News and Articles
News and Articles
Opening of a new tomato farm in Al Ain to produce 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes annually, boosting local production in the UAE
Al Ain, United Arab Emirates – At a time when global supply chains continue to face challenges. The UAE continues to set a role model by focusing on promoting local food production. In line with its long-term strategic vision for food security and self-sufficiency. In support of this national priority. Launched UNS Farms for Vertical Farming of the Speedex Group. A new tomato farm with advanced technologies in Al Ain. This reinforces the country's orientation towards sustainable agriculture and local production. The new facility has been developed. which spans an area of 10,000 square meters. To produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes per year. This contributes to the stability of the supply of locally grown produce. This initiative reflects a broader trend towards resilient and high-quality agricultural solutions. Ensures the availability of fresh produce throughout the year. To meet the growing demand from individuals and the hospitality sector. The project is in line with the UAE's strategic objectives. Especially in light of the increasing trend of countries towards enhancing food resilience and local production. UNS Vertical Farms is proud to support these goals by employing cutting-edge technology in Controlled Environment Farming (CEA) technologies. It combines hydroponics, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. In addition to data analysis systems. Advanced sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, lighting, and plant nutrition. Centralized control systems manage climate, irrigation, ventilation, and evaporative cooling in an integrated manner. Ensuring the highest levels of production and quality while minimizing waste. The farm produces a selection of high-quality tomato varieties. Including cherry tomatoes and cluster tomatoes. All are non-GMO and pesticide and herbicide-free. Unlike imported products that are grown to withstand long-distance transportation. UNS Farms focuses on providing products with higher taste and quality that suit the consumer in the UAE. Customers can order fresh produce through its website www.unsfarms.com. In addition to an efficient supply chain that ensures that products reach stores, customers and the hospitality sector within 24 to 48 hours of harvest. This preserves its freshness and reduces waste. "Today's food security is not just about the availability of food. It involves building a sustainable and future-resilient food system. This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE's vision by providing high-quality local products that are carefully grown and cared." UNS Vertical Farms is a role model in employing technology to reshape the UAE's food production sector. They operate independently of the seasons and extreme weather conditions. Beyond the challenges of traditional agriculture in the desert climate. Its advanced systems contribute to water conservation by up to 90%. This makes it a sustainable model that is compatible with the country's directions in modern agriculture. Such initiatives contribute to strengthening local supply chains. and improve the quality of food. Ensuring the continuous supply of fresh produce to the country's population. About UNS Farms: UNS Farms was established in 2018. It is an Emirati company specializing in agricultural technologies and is affiliated with the Speedex Group. It focuses on the development of sustainable urban agriculture using vertical farming and hydroponics systems. The company operates a facility in Dubai that spans an area of approximately 8000 square meters. With a daily production of up to 1500 kg of fresh herbs, microgreens, salads and edible flowers. All are pesticide-free. Using advanced data-driven technologies. With its expansion into a new facility in Al Ain with an area of 10,000 square meters. UNS Farms continues to strengthen its role in supporting local food production. It also provides agricultural advisory services. It contributes to the development of modern agricultural systems. In addition to providing a wide range of fresh and organic products through its online platform. They include fruits, vegetables, herbs, microgreens, dairy, poultry, and meat. This ensures that you get fresh and high-quality products. With access to all over the UAE. Read more
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A Significant Step in UAE Food Security: Opening of a Smart Vertical Tomato Farm in Al Ain
Amidst challenges and vulnerabilities in global food supply chains, the UAE continues to spearhead self-sufficiency efforts by focusing on domestic production. In line with this, UNS Vertical Farms, a subsidiary of Speedex Group, has launched a state-of-the-art 10,000-square-meter farm in Al Ain. With an annual production capacity of 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes, this facility addresses the growing demand from households and the HORECA sector (hotels, restaurants, and cafes), ensuring consistent access to high-quality produce year-round. Smart Technology Drives Sustainable Agriculture The farm combines hydroponics with technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence, creating a fully intelligent and controlled environment. Precise Environmental Control: Advanced sensors continuously regulate temperature, humidity, light, and nutrients. Overcoming Climatic Limitations: This greenhouse system operates independently of the arid external climate, reducing water consumption by up to 90 percent. Premium and Organic Quality: The farm's cherry and cluster tomatoes are entirely non-GMO and free of pesticides. Unlike imported varieties, the primary focus is on preserving authentic flavor and product freshness. Fast Farm-to-Table Delivery One of the strengths of this operation is its direct-to-consumer (D2C) model. Retail and wholesale customers can place orders through the company's website (www.unsfarms.com). Thanks to this efficient system, products reach customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvesting, maximizing freshness and minimizing waste. Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Vertical Farms, states: "Food security today is not just about the availability of food; our goal is to create a sustainable, resilient, and future-ready ecosystem in the UAE." This private sector initiative is a prime example of agricultural transformation through technology and plays a significant role in advancing the country's broader objectives, including the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 target. Read more
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Inauguration of a new tomato farm in Al Ain to produce 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes annually
Al Ain, United Arab Emirates – At a time when global supply chains continue to face challenges, the UAE continues to lead by example by focusing on boosting local food production, in line with its long-term strategic vision for food security and self-sufficiency. In support of this national priority, UNS Vertical Farms, a subsidiary of the Speedex Group, has launched a new tomato farm with advanced technologies in Al Ain, reinforcing the country's drive towards sustainable agriculture and local production. The new facility, which spans an area of 10,000 square meters, has been developed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes per year, contributing to the stability of the supply of locally grown produce. The initiative reflects a broader trend towards resilient and high-quality agricultural solutions, ensuring the availability of fresh produce throughout the year, to meet the growing demand from individuals and the hospitality sector. The project is in line with the UAE's strategic objectives, especially in light of the growing trend of countries towards enhancing food resilience and local production. UNS Vertical Farms is proud to support these goals by employing cutting-edge technology in controlled environments that combine hydroponics, IoT and artificial intelligence, as well as data analytics systems, to create an accurate and highly efficient farming environment. Advanced sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, lighting and plant nutrition, while centralized control systems manage climate, irrigation, ventilation and evaporative cooling in an integrated manner, ensuring the highest levels of production and quality while minimizing waste. The farm produces a selection of high-quality tomato varieties, including cherry tomatoes and cluster tomatoes, all of which are non-GMO and pesticide and herbicide free. Unlike imported products that are grown to withstand long-distance transportation, UNS Farms focuses on providing products with a higher taste and quality that suit the UAE consumer. The company also adopts a direct-to-consumer model, where customers can order fresh produce through its website, in addition to an efficient supply chain that ensures that products reach stores, customers and the hospitality sector within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, maintaining freshness and reducing waste. "Today's food security is not just about the availability of food, but also about building a sustainable and future-ready food system. This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE's vision by providing high-quality local products that are carefully grown and cared." UNS Vertical Farms is a role model in employing technology to reshape the UAE's food production sector. They operate independently of extreme seasons and weather conditions, overcoming the challenges of traditional farming in desert climates. Its advanced systems contribute to water conservation by up to 90%, making it a sustainable model that is compatible with the country's trends in modern agriculture. Initiatives such as these contribute to strengthening local supply chains, improving food quality, and ensuring the continuous availability of fresh produce to the country's population. About UNS Farms:Established in 2018, UNS Farms is an Emirati agritech company that belongs to the Speedex Group, focused on the development of sustainable urban agriculture using vertical farming and hydroponics systems. The company operates a facility in Dubai spanning approximately 8000 square meters, with a daily production of up to 1500 kg of fresh herbs, microgreens, salads and edible flowers, all pesticide-free, using advanced data-driven technologies. With its expansion into a new 10,000 square metre facility in Al Ain, UNS Farms continues to strengthen its role in supporting local food production. It also provides agricultural consultancy services, contributes to the development of modern agricultural systems, in addition to providing a wide range of fresh and organic products through its online platform, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, microgreens, dairy products, poultry and meat, ensuring access to high-quality fresh products, with access to all parts of the UAE. Read more
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UNS Farms Opens 10,000 sqm Tomato Facility in Al Ain
UNS Farms Launches High-Tech Tomato Farm in Al Ain UNS Farms, part of the UAE-based Speedex Group, has opened a new high-tech tomato farm in Al Ain. The 10,000-square-metre facility is designed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes annually, supplying both households and the HORECA sector with locally grown produce. Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Farms, said: “Food security today goes beyond availability, it is about building a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready UAE food ecosystem. This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE's national vision by delivering consistent, high-quality produce grown locally with precision and care.” UNS Farms Facility and Technology Controlled-Environment Agriculture The farm employs controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) technology, combining hydroponics with IoT, AI, and data-driven systems. Advanced sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, CO₂ levels, lighting, and nutrient delivery. A centralized control system integrates climate control, irrigation cycles, airflow, and evaporative cooling into a single automated platform. The facility operates independently of seasons and weather conditions, and its systems are reported to reduce water consumption by up to 90 per cent compared to conventional farming methods. Produce and Varieties UNS Farms cultivates a selection of tomato varieties, including cherry and bunch tomatoes. All produce is non-GMO and grown without pesticides or herbicides. The facility operates year-round, providing a consistent supply of fresh tomatoes to the local market. UNS Farms' Supply Chain Model Direct-to-Consumer Approach UNS Farms operates a direct-to-consumer (D2C) model, allowing customers to order produce through its website. The company's supply chain is structured to deliver produce to retail and HORECA customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvest. Alignment with UAE National Strategies The Speedex Group has maintained a presence in the UAE for more than three decades. UNS Farms states that the facility is aligned with the UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the country's Net Zero 2050 goals. The farm is positioned as part of the private sector's broader contribution to national food security and sustainability priorities. Read mor
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UAE bets on vertical farming and AI to cut food imports and build resilient desert agriculture
For decades, food security in the Gulf was framed as a logistical challenge. Countries with limited arable land and harsh climatic conditions depended heavily on imports, making supply chains central to national stability. The UAE was no exception. Today, nearly 90% of the country’s food supply is imported, a reality shaped by desert terrain, limited freshwater resources, and rising climate pressures. Yet rather than attempting to replicate traditional agricultural systems unsuited to its environment, the UAE has begun pursuing a fundamentally different approach. The country is increasingly positioning itself as a testing ground for controlled-environment agriculture, where food production is driven less by rainfall and soil quality and more by engineering, automation, and climate-controlled systems. The shift is not purely agricultural. It is strategic. Food security in the UAE is now being treated as a national resilience issue tied directly to technology, sustainability, and long-term economic diversification. The UAE is not trying to imitate traditional farming models developed in temperate climates. It is attempting to redefine how food can be produced under environmental constraint and, in doing so, create systems that may eventually be exportable to other climate-vulnerable regions. Agriculture without seasons One of the clearest signs of this transition is the rapid expansion of vertical farming and hydroponic agriculture across the country. These systems allow crops to be cultivated indoors within fully controlled environments, where temperature, humidity, lighting, nutrient delivery, and airflow are regulated through data-driven systems. In practical terms, this means farms are no longer dependent on seasons or external climate conditions. Production can continue year-round, even during peak summer temperatures when conventional agriculture becomes increasingly difficult. Dubai-based vertical farming company Greeneration reflects this new agricultural direction. The company has expanded its production of edible flowers, microgreens, rare herbs, and specialty leaves for the UAE’s hospitality sector using advanced hydroponic systems housed within controlled environments. Its product range includes globally recognised ingredients such as Shiso Green, Lemon Verbena, Huacatay, and Oxalis leaves, varieties traditionally imported from markets including Japan, Peru, and Europe. Rather than relying on international sourcing, the company is localising cultivation within the UAE itself. According to Roman Ulyanov, Founder and Managing Partner, Greeneration, the objective is not only freshness, but supply chain proximity and consistency. “We were inspired by the cultural significance of these crops in various cuisines around the world,” he explained. “Our goal is to localise production and increase the quality of these globally beloved ingredients by bringing these closer to home.” The significance of projects like this extends beyond premium dining. Vertical farming allows agricultural production to move closer to urban centres, reducing transportation distances, spoilage, and import dependency. In markets where freshness windows matter, particularly hospitality and fine dining, localisation also improves quality control. Greeneration currently produces more than 70 varieties of crops using hydroponic systems supported by tightly regulated lighting and climate conditions. The company says its infrastructure can support supply to more than 1,000 restaurants across the UAE while maintaining same-day harvesting and rapid delivery cycles. More importantly, these farms use substantially less water than conventional farming systems, a critical factor in one of the world’s most water-stressed regions. Constraint as a catalyst What makes the UAE’s agricultural strategy distinctive is that environmental limitation itself has become the driver of innovation. Countries with abundant farmland often improve agriculture incrementally. The UAE does not have that luxury. Extreme heat, saline soil conditions, and limited freshwater availability force the country to rethink production models entirely. As a result, technologies once considered experimental are becoming commercially viable at scale. This includes hydroponics, vertical farming, AI-assisted climate management systems, sensor-based nutrient monitoring, automated irrigation, and IoT-enabled environmental controls. The newly launched UNS Vertical Farms facility in Al Ain illustrates how rapidly these systems are evolving. Developed by UAE-based Speedex Group, the 10,000-square-metre tomato farm is expected to produce around 150,000 kilograms of tomatoes annually using controlled-environment agriculture technologies. “Food security today goes beyond availability, it is about building a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready UAE food ecosystem,” said Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Vertical Farms. “This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE’s national vision by delivering consistent, high-quality produce grown locally with precision and care.” The facility integrates hydroponics with AI and data-driven systems that continuously regulate variables including humidity, carbon dioxide levels, lighting intensity, irrigation cycles, and airflow. This precision-based approach allows farms to optimise output while significantly reducing resource consumption. According to the company, water usage can be reduced by up to 90% compared to traditional agricultural methods. That efficiency matters not only environmentally, but economically. In conventional agriculture, variability is often unavoidable. Weather patterns shift, water access fluctuates, and crop quality changes seasonally. Controlled-environment farming reduces many of those variables, creating more predictable production systems capable of operating continuously. For retailers and hospitality operators, predictability has commercial value. Produce can move from harvest to shelves within 24 to 48 hours, reducing storage time and waste while improving freshness. The UAE’s food strategy is therefore becoming increasingly interconnected with logistics, supply chain efficiency, and digital infrastructure. Policy support and national strategy This transition is not occurring in isolation. It is supported by broader national policy frameworks focused on food resilience and localised production capacity. Over recent years, the UAE government has accelerated initiatives tied to sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and food security innovation. Institutions including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment have increasingly prioritised agricultural technologies capable of operating within arid conditions. The country’s National Food Security Strategy 2051 aims to strengthen domestic food production while reducing vulnerability to global supply disruptions. The strategy places emphasis on modern farming technologies, research and development, supply chain resilience, and public-private partnerships. Global disruptions over the past several years have reinforced the urgency of those efforts. Pandemic-related shipping delays, geopolitical instability, rising transportation costs, and climate-driven agricultural shocks exposed the fragility of heavily import-dependent food systems worldwide. For Gulf economies, the lesson was clear: food security could no longer rely solely on purchasing power and import access. The UAE’s response has been to invest not just in food reserves, but in production capability itself. Increasingly, this also includes industrial partnerships that strengthen local agricultural ecosystems beyond farming alone. At Make it in the Emirates 2026, Borouge signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Al Ain Farms Group to supply approximately 3,500 tonnes of high-density polyethylene annually for food packaging operations. The agreement supports local packaging production tied to dairy and juice supply chains while reducing reliance on external sourcing. “Local sourcing is fundamental to how we operate, and our partnership with Borouge demonstrates our commitment to working with UAE-based businesses to support national capability,” said Hassan Safi, Group CEO of Al Ain Farms Group. “Our expanded collaboration allows us to strengthen the local supply chain that supports our products. This supports UAE’s in-country value as well as the UAE’s ambition to produce more of what it consumes within its own borders contributing to local self-sufficiency targets.” This reflects a broader shift in how food security is being understood within the UAE. The focus is no longer limited to farming alone. It increasingly includes manufacturing, packaging, cold-chain logistics, automation, and supply continuity. From buyers to builders Perhaps the most significant aspect of the UAE’s agricultural transformation is that its ambitions extend beyond domestic consumption. The country is gradually positioning itself as a centre for arid-climate agricultural innovation, developing expertise that may eventually hold value internationally. Controlled-environment agriculture is particularly relevant as climate volatility intensifies globally. Rising temperatures, water shortages, and declining agricultural productivity are becoming concerns across multiple regions, not only the Middle East. The technologies currently being refined in the UAE may therefore become increasingly transferable to other climate-challenged markets. This changes the narrative surrounding Gulf agriculture. Historically, the region was viewed primarily as a food importer constrained by geography. Today, the UAE is attempting to turn that same environmental pressure into a competitive advantage. In effect, scarcity is becoming a laboratory for innovation. The UAE’s agricultural future will likely never resemble traditional farming economies built around vast open land and rainfall-dependent production. That is not the objective. The country’s model is instead centred on efficiency, controlled production, technological integration, and resilience under extreme conditions. In many ways, that makes the UAE one of the most important real-world case studies in the future of climate-adaptive agriculture. The question is no longer whether food can be grown in the desert. The UAE is demonstrating that, with enough technological integration and policy coordination, deserts themselves may become platforms for the next generation of agricultural systems. Read more
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UAE tomato farm cuts import risk with 150,000kg local supply push
Dubai: A new tomato farm in Al Ain is set to produce 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes a year, adding to the UAE’s push to grow more food locally at a time when global supply chains remain exposed to shipping delays, freight costs and regional disruption. The 10,000-square-metre facility, developed by UNS Vertical Farms, uses controlled-environment agriculture, hydroponics, IoT and AI to grow tomatoes year-round in a country where arid conditions make traditional farming difficult. The company says the model can reduce water use by up to 90% while delivering produce to retail and HORECA Hotel, Restaurant, and Café (or Catering)) customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvest. Tomatoes are used daily across homes, restaurants, hotels and retailers, but much of the UAE’s supply still depends on imports. Producing more locally can improve freshness, reduce waste and give buyers a more stable supply of a high-consumption product. “Tomatoes are one of the most widely consumed fresh produce items across households, retail, and the HORECA sector in the UAE, making them a high-impact category for local production,” Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Vertical Farms, told Gulf News. “Focusing on tomatoes allows us to address a very practical and immediate need. Even a moderate increase in local production can directly reduce reliance on imports while improving freshness and availability.” Why tomatoes first UNS Farms says the crop performs well in controlled-environment agriculture, making it a strong category for commercial scaling in the UAE. At a national level, 150,000 kilograms will not close the import gap by itself. Murtaza said the importance lies in proving a model that can be replicated across the country. “At a national level, 150,000 kg is a relatively small contribution, but for a single controlled-environment facility, it represents a strong and efficient output,” he said. “More importantly, it demonstrates a scalable model. If similar facilities are replicated across the UAE, the cumulative impact can be significant in reducing import dependency and strengthening supply consistency.” Imports will continue to remain necessary, particularly for certain varieties and periods of peak demand. Local production, however, can take a larger share of everyday consumption if more farms are built around high-demand crops suited to controlled environments. Food security becomes practical Food security often sounds like a national strategy, but for consumers and retailers it becomes practical during periods of uncertainty. Delayed shipments, higher freight costs and disrupted sourcing can affect availability, freshness and pricing. “In periods of global uncertainty, local production becomes extremely important,” Murtaza said. “Farms like ours help reduce exposure to shipping delays, geopolitical disruptions, and fluctuating freight costs. By producing closer to the point of consumption, we can ensure more consistent availability for retailers, restaurants, and consumers.” The farm’s shorter supply chain gives it an advantage over imported produce, which is often picked and packed for long-distance travel. UNS Farms says its tomatoes can reach shelves and customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, helping reduce spoilage and improve shelf life. “Yes, it makes a very tangible difference,” Murtaza said. “Shorter delivery times mean produce reaches consumers much fresher, which improves taste, texture, and shelf life. It also reduces spoilage and waste across the supply chain, particularly for retailers and the HORECA sector.” He said reducing transit time from several days to under 48 hours can cut post-harvest losses by an estimated 20% to 30%, depending on handling and storage conditions. Water use is the bigger test In the UAE, the real challenge for local agriculture is not only land or technology. It is water. Traditional farming is difficult to scale in an arid climate without adding pressure on limited water resources. Controlled-environment farming works differently by recycling and reusing water through closed-loop systems. “Water efficiency is critical in the UAE, both from a sustainability and a commercial standpoint,” Murtaza said. “Traditional farming methods consume large amounts of water, which is not viable in an arid climate. Controlled-environment farming systems can reduce water usage by up to 90% by recycling and reusing water in closed-loop systems.” That efficiency is central to whether local farming can become commercially viable over the long term. A farm that uses less water, produces more per square metre and delivers closer to the point of consumption has a stronger business case than conventional models that rely heavily on climate, soil and long seasonal cycles. Technology on the farm floor UNS Farms uses sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, nutrients and light, while automated systems adjust growing conditions in real time. The company says this reduces variability and allows crops to grow under more stable conditions through the year. “These technologies fundamentally change how farming operates by introducing precision and control,” Murtaza said. “Sensors continuously monitor key environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, nutrients, and light, while automated systems adjust conditions in real time. This creates a highly controlled environment where crops can grow under optimal conditions throughout the year.” The result, he said, is higher yield, more consistent quality and lower waste. Productivity per square metre can be two to three times higher than traditional farming in many cases, with less variability. The farm cultivates non-GMO cherry and bunch tomatoes without pesticides or herbicides, targeting households, retailers and the HORECA sector. Fresh produce is also available directly to consumers through UNS Farms’ online platform. Scaling beyond tomatoes The bigger question is whether the model can expand into other food categories. Murtaza said scaling local production will require investment, skilled operators, energy-efficient systems and stronger alignment between farms, retailers, hotels and government entities. “Scaling local production requires a combination of investment, expertise, and strong ecosystem alignment,” he said. “This nexus is where Uns farms thrive with our practical, cost effective and profitable infrastructure. Allowing us to provide high quality product extremely efficiently on both an operational and investment standpoint.” Long-term sourcing commitments from retailers and the HORECA sector will be critical because they give farms the confidence to expand capacity. UNS Farms is also evaluating other high-consumption crops, including leafy greens and fresh produce categories suited to controlled-environment agriculture. The Al Ain facility fits into the UAE’s broader push to strengthen domestic food production, improve supply chain resilience and support the National Food Security Strategy 2051. Read more
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UAE Tomato Farm Cuts Import Risk with 150,000kg Local Supply Push
Dubai: A new tomato farm in Al Ain is set to produce 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes a year, adding to the UAE’s push to grow more food locally at a time when global supply chains remain exposed to shipping delays, freight costs and regional disruption. The 10,000-square-metre facility, developed by UNS Vertical Farms, uses controlled-environment agriculture, hydroponics, IoT and AI to grow tomatoes year-round in a country where arid conditions make traditional farming difficult. The company says the model can reduce water use by up to 90% while delivering produce to retail and HORECA Hotel, Restaurant, and Café (or Catering)) customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvest. Tomatoes are used daily across homes, restaurants, hotels and retailers, but much of the UAE’s supply still depends on imports. Producing more locally can improve freshness, reduce waste and give buyers a more stable supply of a high-consumption product. “Tomatoes are one of the most widely consumed fresh produce items across households, retail, and the HORECA sector in the UAE, making them a high-impact category for local production,” Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Vertical Farms, told Gulf News. “Focusing on tomatoes allows us to address a very practical and immediate need. Even a moderate increase in local production can directly reduce reliance on imports while improving freshness and availability.” Why tomatoes first UNS Farms says the crop performs well in controlled-environment agriculture, making it a strong category for commercial scaling in the UAE. At a national level, 150,000 kilograms will not close the import gap by itself. Murtaza said the importance lies in proving a model that can be replicated across the country. “At a national level, 150,000 kg is a relatively small contribution, but for a single controlled-environment facility, it represents a strong and efficient output,” he said. “More importantly, it demonstrates a scalable model. If similar facilities are replicated across the UAE, the cumulative impact can be significant in reducing import dependency and strengthening supply consistency.” Imports will continue to remain necessary, particularly for certain varieties and periods of peak demand. Local production, however, can take a larger share of everyday consumption if more farms are built around high-demand crops suited to controlled environments. Food security becomes practical Food security often sounds like a national strategy, but for consumers and retailers it becomes practical during periods of uncertainty. Delayed shipments, higher freight costs and disrupted sourcing can affect availability, freshness and pricing. “In periods of global uncertainty, local production becomes extremely important,” Murtaza said. “Farms like ours help reduce exposure to shipping delays, geopolitical disruptions, and fluctuating freight costs. By producing closer to the point of consumption, we can ensure more consistent availability for retailers, restaurants, and consumers.” The farm’s shorter supply chain gives it an advantage over imported produce, which is often picked and packed for long-distance travel. UNS Farms says its tomatoes can reach shelves and customers within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, helping reduce spoilage and improve shelf life. “Yes, it makes a very tangible difference,” Murtaza said. “Shorter delivery times mean produce reaches consumers much fresher, which improves taste, texture, and shelf life. It also reduces spoilage and waste across the supply chain, particularly for retailers and the HORECA sector.” He said reducing transit time from several days to under 48 hours can cut post-harvest losses by an estimated 20% to 30%, depending on handling and storage conditions. Water use is the bigger test In the UAE, the real challenge for local agriculture is not only land or technology. It is water. Traditional farming is difficult to scale in an arid climate without adding pressure on limited water resources. Controlled-environment farming works differently by recycling and reusing water through closed-loop systems. “Water efficiency is critical in the UAE, both from a sustainability and a commercial standpoint,” Murtaza said. “Traditional farming methods consume large amounts of water, which is not viable in an arid climate. Controlled-environment farming systems can reduce water usage by up to 90% by recycling and reusing water in closed-loop systems.” That efficiency is central to whether local farming can become commercially viable over the long term. A farm that uses less water, produces more per square metre and delivers closer to the point of consumption has a stronger business case than conventional models that rely heavily on climate, soil and long seasonal cycles. Technology on the farm floor UNS Farms uses sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, nutrients and light, while automated systems adjust growing conditions in real time. The company says this reduces variability and allows crops to grow under more stable conditions through the year. “These technologies fundamentally change how farming operates by introducing precision and control,” Murtaza said. “Sensors continuously monitor key environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, nutrients, and light, while automated systems adjust conditions in real time. This creates a highly controlled environment where crops can grow under optimal conditions throughout the year.” The result, he said, is higher yield, more consistent quality and lower waste. Productivity per square metre can be two to three times higher than traditional farming in many cases, with less variability. The farm cultivates non-GMO cherry and bunch tomatoes without pesticides or herbicides, targeting households, retailers and the HORECA sector. Fresh produce is also available directly to consumers through UNS Farms’ online platform. Scaling beyond tomatoes The bigger question is whether the model can expand into other food categories. Murtaza said scaling local production will require investment, skilled operators, energy-efficient systems and stronger alignment between farms, retailers, hotels and government entities. “Scaling local production requires a combination of investment, expertise, and strong ecosystem alignment,” he said. “This nexus is where Uns farms thrive with our practical, cost effective and profitable infrastructure. Allowing us to provide high quality product extremely efficiently on both an operational and investment standpoint.” Long-term sourcing commitments from retailers and the HORECA sector will be critical because they give farms the confidence to expand capacity. UNS Farms is also evaluating other high-consumption crops, including leafy greens and fresh produce categories suited to controlled-environment agriculture. The Al Ain facility fits into the UAE’s broader push to strengthen domestic food production, improve supply chain resilience and support the National Food Security Strategy 2051. Read more
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Microgreens Market Set For A Major Boost
The global microgreens market was estimated to be $2.59 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of their nutritional benefits, rising demand for premium food products, and the popularity of urban and indoor farming techniques Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are harvested just a few weeks after germination, usually when they are about 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) tall. Microgreens are known for their intense flavours and concentrated nutrient content, making them a popular addition to dishes for both their taste and health benefits. As the world increasingly embraces the health benefits of microgreens, UNS Vertical Farms stands at the forefront of this green revolution, offering one of the most diverse selections of sustainably grown microgreens in the UAE. Located in Al Quoz, Dubai, UNS Vertical Farms, a division of Speedex Group and a pioneer in vertical farming in the UAE since 2018 provides fresh, nutrient-packed microgreens that elevate meals into nutritional powerhouses while promoting sustainable agriculture. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential micronutrients, microgreens are celebrated for their potential to fight inflammation, combat obesity, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Studies particularly highlight the antioxidant properties of microgreens from the Brassicaceae family such as broccoli, cabbage, arugula, and radish for their ability to support weight management, cholesterol reduction, and improved overall health and are highly recommended by Doctors and nutritionists. Speaking about the company's mission, Mehlam Murtaza, Executive Director of UNS Vertical Farms, said “Microgreens are a promising addition to a healthy lifestyle. At UNS, we cultivate over 45 varieties of microgreens using sustainable vertical farming practices in the heart of Dubai. Our dedication to freshness ensures that our microgreens are harvested and delivered within 48 hours, offering a superior product full of nutrients and flavor. These tiny greens are taking UAE by storm and are not just health boosters-they're culinary stars that enhance any dish with vibrant colors, unique flavors, and unmatched freshness.” UNS Vertical Farms remains committed to sustainability. By growing locally in Dubai, they minimize their environmental impact, reduce food miles, and ensure the freshest produce possible. Read more
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New Farm In Al Ain To Produce 150,000 Kgs of Fresh Tomatoes Using Latest Tech Tools
Al Ain — The UAE continues to lead by example in strengthening its focus on local food production, in line with its long-term vision for food security and self-sufficiency. Supporting this national priority, a new high-tech tomato farm has been launched by UNS Vertical Farms in Al Ain, further reinforcing the country’s push towards sustainable, homegrown agriculture. Developed by UNS Vertical Farms, part of the UAE-based Speedex Group, the newly opened 10,000-square-metre facility is designed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes annually, contributing to a more consistent supply of locally grown produce. The initiative reflects a broader shift towards resilient, high-quality agricultural solutions that ensure freshness, flavour, and year-round availability, while catering to evolving demand across both households and the HORECA sector. UNS Vertical Farms proudly supports the UAE’s strategic objectives by employing advanced controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) technologies, combining hydroponics with IoT, AI, and data-driven systems to create a highly efficient, sustainable, and precision-controlled farming environment. Advanced sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, CO₂ levels, lighting, and nutrient delivery, while centralised control systems integrate climate control, irrigation cycles, airflow, and evaporative cooling into a single automated platform. This fully integrated approach ensures every variable is finely tuned to maximise efficiency, improve yields, minimise waste, and deliver consistently high-quality produce to the nation. The farm cultivates a carefully curated selection of premium tomato varieties, including cherry and bunch tomatoes, all of which are non-GMO and free from pesticides and herbicides. Unlike imported produce, which is often optimised for long-distance transit, UNS Farms focuses on delivering superior taste, quality, and freshness tailored to the needs of UAE consumers. A key differentiator is its direct-to-consumer (D2C) model, allowing customers to order fresh produce via www.unsfarms.com. Its efficient supply chain ensures that produce reaches shelves and customers—including retail and HORECA channels—within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, preserving freshness and minimising waste. “Food security today goes beyond availability; it is about building a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready UAE food ecosystem,” said Mehlam Murtaza, Director of UNS Vertical Farms. “This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE’s national vision by delivering consistent, high-quality produce grown locally with precision and care.” More than just an agricultural facility, UNS Farms exemplifies how technology is reshaping food production across the UAE. It operates independently of seasons and extreme weather, overcoming the limitations of traditional farming in the region’s arid climate. Its advanced systems reduce water consumption by up to 90 per cent, making it a highly sustainable, UAE-aligned model for modern agriculture. Initiatives like this strengthen local supply chains, enhance food quality, and ensure the consistent availability of fresh produce for people across the UAE. With more than three decades of presence, the Speedex Group continues to grow hand in hand with the UAE. UNS Vertical Farms highlights the private sector’s expanding role in advancing national priorities, including the UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051 and Net Zero 2050 goals. Through innovation, sustainability, and local investment, the farm embodies a forward-looking vision for a self-sufficient, resilient, and future-ready food ecosystem in the UAE. Read more
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Opening of A New Tomato Farm In Al Ain To Produce 150,000 Kgs of Fresh Tomatoes Annually, Boosting Local Production In The UAE
Al Ain, United Arab Emirates At a time when global supply chains continue to face challenges, the UAE continues to lead by example by focusing on enhancing local food production, in line with its long-term strategic vision for food security and self-sufficiency. In support of this national priority, Anas Vertical Farms, a subsidiary of the Speedex Group, has launched a new tomato farm with advanced technologies in Al Ain, reinforcing the country's drive towards sustainable agriculture and local production. The new facility, which spans an area of 10,000 square meters, has been developed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes per year, contributing to the stability of the supply of locally grown produce. The initiative reflects a broader trend towards resilient and high-quality agricultural solutions, ensuring the availability of fresh produce throughout the year, to meet the growing demand from individuals and the hospitality sector. The project is in line with the UAE's strategic objectives, especially in light of the growing trend of countries towards enhancing food resilience and local production. Anas Vertical Farms is proud to support these goals by employing cutting-edge technology in Controlled Environment Farming (CEA) technologies, combining hydroponics, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, as well as data analytics systems, to create an accurate and highly efficient farming environment. Advanced sensors monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, and lighting Continuously nourishing plants, while centralized control systems integrally manage climate, irrigation, ventilation and evaporative cooling, ensuring the highest levels of production and quality while minimizing waste. The farm produces a selection of high-quality tomato varieties, including cherry tomatoes and cluster tomatoes, all of which are non-GMO and pesticide and herbicide free. Unlike imported products that are grown to withstand long-distance transportation, UNS Farms focuses on providing products with higher taste and quality that are suitable for the consumer in the UAE. The company also adopts a direct-to-consumer (D2C) model, where customers can order fresh produce through its website www.unsfarms.com, in addition to an efficient supply chain that ensures that products reach stores, customers and the hospitality sector within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, preserving their freshness and reducing waste. "Today's food security is not just about the availability of food, but also about building a sustainable and future-resilient food system. This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE's vision by providing high-quality local products that are carefully grown and cared." Anas Vertical Farms is a role model in employing technology to reshape the UAE's food production sector. They operate independently of extreme seasons and weather conditions, overcoming the challenges of traditional farming in desert climates. Its advanced systems contribute to water conservation by up to 90%, making it a sustainable model that is compatible with the country's trends in modern agriculture. Such initiatives contribute to strengthening local supply chains, improving food quality, and ensuring the continuous availability of fresh produce to the country's population. Read more
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Inauguration of A New Tomato Farm In Al Ain To Produce 150,000 Kilograms Per Year
At a time when global supply chains continue to face challenges, the UAE continues to set a role model by focusing on boosting local food production, in line with its long-term strategic vision for food security and self-sufficiency. In support of this national priority, UNS Vertical Farms, a subsidiary of Speedex Group, has launched a new high-tech tomato farm in Al Ain, reinforcing the country's drive towards sustainable agriculture and local production, and the new facility, which spans an area of 10,000 square meters, has been developed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes per year, contributing to the stability of the supply of locally grown products. The initiative reflects a broader trend towards resilient and high-quality agricultural solutions, ensuring the availability of fresh produce throughout the year, to meet the growing demand from individuals and the hospitality sector. The project is in line with the UAE's strategic objectives, especially in light of the growing trend of countries towards enhancing food resilience and local production. Anas Vertical Farms is proud to support these goals by employing cutting-edge technology in Controlled Environments (CEA) farming technologies, combining hydroponics, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, as well as data analytics systems, to create an accurate and highly efficient farming environment. Advanced sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, lighting, and plant nutrition, while centralized control systems manage climate, irrigation, ventilation, and cooling. Read more
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Opening Of A New Tomato Farm In Al Ain To Produce 150,000 Kilograms of Fresh Tomatoes Annually, Boosting Local Production In The UAE
Al Ain, United Arab Emirates At a time when global supply chains continue to face challenges, the UAE continues to lead by example by focusing on enhancing local food production, in line with its long-term strategic vision for food security and self-sufficiency. In support of this national priority, Anas Vertical Farms, a subsidiary of the Speedex Group, has launched a new tomato farm with advanced technologies in Al Ain, reinforcing the country's drive towards sustainable agriculture and local production. The new facility, which spans an area of 10,000 square meters, has been developed to produce approximately 150,000 kilograms of fresh tomatoes per year, contributing to the stability of the supply of locally grown produce. The initiative reflects a broader trend towards resilient and high-quality agricultural solutions, ensuring the availability of fresh produce throughout the year, to meet the growing demand from individuals and the hospitality sector. The project is in line with the UAE's strategic objectives, especially in light of the growing trend of countries towards enhancing food resilience and local production. Anas Vertical Farms is proud to support these goals by employing cutting-edge technology in Controlled Environment Farming (CEA) technologies, combining hydroponics, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, as well as data analytics systems, to create an accurate and highly efficient farming environment. Advanced sensors monitor temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, and lighting Continuously nourishing plants, while centralized control systems integrally manage climate, irrigation, ventilation and evaporative cooling, ensuring the highest levels of production and quality while minimizing waste. The farm produces a selection of high-quality tomato varieties, including cherry tomatoes and cluster tomatoes, all of which are non-GMO and pesticide and herbicide free. Unlike imported products that are grown to withstand long-distance transportation, UNS Farms focuses on providing products with higher taste and quality that are suitable for the consumer in the UAE. The company also adopts a direct-to-consumer (D2C) model, where customers can order fresh produce through its website www.unsfarms.com, in addition to an efficient supply chain that ensures that products reach stores, customers and the hospitality sector within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, preserving their freshness and reducing waste. "Today's food security is not just about the availability of food, but also about building a sustainable and future-resilient food system. This facility reflects our commitment to supporting the UAE's vision by providing high-quality local products that are carefully grown and cared." Anas Vertical Farms is a role model in employing technology to reshape the UAE's food production sector. They operate independently of extreme seasons and weather conditions, overcoming the challenges of traditional farming in desert climates. Its advanced systems contribute to water conservation by up to 90%, making it a sustainable model that is compatible with the country's trends in modern agriculture. Such initiatives contribute to strengthening local supply chains, improving food quality, and ensuring the continuous availability of fresh produce to the country's population. Read more
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