Abu Dhabi strengthens agricultural heritage with new date palm documentation project

The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority (ADHA) has launched a new initiative to scientifically document emerging date palm varieties, aiming to protect intellectual property rights, preserve agricultural heritage, and support sustainability.

Announced during the 22nd Liwa Dates Festival, the “Documentation of New Date Palm Varieties” project is being launched under the slogan: “Scientific Documentation… Protecting Rights… Supporting Sustainability.”

The initiative aims to establish an official framework for recognizing and cataloging newly developed date palm varieties, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage while encouraging innovation in one of the country’s most culturally significant sectors.

Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, said the project reflects the UAE leadership’s continued support for agriculture and the date palm, which remains central to the country’s identity and heritage.

“The launch of the project reflects the wise vision and unwavering support of the UAE’s leadership for the agricultural sector, particularly the blessed date palm tree, which represents a cornerstone of the United Arab Emirates’ national identity and cultural heritage.”

Al Mazrouei added that documenting new date palm varieties would help establish unified scientific standards, support the development of the agricultural heritage sector, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in heritage sustainability and agricultural innovation.

Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, said the project also recognizes farmers’ contributions to crop innovation.

“The project celebrates farmers’ innovations by officially recognizing and cataloging new date palm varieties according to specific standards and requirements. This will help preserve the UAE’s rich agricultural heritage and ensure it is passed on to future generations as a distinctive Emirati product.”