Agriculture and Fisheries 

for more information, visit Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries

Although highly arid, the United Arab Emirates has been able to develop a thriving agricultural industry. Despite rapid population growth, it is now self-sufficient in some vegetable crops throughout the year. Small-scale farming based upon exploitation of underground water resources began in desert oases and mountain valleys at least 5000 years ago, but the lack of rainfall made large scale agriculture impossible.

Now, modern irrigation techniques and water from deep artesian aquifers and from desalination has made it possible for large areas to be cultivated. There are now more than 100,000 hectares of cultivated land, producing a range of crops, including salad vegetables, potatoes, fruit and fodder, as well as flowers, grown mainly for export to Europe. In traditional mountain farms, production of tropical fruits like papaya and citrus as well as tobacco continues. The Government supports agriculture through preparation of land for farms which are distributed free to citizens, and follows this up with a free agricultural extension service. Farmers are also offered a guaranteed price for produce and subsidized machinery and fertilizers.