Omar Al Jundi revolutionized farming in the Middle East, a region over-dependent on imported produce, when he built the region’s first vertical farm in Dubai about six years ago. Founder and CEO of Badia Farms, Al Jundi has pioneered using energy-efficient farming methods to solve regional food insecurity and transform the agriculture industry. One of the most important factors about Badia Farms is that the farming method is sustainable, saving up to 90% water compared to traditional farming.

The farm uses hydroponics technology and recycled water to sustainably grow fresh produce year-round and provide fresh fruits and vegetables to restaurants and caterers. Al Jundi has been tackling an issue that makes a difference to society while preserving natural resources such as water and providing fresh produce all year round; he has taken the lead in solving the problem of agriculture in the region through modern farming.