Sharjah Ruler Attends Launch of Gheras Organic Products

Photo: Sharjah Government Media Bureau

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a Supreme Council Member and the Ruler of Sharjah attended the launch ceremony of the new organic product line "Gheras" on Thursday morning. "Gheras" is a part of the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment, also known as "EKTIFA." This new line features organic fruits and vegetables grown in Al Dhaid’s greenhouses, ensuring they are completely free from genetic modification.

During his visit, His Highness toured the greenhouses that cover an area of three hectares in the first phase of the project. This phase includes four large greenhouses, each measuring 4,800 square meters, along with an open agricultural field of 6,800 square meters. These greenhouses and fields are expected to produce around 250 tons of organic crops every year.

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His Highness explored a variety of fresh organic vegetables, such as eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, peppers, carrots, onions, beets, beans, and okra. He also saw organic blueberries, corn, kale, and broccoli grown in the garden.

Officials briefed His Highness about future expansion plans for the sustainable greenhouses. In the second phase, the project will cover a much larger area of 32 hectares. This phase will include nurseries, open agricultural spaces, a packaging facility, a honey production plant, and even housing for students. Additionally, administrative offices, a meeting hall, and an advanced irrigation system using smart technology will be set up to support the project’s growth.

His Highness was also informed about the challenges the project faced, particularly due to the region’s hot and dry climate. To overcome these difficulties, the greenhouses have been fitted with special cooling units. These units work using positive air pressure to regulate airflow, keeping the temperature and humidity at the ideal level for growing crops. Thanks to these modern techniques, a variety of plants can be grown throughout the year despite the tough weather conditions.

The event began with a speech by Dr. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock and CEO of EKTIFA. He praised His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for his efforts in protecting the environment, supporting agriculture, and preserving rare seed varieties.

Al Tunaiji also discussed some of the difficulties faced in expanding agricultural activities in the region. He mentioned that high temperatures and limited water sources have always been major obstacles. In the past, farmers used traditional plastic greenhouses to extend the growing season, but these required large amounts of energy and water for cooling. They were not ideal for growing trees and resulted in lower crop yields.

However, by working with a national engineer, the team was able to design modern, eco-friendly greenhouses that regulate temperature naturally while running entirely on solar energy. These greenhouses also use innovative cooling units that rely on the physical properties of water and air to maintain the perfect climate for plants year-round.

A key part of this project is the use of "heirloom seeds." These are special seeds that have been passed down through families for more than 50 years, even before World War II. Unlike genetically modified seeds, heirloom seeds retain their natural characteristics and adapt well to different environments. This makes them highly valuable, as they produce crops with rich flavors and strong genetic diversity.

Al Tunaiji revealed that this project is the first in the region to grow organic blueberries. Blueberries are a highly nutritious fruit that has become increasingly popular, especially among younger generations. He noted that the global blueberry market is worth $2.5 billion, and the UAE alone imports blueberries worth $19.5 million. The blueberries grown in these greenhouses will later be used in fruit yogurt products at the Mleiha Dairy Farm.

He also shared the long-term vision of the greenhouse project, which is guided by the directives of His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah. The plan includes expanding to 32 hectares and offering training programs for students at the University of Al Dhaid’s College of Agriculture. The project will also provide training for local farmers and agricultural experts. Additionally, it aims to create an interactive space where the public and school students can visit, learn, and enjoy an educational experience in farming.

In his closing remarks, Al Tunaiji emphasized that these efforts are not just short-term initiatives but part of a broader strategy to create a sustainable future. He explained that agriculture plays a crucial role in protecting the environment, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring food security for future generations.

As part of the event, attendees watched a documentary titled "The Story of Future Agriculture." The film showcased the progress made in greenhouse technology, from planting non-genetically modified seeds to harvesting crops using smart, eco-friendly systems.

Austrian agricultural expert Frisch Immelmann, a leading global advocate for heirloom and non-GMO seeds, also spoke at the event. She expressed her excitement about being in Sharjah and taking part in such an important initiative. She discussed the importance of preserving natural seeds and the challenges farmers face in producing chemical-free, non-GMO food. She also highlighted ongoing efforts worldwide to promote food security and sustainable farming.

To recognize her contributions, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah presented Immelmann with a commemorative shield for her work in supporting organic farming and her collaboration with Sharjah.

The greenhouses project is a significant step toward creating a self-sustaining agricultural system. By using advanced farming techniques, it ensures a stable supply of high-quality organic produce. The project helps protect crops from extreme weather and pests while allowing farmers to grow different types of vegetables beyond their usual growing seasons.

With the use of modern agricultural technology, the project aims to boost organic food production while reducing the use of chemicals. It also focuses on efficient water management and smart irrigation techniques to minimize water waste.

The grand launch event was attended by several notable figures, including Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Civil Aviation; Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council; and various high-ranking officials, department heads, and local dignitaries.