ICBA Trains 20 Agricultural Professionals to Expand Climate-Smart Crop Cultivation Across UAE

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has trained 20 agricultural extension service professionals to support the expansion of climate-smart crop cultivation across the UAE under the National Agricultural Initiative for the Adoption of Climate-Smart Crops.

The Training of Trainers Programme aims to translate ICBA's scientific research into practical agricultural guidance. The trained professionals will provide technical support and monitor crop cultivation across 45 selected farms throughout the Emirates, helping farmers diversify production and use resources more efficiently.

UAE Climate-Smart Agriculture Initiative Targets Food Security

The programme is part of the National Agricultural Initiative for the Adoption of Climate-Smart Crops, launched jointly by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and ICBA in April 2026.

The initiative draws on agricultural research to diversify local food and fodder production while improving water-use efficiency. It also supports the objectives of the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051.

During its first phase in 2026, the initiative focuses on expanding cultivation across selected farms, training 45 Emirati farmers and preparing agricultural extension professionals to support implementation.

The second phase, planned for 2027, will focus on commercial expansion and partnerships with the private sector.

Together, the two phases aim to develop agricultural value chains covering seeds, cultivation, harvesting, processing and marketing. The approach is also intended to create economic opportunities and strengthen farmers' livelihoods.

ICBA Training Focuses on Practical Guidance and Field Monitoring

Sessions were delivered by ICBA experts and covered the initiative's objectives, key components, implementation schedule and the responsibilities of agricultural extension professionals in supporting farmers.

A key part of the programme focused on collecting reliable and consistent field data to document crop performance and guide technical follow-up.

Participants were introduced to a digital data-collection tool adapted to the initiative's requirements, along with procedures for maintaining data quality and scientific validation. Discussions also addressed opportunities for cooperation, anticipated implementation challenges and the next steps for the programme.

The training concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to participants.

Climate-Smart Crops to Support Sustainable Agricultural Production

Dr Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, said environmental challenges and increasing pressure on natural resources underline the importance of expanding crops suited to local conditions and capable of using resources efficiently.

She said: “This programme equips agricultural extension service professionals with the scientific knowledge and practical expertise to support farmers in growing these crops and expanding their adoption across the Emirates.”

Ongoing field monitoring will enable ICBA researchers and extension professionals to identify farmers' requirements and respond to production challenges.

By connecting applied agricultural research with practical technical support, the initiative aims to help farmers expand climate-smart cultivation, diversify local production and contribute to more sustainable agriculture in the UAE.