harvesting process utilised advanced machinery, featuring three specialised machines: one designed for separating grains from straw, another for collecting straw, and a third for compressing it into bales. Speech on Food Security Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of Sharjah Agriculture and Livestock Production EST. (Iktifa), addressed the audience, emphasising the steadfast support of the Sharjah Ruler in enhancing food security. This year's harvest includes 37 sections, totaling 1,428 hectares, with an anticipated yield of 6,000 tons of organic wheat. Record Protein Levels Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji announced that the "Saba Sanabel" wheat has achieved a protein content of 19.3% this season, compared to 18.1% in its first season, which previously set a global record. He praised the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah in adopting an organic farming model, which enhances soil fertility year after year. Launch of New Varieties Dr. Al Tunaiji detailed that the third season of the wheat farm featured the cultivation of three distinct wheat varieties. The leading variety, Yokora Rojo from Saudi Arabia, was joined by Egypt 3 and Egypt 4 from Egypt, both of which showcased remarkable yield and robust stalks in experimental plots. The Egyptian varieties shown a higher protein content in Sharjah compared to their country of origin. Additionally, corn silage was planted on 12.5 hectares as a trial phase to provide green fodder for cattle, producing over 500 tons of easily digestible feed. Plans are underway to expand summer farming with leguminous forage crops, ensuring crop rotation between grass and legumes to supply organic feed. Developing New Wheat Strains The CEO of Iktifa stated that agricultural researchers at the farm are actively working on developing new experimental wheat strains, aiming to create the "Sharjah 1" variety. He noted that the third season saw the cultivation of 1,450 non-GMO soft and hard wheat strains, doubling the number from previous seasons. The hybridization program has also advanced, with the number of parent plants increasing to 45, selected in the second season. These plants have undergone research at the first-of-its-kind Biotechnology Laboratory in the UAE, which is equipped with advanced smart technology for physiological measurements and molecular analysis to determine the genetic lineage of the selected wheat strains. Recogni s ing the Vision of Leadership Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji wrapped up his speech by thanking His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, praising his vision and ongoing commitment to fostering development and sustainability. He highlighted that language cannot fully convey the extent of His Highness's contributions to the nation. The harvest ceremony featured a traditional "Taghrooda" performance by a group of children, expressing their gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his efforts in providing healthy and organic food. Additionally, Furthermore, His Highness viewed a unique video named "A Touch of Loyalty," featuring individuals from various nationalities who recounted their experiences with organic food produced by Iktifa. Participants emphasized the substantial health improvements they experienced, especially those who had previously faced challenges consuming milk, dairy products, and regular flour. Insights from a Japanese Farmer The event highlighted a documentary segment that focused on Japanese farmer Yoshiki Yamamoto, known for his expertise in clean organic farming. The video highlighted Sharjah's sustainable organic agriculture model and the Ruler's dedication to ensuring safe and healthy food. Inspired by Sharjah's agricultural vision, Yamamoto successfully transformed the desert into an organic wheat farm. He also conveyed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to be in Sharjah and take part in the harvest of an exceptional wheat crop. Honouring Strategic Partners At the conclusion of the ceremony, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the strategic partners whose support and collaboration played a significant role in the success of the third agricultural season of the Mleiha wheat farm. His Highness presented them with commemorative shields and took group photos in appreciation of their contributions. Recognition from ICARDA His Highness also received a commemorative gift from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in recognition of his efforts in the agricultural sector and food security. The gesture underscored his commitment to fostering healthy organic food production and encouraging for sustainable agricultural methods. The Mleiha wheat farm uses cutting-edge irrigation technologies, resulting in a 30% reduction in water consumption. The smart Valley 365 application is utilized, enabling remote management of irrigation systems and measuring soil moisture at a depth of 60 cm via ground sensors. Moreover, satellite technology delivers daily updates on agricultural activities, irrigation methods, and the health of crops. The farm features advanced smart agricultural machinery aimed at boosting productivity, safeguarding the environment, and fostering sustainable growth. Alongside His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, the ceremony was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD); Sheikh Eng. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Municipalities; His Excellency Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, UAE's Minister of Climate Change and Environment; His Excellency Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, along with several high-ranking officials and dignitaries from the region.
