**UAE**: Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan inaugurated Silal’s Innovation Oasis, a cutting-edge agri-tech R&D centre focused on sustainable farming and food security. The launch includes the Advance AgriTech Academy and a partnership with UAE University to drive innovation and train Emirati professionals.
His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, has officially opened Silal’s Innovation Oasis (iO), a new research and development centre dedicated to agricultural technology in the UAE. The initiative aims to bolster the country’s efforts in sustainable farming and enhance food security in line with the National Food Security Strategy 2051.
The Innovation Oasis spans over 300,000 square metres and functions as a collaborative ecosystem involving researchers, industry experts, startups, and academic institutions. It features advanced laboratories, growth chambers, phenotyping facilities, greenhouses, net-houses, and open-field research plots. The centre will focus on innovations such as climate-resilient farming, controlled-environment agriculture, and resource-efficient food production tailored to withstand the UAE’s extreme climate conditions.
Key areas under investigation include water-food-energy integration using solar thermal desalination, precision agriculture powered by the Internet of Things, and the development of saltwater-resistant crops. The facility will also explore the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and data analytics to optimise farm management, improve post-harvest technologies, enhance supply chain efficiency, and reduce food waste.
Alongside the iO inauguration, Sheikh Hazza also witnessed the launch of the Advance AgriTech Academy, a training programme designed to cultivate the next generation of Agritech professionals in the UAE. The academy will offer specialised career guidance and practical training in partnership with leading global research organisations, aiming to equip Emirati students with the skills necessary to advance agricultural innovation.
In a further step to promote research and academic excellence, Silal signed a cooperation agreement with United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). This partnership will support agricultural research and innovation, including provision of five scholarships specifically for students at UAEU’s College of Agriculture focused on sustainability and food security.
His Highness Sheikh Hazza highlighted the strategic importance of investing in agritech research, stating its role in advancing sustainable local production, fostering innovation, and building a knowledge-based economy. “Strengthening food supply chains and addressing future food security challenges both regionally and globally are paramount,” he said.
Salmeen Obaid Alameri, CEO of Silal, remarked: “Innovation Oasis (iO) is redefining the future of agri-food in the UAE. By harnessing advanced technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, we are strengthening the resilience and sustainability of our food system. With a strong focus on research, innovation, and knowledge transfer, we are not only driving progress but also positioning the UAE at the forefront of global agritech solutions.”
The developments at Silal reflect the UAE’s broader commitment to enhancing food security through sustainable and innovative agricultural practices, addressing the challenges posed by climate change and resource constraints in the region.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hazza-bin-zayed-witnesses-inauguration-of-innovation-oasis-and-advance-agritech-academy-in-al-ain-region-302437235.html – Supports the claim that His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan inaugurated Silal’s Innovation Oasis, a research and development facility dedicated to agricultural technology in the UAE, aligning with national food security objectives.
- https://www.silal.ae/innovation/innovation-oasis – Corroborates the focus of Innovation Oasis on developing sustainable agricultural practices and using environmentally-safe technologies to address climate change challenges in the UAE.
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hazza-bin-zayed-witnesses-inauguration-of-innovation-oasis-and-advance-agritech-academy-in-al-ain-region-302437235.html – Mentions the launch of the Advance AgriTech Academy alongside Innovation Oasis, further supporting the development of agricultural innovation in the UAE.
- https://www.silal.ae/newsroom/silal-and-bayer-advance-agricultural-innovation-partnership-with-comprehensive-memorandum-of-understanding – Highlights Silal’s partnership with Bayer to advance agricultural innovation, including the development of sustainable desert farming practices at Innovation Oasis, which aligns with addressing regional challenges.
- https://www.silal.ae – Outlines Silal’s role in the UAE as a leader in the agri-tech and food sector, aiming to diversify food sources and enhance manufacturing, which is central to the broader mission of Innovation Oasis.
- https://www.bayer.com/media/en-us/silal-and-bayer-advance-agricultural-innovation-partnership-with-comprehensive-memorandum-of-understanding – Further supports the partnership between Silal and Bayer in advancing agricultural innovation, contributing to the UAE’s national food security goals.
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hazza-bin-zayed-witnesses-inauguration-of-innovation-oasis-and-advance-agritech-academy-in-al-ain-region-302437230.html – Original press release. View link for all data
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The content appears fresh, referencing a recent inauguration event. However, I could not find other similar articles to confirm its originality.
Quotes check
Score:
7
Notes:
Quotes from Sheikh Hazza and Salmeen Obaid Alameri are provided but lack specific online references. The content seems original, as specific quotes were not verified from older articles.
Source reliability
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative originates from PR Newswire, which is generally considered a reliable platform for press releases.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims regarding sustainable agricultural practices and investment in agritech research align with known efforts in the UAE to enhance food security. The narrative’s emphasis on climate-resilient farming and partnerships with UAE University adds to its plausibility.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The report appears to be recent and reliable, coming from PR Newswire. Quotes lack external verification but seem original. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s known strategies for food security and sustainability. Overall, the narrative is plausible, but additional verification could enhance credibility.
