• Partnership aims to foster innovation in farming
• Reflects the UAE’s and Dubai’s commitment to strengthening food security and sustainability

Dubai, UAE – 22 October 2024: - Food Tech Valley, a UAE-government-led initiative aimed at building a sustainable food ecosystem, has announced a 27-year strategic agreement with Badia Farms to roll out hybrid models to grow premium fruits and vegetables year-round. The agreement was signed between Rashed Mohammad, Chief Real Estate Officer of Wasl, and Eng. Omar Al Jundi, Founder and CEO of Badia Farms, which is backed by Gulf Islamic Investments (GII).

Badia Farms will implement hybrid growing models across a 236k sq. ft. plot, spanning both vertical and horizontal farms, applying sustainable farming techniques that consume 90% less water compared to traditional farming, and use clean energy sources. Badia’s produce is grown in a carefully controlled indoor environment without any pesticides which ensures  the produce is fresh and nutritious, and meets the highest quality standards.

Rashed Mohammad, Chief Real Estate Officer of Wasl, commented: “This long-term partnership with Badia Farms is a significant step towards achieving the UAE's ambitious food security goals. At Food Tech Valley, we are dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainable practices in agriculture. By supporting cutting-edge technologies and collaborating with industry leaders like Badia, we are creating a robust and resilient food ecosystem that will benefit the nation for generations to come.”

Eng. Omar Al Jundi, Founder & CEO of Badia Farms, said: “We are proud to be among FTV’s partners in advancing food security. Through our expertise in hydroponic farming, Badia will continue to provide fresh, nutritious produce safely and sustainably.”

This strategic partnership represents a crucial step towards achieving the UAE's and Dubai’s vision for a sustainable and innovative food ecosystem. Food Tech Valley, with its emphasis on cutting-edge technologies and collaborative projects, is attracting industry leaders and driving progress towards enhanced food security. As the UAE anticipates increased demand and aims to reduce its reliance on imports, such partnerships will be essential in fulfilling the nation's ambitious goals outlined in the National Food Security Strategy 2051.

About Food Tech Valley

Food Tech Valley is a UAE-government-led initiative designed to address food security locally, regionally, and globally. It was announced in 2021 by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, as a partnership between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and wasl, and centers around food, innovation, knowledge, technology, and sustainability. Food Tech Valley will act as a catalyst for transforming the UAE into a global hub for tech-based food and agricultural solutions. In line with the UAE Food Security National Strategy 2051, Food Tech Valley is based on connectivity, innovation, and the facilitation of business growth in food tech. It will incorporate production zones, warehousing, logistics, and cold-storage facilities, an innovation and R&D center, an academy, a business park, a marketplace, a visitor center, and residential areas.

For more information, visit:

Website: https://www.foodtechvalley.ae/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/food-tech-valley/ 

Badia Farms 

Badia Farms is a mission-driven sustainability company that focuses on the development and production of different varieties of fruits, vegetables, and plants, utilizing innovative farming technologies and techniques. Badia Farms is backed by Gulf Islamic Investment (GII), with its US$4.5 billion assets under management (AUM).

Website: https://www.badiafarms.com