UAEU Collaborates with University of Al Dhaid and Sharjah’s Department of Agriculture and Livestock to Launch a Sustainable Wheat Production Research Project

The United Arab Emirates University conducted a visit to the wheat farm in Milehah, Sharjah, in collaboration with the University of Al Dhaid. This visit is part of national efforts by universities to enhance food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the UAE.

The visit brought together deans of colleges, directors, researchers, and experts from both institutions. Participants explored the capabilities of the Milehah research farm laboratories and witnessed modern agricultural practices in wheat production.

Following the field visit, the UAEU delegation visited the University of Al Dhaid, where both sides explored opportunities for mutual cooperation. The visit also marked the launch of a joint research project aimed at developing innovative technologies for sustainable wheat production — particularly in response to climate change and the biotic and abiotic challenges facing this vital sector.

The project will focus on studying wheat varieties best suited to the local environment and developing smart agriculture practices that reduce water consumption and enhance crop resilience under harsh environmental conditions.

H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, emphasized that the research initiative aligns with the university’s vision to support applied research that addresses national priorities. He stressed the importance of local partnerships in achieving self-sufficiency in strategic crops.

“Through this collaboration, UAEU aims to leverage its research and scientific expertise to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for food security, in line with the country's directives in addressing climate change. We highly value this partnership with the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock and the University of Al Dhaid. We believe in the importance of uniting national efforts to develop an advanced agricultural system that supports food security,” said H.E. Prof. Al Raeesi.

Prof. Aisha Abu Shlaibi, Chancellor of the University of Al Dhaid, expressed her pride in this strategic partnership with UAEU and the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock. She stated that the initiative aims to enhance food security, ensure food safety, and achieve self-sufficiency in agricultural production, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, and President of the University of Al Dhaid – may Allah bless him.

“This collaboration highlights the importance of collective efforts to find effective solutions that support food security strategies, strengthen the agricultural sector, and increase reliance on local production — ultimately serving the national interest and the wellbeing of residents,” said Prof. Abu Shlaibi.

H.E. Salim Abdellah Al Kabi, Director of Sharjah’s Department of Agriculture and Livestock, noted that the visit by academic institutions to the Milehah wheat farm reflects the emirate’s openness to scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange. He emphasized the role of such visits in showcasing Sharjah’s experience in wheat breeding and research.

“The Department’s efforts to enhance Sharjah’s organic, sustainable food security system and to continue advancing the agricultural and livestock production sectors reflect the unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi,” said H.E. Al Kabi. “His Highness’s commitment to supporting research based on modern technologies contributes to the development of innovative solutions, sustainable food strategies, and the protection of this vital sector — ultimately leading to self-sufficiency.”

He added that this visit is an important step toward building strategic partnerships between academic institutions and agricultural stakeholders. These partnerships are essential for knowledge transfer and the practical application of scientific research to serve sustainable agricultural development in the UAE.