Food security is a significant concern in the Middle East due to climate change and water scarcity. The region’s dependence on food imports leaves it vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, which can lead to food shortages and price hikes. To tackle it, AeroFarms AgX has launched an indoor vertical farm in Abu Dhabi, supported by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO). 

Covering more than 65,000 square feet, the facility is the largest indoor vertical farm worldwide for research and development. 

It employs over 60 experts to research organoleptic qualities, precision phenotyping, phytochemical analysis, machine vision, machine learning, robotics, and automation. 

AeroFarms AgX aims to collaborate with local companies and universities in Abu Dhabi to address agricultural issues in arid and desert climates and improve vegetable and fruit varieties’ genetics and seedling quality.

According to a press statement, the partnership will focus on evaluating and testing crops that have large consumer demand.

Last year, Bustanica launched the world’s largest hydroponic farm in Dubai, backed by an investment of $40m. The 330,000-square-foot facility was a joint venture between Emirates Flight Catering and Boston-based company Crop One.