Arts, Musuem & Culture

In the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, a passionate Emirati farmer, Mohammed Obaid Al Mazrouei, has turned what began as a high school dream into a flourishing farm that’s now home to 50,000 vibrant flowers. His love for flowers began over a decade ago when, as a teenager, he envisioned a farm brimming with colors and fragrances. Today, his farm in Aisima is a testament to his vision, featuring more than 25 varieties of imported flowers and stunning visitors from around the region.

Al Mazrouei’s journey wasn’t an easy one. Growing flowers in the harsh UAE climate seemed like an impossible task to many, but he didn’t let that stop him. After hours of research, travels to Europe, and gathering flower seeds from places like the US, the UK, and Italy, he planted the first seeds that would one day grow into his dream farm. Through patience, persistence, and a deep love for the art of floriculture, he proved the naysayers wrong. His farm now blooms with an array of flowers that include everything from snapdragons and sunflowers to salvia and the exotic Mexican sunflower.

What makes this farm so special is not just the variety of flowers, but Al Mazrouei’s meticulous attention to timing. Each flower variety blooms at different times, and careful planning ensures that all 50,000 flowers bloom simultaneously, creating an unforgettable sight. This year, he introduced Swiss flower varieties to his collection, and he’s eagerly awaiting their arrival in the next growing season.

One of his proudest accomplishments is his lavender crop. Lavender isn’t easy to grow in the UAE’s heat, but Al Mazrouei has successfully cultivated it, with the lavender now entering its second blooming season. It’s not just about the flowers; he plans to produce lavender oil—known for its use in perfumes, lotions, and soaps—an idea he’s nurturing as part of his dream to offer locally made floral products.

The farm, which opened its doors to the public in 2020, is open daily for visitors, except on Fridays when it opens after prayers. The entrance is reasonably priced at Dh15 per person, and school students and children under three enjoy free admission. The farm is more than just a flower haven; it’s a tranquil retreat with horse rides for kids, peacocks roaming freely, and a cozy café where visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings while sipping their drinks.

For Al Mazrouei, the farm is a dream realized, but it’s also about giving back to his community. His father instilled in him a love of farming, a passion that Al Mazrouei carries with him today. Visitors often describe the farm as a peaceful oasis, with many returning multiple times a year to bask in the stunning floral views. Al Mazrouei’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed; he has received recognition from Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, for his contributions to agriculture, with local government departments offering support through permits.

Al Mazrouei’s ambitions don’t stop at the UAE. He is looking to expand internationally, with plans to start a farm in Bosnia, cultivating 10,000 lavender plants in Europe. His farm is not only a beautiful destination but a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work, passion, and a touch of creativity. This flower-filled farm is a testament to Al Mazrouei’s commitment to growing something beautiful in every sense of the word, and the future of his farm looks as bright as the blooms it produces.

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