Sheikh Mansour witnesses launch of EACE 2026 in Al Ain

His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, witnessed the launch of the second edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition (EACE) 2026, which is being held in Al Ain from April 22 to 26.

During the visit, Their Highnesses toured the exhibition pavilions, where they reviewed the latest advancements in modern agriculture that enhance the efficiency of local agricultural production.

The tour featured several national company platforms showcasing innovative solutions to address climate challenges in desert environments, alongside companies specialising in advanced food industries.

Their Highnesses also visited the zones dedicated to universities and startups, where they reviewed key projects dedicated to empowering youth and fostering innovation in the agricultural sector, alongside the Private Sector Zone and the Government Entities Zone, which showcased initiatives and legislation designed to support farmers and drive sector development.

The tour also covered the “Farmers’ Market” which showcases the finest local crops, beekeepers’ products, and a wide array of products made from locally grown dates.

For the first time at the event, two pavilions have been dedicated to Emirati women farmers and young farmers within the Farmers’ Market, in addition to a livestock owners’ tent showcasing the finest breeds of livestock, alongside marine wealth platforms - both introduced for the first time.

Sheikh Mansour emphasised that the agricultural sector in the UAE is witnessing qualitative development driven by the vision of the wise leadership, which places food security at the forefront of its priorities.

He pointed out that adopting modern agricultural technologies and enhancing innovation contribute to raising agricultural production efficiency and achieving sustainability.

Sheikh Mansour explained that supporting and empowering farmers represents a fundamental pillar in developing the national agricultural system, by providing a supportive environment that enhances the competitiveness of the local product in regional and international markets.

He noted that the wide participation witnessed by the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition reflects the growing interest in the agricultural sector in the country, and underscores the importance of partnership between government entities, the private sector, and academic institutions in building an integrated and sustainable agricultural model.

Sheikh Mansour affirmed that the UAE is moving forward as a modern agricultural model that combines authentic agricultural heritage with advanced technologies, thereby enhancing food security and keeping pace with its ambitions for a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Sheikh Hazza expressed his deep appreciation for these initiatives, which contribute to the advancement of the domestic agricultural sector, diversify its sources, and create the necessary incentives for farmers to develop their practices.

This aligns with the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who places the agricultural sector among the country’s foremost investment and production priorities, thereby strengthening food security and supporting the UAE’s comprehensive development.

He also noted the importance of involving youth in these initiatives, empowering them as an active force in sustainable development, and encouraging the adoption of the latest innovative technologies.

Delivering a keynote speech during the opening of the second edition of the conference, Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, officially announced the launch of “The National Project for UAE Good Agricultural Practices UAE GAP.”

She emphasised that this initiative serves as both a gateway and a guarantee for the quality and competitiveness of national crops in international markets.

She also revealed an ambitious strategic target, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that 80% of local farms obtain this global certification. This is a step towards standardising the highest international quality benchmarks across all farms in the country.

WAM