The picturesque Hatta region has once again taken center stage with the launch of the second Hatta Farming Festival. This event, part of the visionary ‘Dubai Farms’ program championed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, is a celebration of local agriculture, sustainability, and innovation. Set against the serene backdrop of Leem Lake, the festival runs until January 22 and features a diverse lineup of 25 Emirati farmers, agricultural businesses, and homesteaders showcasing their finest produce and cutting-edge farming techniques.
A Festival Rooted in Visionary Leadership
The Hatta Farming Festival is a proud component of the broader Hatta Winter initiative, guided by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This initiative is a testament to Dubai’s commitment to elevating Hatta’s status as a hub for agri-tourism and sustainable development. It reflects Dubai’s ambitious vision of integrating heritage, agriculture, and innovation to create economic opportunities while celebrating the UAE’s rich agricultural traditions.
The festival also aligns with the Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan, a key initiative of the Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta. This strategic plan aims to drive economic growth, promote tourism, and provide a sustainable livelihood for local communities.
Empowering Farmers and Promoting Sustainability
Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dhahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the pivotal role of events like the Hatta Farming Festival in advancing sustainable agriculture and food security in the UAE. “This festival is a cornerstone of our efforts to bolster local food production and reduce dependency on imports,” she noted, highlighting the Plant the Emirates National Programme, which seeks to engage the entire nation in sustainable farming practices.
Dubai Municipality’s Acting Director General, His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, underscored the festival’s mission to support Emirati farmers through extensive initiatives like agricultural training, resource distribution, and modern farming methods. These efforts contribute significantly to Dubai’s food security strategy and aim to establish Hatta as a premier agricultural and tourism destination.
A Showcase of Innovation and Community Spirit
The festival offers a rich array of activities, from exhibitions of local produce to workshops on sustainable agriculture and public livestock auctions. Visitors can explore modern farming techniques, hear success stories from local farmers, and gain insights from agricultural experts. Competitions and awards recognize outstanding farmers, while marketing sessions help participants enhance the value and quality of their produce.
One of the standout features is the Dubai Smart Mobile Laboratory, which provides on-site testing services for fruits, vegetables, and irrigation water. Additionally, veterinary services ensure the health and productivity of livestock, further supporting the farming community.
Transforming Hatta into an Agri-Tourism Gem
Hatta’s transformation into a sustainable agricultural hub is not merely a vision—it is a reality being shaped by initiatives like the Strawberry Model Farm, a pioneering tourist farm that highlights sustainable farming practices. With the Municipality’s extensive support, including the distribution of fertilizers, seeds, and pest control solutions, local farmers have embraced modern agricultural methods, significantly enhancing productivity.
This year’s festival is a powerful reminder of Hatta’s unique position in Dubai’s agricultural and cultural landscape. By blending heritage with innovation, the Hatta Farming Festival serves as a beacon of sustainability, community development, and economic growth.
A Bright Future for Agriculture in Hatta
The Hatta Farming Festival exemplifies Dubai’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and agricultural innovation. By empowering local farmers, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the region’s agri-tourism appeal, the festival is shaping a greener, more prosperous future for Hatta and the UAE as a whole.