Latest news with #NationalAgriculturalMuseum
Mid East Info
3 days ago
- General
- Mid East Info
The UAE's agricultural heritage comes alive at National Agricultural Museum - Middle East Business News and Information
The UAE continues to build a sustainable agricultural sector as part of its journey to contribute to both food security and economic prosperity. At the heart of this transformation lies a fascinating story that spans centuries – from ancient desert farming practices to cutting-edge agricultural technologies. The country's remarkable journey has found its perfect storyteller in the National Agricultural Museum, unveiled at the Emirates Agriculture Conference & Exhibition 2025 being held in Al Ain. In remarks regarding the newly launched museum, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment said: 'The National Agricultural Museum marks a significant moment in the UAE's agricultural journey. A tribute to our ancestors' wisdom and our rich Emirati heritage, it will serve as a guiding light for our future generations to learn about the history of agriculture and take pride in what we have achieved. Going forward, we remain committed to steadily building up our local food production, acknowledging agriculture's central role in realising our food security ambitions.' A living testament to agricultural heritage: The museum stands as a comprehensive showcase that bridges the gap between traditional farming wisdom and futuristic agricultural innovations. This museum offers visitors an immersive journey through the UAE's agricultural evolution, from time-tested methods to revolutionary technologies. It offers visitors inspiration for how nations can transform challenges into opportunities through innovation, sustainability, and respect for cultural heritage. Visitors are taken on a journey from the past to the future, starting with traditional tools such as the Hoe (used for digging soil and ploughing), alongside the Meyaz (for cutting palm trees), the Al-Shakna (for trimming dead fronds from palm trees), and the Al Malkada (used to strike the Al-Shakna to help cut those fronds), showcasing the ingenious tool systems developed by ancient communities. Perhaps most impressive is the replica of the al falaj irrigation system – an engineering marvel that used underground tunnels to transport water across vast distances from hidden sources to community basins. These hand-dug channels sustained entire communities across the desert landscape, representing one of humanity's earliest examples of sustainable water management. The museum's live pottery demonstrations offer a captivating glimpse into a timeless tradition. In oasis regions like Al Ain and Liwa, local artisans crafted vessels from indigenous clay to store and preserve water, seeds, and crops. Often created during the agricultural off-season, pottery making became a communal activity, with designs reflecting specific tribal affiliations and transmitting practical and cultural knowledge across generations. Technology meets tradition: Today's irrigation landscape tells a different story. The museum showcases how advanced drip irrigation and subsurface systems have revolutionised water efficiency, while smart sensors and recycled water technologies maximise agricultural output with minimal resources. The future section captivates visitors with drone irrigation technology. Thermal imaging drones can detect plant stress through heat patterns invisible to the human eye, enabling farmers to respond rapidly to dehydration, disease, or equipment failures before crops suffer damage. These sophisticated systems capture infrared images and generate detailed heat maps for analysis on mobile and desktop platforms. The UAE's rich natural flora takes centre stage through exhibits featuring indigenous plants that formed the agricultural backbone for generations. The Sidr tree supports small-scale beekeeping and permaculture farms while contributing to agro-ecotourism and heritage food markets. Permaculture farms are based on the concept of utilising land, resources, people and the environment in a manner that doesn't produce any waste – and encourages the use of closed loop systems seen in nature[1]. The resilient Ghaf tree serves multiple purposes – from livestock fodder to soil stabilisation, traditional medicine, and timber for tools. The Acacia farnesiana functions as an ornamental plant, traditional perfume source, livestock fodder, and soil improver through nitrogen fixation. Similarly, the Acacia tortilis demonstrates how native species contribute to sustainable farming practices. The future is now: Modern farming techniques take prominence through displays of hydroponics and vertical farming systems. The museum's forward-looking exhibits feature robotics and artificial intelligence applications, autonomous farming machinery, and regenerative agriculture practices. A highlight is the innovative seed planting robot, representing the automation revolution transforming agriculture. The National Agricultural Museum stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to honouring its heritage while embracing technological innovation. By showcasing this remarkable journey from ancient Al falaj systems to AI-powered farming, the museum demonstrates how traditional wisdom and modern technology can work together to ensure food security and economic sustainability.
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Science
- Al Etihad
From falaj to irrigation robot: National Agricultural Museum traces UAE farming evolution
30 May 2025 00:09 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI )Robots watering crops and drones planting seeds are among the innovations that prove the UAE's agricultural industry is all set for the future. These tools are showcased at the National Agricultural Museum launched at the ongoing Emirates Agriculture Conference and museum — the first national institution dedicated to the history of agriculture in the UAE — traces the country's farming journey, from its roots before the Union to its forward-looking push toward sustainable, technology-driven practices. At the exhibition, which runs until May 31 at ADNEC Centre Al Ain, the museum featured a range of interactive exhibits, documentary displays, and digital media, inviting visitors of all ages to explore and experience firsthand how farming has progressed in the country over the National Agricultural Museum showcases traditional farming tools, their uses, and how they have evolved into robots and AI-powered the exhibits is an agricultural irrigation robot, a striking example of how far farming technology has come since the days of the ancient falaj irrigation system. Laila Al Dhaheri, Agricultural Development Researcher at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, explained that the robot can water crops over long distances, significantly reducing the time and effort required from farmers. Drones can become reliable farming partners, too, said Al Dhaheri. 'We focus on drones. [They form part of] a very important experiment in spraying, in thermal imaging, and also in the operation of agricultural spraying,' she said. Museum visitors will be able to see and explore all kinds of farming drones and get to know them in detail. Robots are considered one of the most important methods in modern agriculture because they facilitate the production of crops. 'In the future, we will focus on agricultural technology, such as artificial intelligence, robots, precision agriculture, as well as unmanned agricultural aircraft,' Al Dhaheri said. At the exhibition, the museum has set up smart screens that display details related to agricultural technology. 'For example, we have robots in agriculture, and the visitor can read about it and understand how these robots help us in harvesting processes,' Al Dhaheri said. Several commercial farms, such as Armilla Farm, are already using tech in their operations, from automation and artificial intelligence to robotics, she added. 'When we established this museum, we do so with a vision of the future—one that connects the past, present, and future in shaping the next generation of agricultural innovation,' Al Dhaheri said.
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE to launch first-ever national museum showcasing agricultural history
The UAE is set to open its first specialised museum dedicated to the country's agricultural journey. The National Agricultural Museum will be officially inaugurated during the UAE Agricultural Exhibition, held at the Adnec Centre in Al Ain from May 28 to 31. Speaking at a press conference attended by Khaleej Times, Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said the museum would celebrate the country's agricultural heritage, showcase its current achievements, and highlight future plans. Designed as an interactive and educational experience, the museum will incorporate advanced technology and rich historical content to tell the story of agriculture in the UAE — from its early roots before the union to present-day advancements. Although the museum's exact location is yet to be revealed, it will serve as a lasting tribute to key figures whose pioneering efforts helped transform agriculture in various regions in the country. 'We will highlight pioneering experiences such as those of the late Sheikh Zayed and his efforts in developing the agricultural sector, particularly in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, and the experiments he conducted in Saadiyat in 1968.' Dr Al Dahak emphasised that this initiative supports national efforts to empower Emirati farmers. Despite the challenges of farming in arid desert conditions, the UAE's agricultural sector has made remarkable progress. "Agricultural expansion is no longer optional — it is essential and must be backed by active initiatives,' she said. She explained that the museum is intended to be a source of inspiration for future generations and a way for the public to connect with the country's deep agricultural roots. 'We want it to be a window through which the community can appreciate the UAE's agricultural experience,' Al Dahak added. Selection of participants More than 100 Emirati farmers will participate in the exhibition, chosen based on strict criteria such as evaluation of their agricultural production, experience, and use of modern agricultural technologies that improve yield and extend the farming season. Preparatory meetings have been held to coordinate their participation and share successful experiences, as organisers aim to create a competitive and collaborative environment that benefits both farmers and the nation. Another key highlight of the event will be the launch of the UAE Youth Council for Agriculture, in partnership with the Federal Youth Authority. The council will lead developmental agricultural projects and contribute to the sector's innovation and growth. Showcase of innovation Held under the theme 'With agriculture, we thrive and the world thrives,' the exhibition aligns with the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051, with full support provided to Emirati farmers. The exhibition will feature the participation of 22 federal and government entities, over 60 private and startup companies, 4 government universities, and more than 1,000 students. Spanning 20,000 square metres and accommodating up to 11,000 people, the four-day exhibition will feature several specialised zones that emphasise inclusivity and innovation. Among the highlights is the 'Farmers' Exhibition,' which showcases local crops, with a particular focus on beekeepers and high-quality Emirati honey. Marketing opportunities for farmers' products will be available in both the local and international markets.
