Dubai Municipality Launches Second Hatta Farming Festival

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

Dubai Municipality has launched the second Hatta Farming Festival as part of the Dubai Farms programme. This initiative was started by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The festival is also backed by the Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs.

The festival began today at Leem Lake and will continue until 22 January. It features 25 Emirati farmers, homesteaders, and local agricultural companies. The event aims to showcase farming products, encourage cooperation among farmers, and support the UAE’s growing agriculture industry.

The Hatta Farming Festival is part of the Hatta Winter initiative, which was launched by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. This initiative invites residents and visitors to discover the unique experiences in the Hatta region during the cooler months. The festival is being organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Dubai Media Office, under the supervision of the Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta.

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The festival showcases Hatta’s potential as a leading agri-tourism destination. It highlights the area’s environmental and cultural richness while promoting sustainable practices. This aligns with Dubai’s vision to support local farmers and make Hatta a key hub for agriculture and tourism.

The festival also supports the goals of the Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan, which aims to create more opportunities for tourism and business in the region. By encouraging local farming and celebrating Hatta’s agricultural history, the festival strengthens the region’s economy and heritage.

Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dhahak, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said the event supports the UAE’s national food security goals. She explained that boosting agriculture and increasing the production of local crops are top priorities. She added that reducing dependence on food imports is essential for the UAE’s development.

Dr. Amna also highlighted the importance of the Plant the Emirates National Programme. This initiative focuses on promoting farming across the UAE and involving the community in sustainable agriculture. The Hatta Farming Festival plays a key role in encouraging farming as a vital activity and integrating it into the community’s culture.

She further said that Hatta is an important part of Dubai’s agricultural heritage. Its ongoing growth in farming helps in shaping a sustainable future for the next generations. She announced that this year will see many new projects and initiatives under the Plant the Emirates programme to support local farmers and enhance farming practices.

His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, said the festival highlights Hatta’s role as one of Dubai’s oldest and most important farming areas. He explained that the event is part of the ‘Dubai Farms’ programme, which supports Emirati farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture. He added that this initiative complements the ‘Grow UAE’ programme, which aims to advance farming in the UAE and establish the country as a leader in the sector.

Marwan bin Ghalita expressed hopes to make the Hatta Farming Festival a comprehensive platform for empowering farmers, supporting sustainable development, and improving food security. He said that the festival seeks to improve the quality of life in Dubai while assisting farmers in becoming self-sufficient.

Dubai Municipality is providing extensive support to Hatta farmers, including guidance, seeds, fertilisers, pest control, and modern farming techniques. These efforts aim to promote sustainable farming and increase productivity.

This year’s festival offers a range of activities, including exhibitions of farming and livestock products, educational workshops, and expert sessions. Visitors can learn about modern farming techniques and hear inspiring stories from local farmers and entrepreneurs. Competitions, including livestock auctions and awards for outstanding farmers, highlight the best practices in agriculture. Marketing companies are also sharing insights to help farmers improve the quality and value of their products.

Interactive sessions include talks on Hatta’s farming history, success stories from young farm owners, and discussions on modern agricultural entrepreneurship. These sessions aim to inspire younger generations to take up farming.

Dubai Municipality has set up an agricultural extension platform at the festival, offering free guidance to farmers. Visitors can benefit from the Dubai Smart Mobile Laboratory, which tests vegetables, fruits, groundwater, and irrigation. Veterinary consultations and other public health services are also available for participating farm owners.

During the 2024 agricultural season, Dubai Municipality supported Hatta farmers with resources like organic and chemical fertilisers, seeds, and pest control tools. The Municipality conducted field visits, training courses, and forums to improve farming practices. Additionally, it established the Strawberry Model Farm, the region’s first tourist farm, to showcase sustainable farming methods.

These initiatives have helped Hatta’s farmers adopt modern practices and contribute to Dubai’s Food Security Strategy. By enhancing local farming systems and promoting Hatta’s unique identity, the festival reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to sustainability and community growth.