The UAE's agricultural development is currently being driven by the need for food security, sustainability, and reduced dependence on imports. Abid Ali Mirani, an expert in both traditional and modern farming techniques, mentions that the last mentioned driver is specifically in the spotlight, and is the reason for also experimenting with a diverse range of crops. Currently serving as the Sustainability Manager at National Plants and soon to become the General Manager at National Plants LLC, he has vast experience in cultivating a diverse range of crops, from mushrooms and saffron to exotic herbs and greenhouse-grown vegetables.
Keeping the approach diverse
He specializes in growing a wide variety of mushrooms, including button, oyster, king oyster, shiitake, lion's mane, and portobello. In addition, he has been involved in one of the UAE's largest saffron farming projects. His expertise extends to hydroponic cultivation of leafy greens such as baby kale and multiple lettuce varieties, as well as herbs like sage, rosemary, and red vein sorrel, grown using advanced cooling systems.
Photo right: Abid Ali Mirani (front right)
"My philosophy is that a farm should integrate multiple techniques, including open-field farming, net houses, greenhouses, and vertical farming. This combination provides flexibility and resilience in the market and versatile climate conditions," he explains. "By growing over 52 different crops, I ensure that my farming operations remain sustainable and adaptable to changing conditions."
Balancing high-tech and low-tech solutions
One of the most significant trends he observes is the growing interest in sustainable farming which includes financial viability. While high-tech solutions like fully automated vertical farms are on the rise, he emphasizes that low-tech options remain effective and cost-efficient.
"In the UAE's winter months, open-field farming and net houses can produce high yields without energy-intensive climate control," he says. "This makes them both profitable and environmentally friendly. At the same time, advanced greenhouse and vertical farming systems are necessary to maintain year-round production."
Mushroom farming, in particular, presents a major opportunity. The UAE currently relies on imported growing bags and substrates from Europe, China, and the U.S., which drives up costs. "If we develop in-house production facilities for mushroom substrates and composting, we can significantly cut costs and enhance profitability," he says. "This is an area with huge potential for local farms."
Local and export market opportunities
His primary market includes grocery stores, supermarkets, restaurants, and food service providers. However, he also sees potential in exporting high-quality, locally grown produce to neighboring GCC countries. "By maintaining a diverse and consistent supply of crops, we can reduce reliance on imports and strengthen food security," he notes. "It's about ensuring that local farms can compete effectively in both domestic and international markets. Our biggest goal is to become self-sufficient in our produce as a country."
Despite advancements, farming in the UAE presents several challenges. "One of the biggest issues is the high cost of energy for climate control in high-tech greenhouses," he explains. "This impacts the viability of certain crops, especially when competing with lower-cost imports from Iran, India, and Pakistan."
According to him, there is also limited expertise in specialized farming areas such as mushroom cultivation. "Most local farms rely on imported growing materials, which adds costs and limits innovation," he says. "Developing local expertise and production facilities can create a more self-sufficient and profitable industry."
Expanding saffron farming in the UAE
He is particularly passionate about saffron farming, which is still in the research and development phase in the UAE. "Saffron cultivation here is challenging due to extreme heat, but using greenhouse and controlled environment techniques, I've been able to grow it successfully across multiple seasons," he explains.
The key challenge in saffron farming is bulb propagation. "Ensuring consistent production requires refining propagation techniques. Right now, there's little government support, and research institutions aren't fully engaged in this area," he says. "However, with the right investment and technology, saffron farming could become a lucrative industry in the UAE."
As he prepares to become the General Manager of National Plants LLC, his focus remains on expanding sustainable and profitable farming practices. "The future of farming in the UAE depends on using a combination of techniques to maximize efficiency," he says. By integrating traditional methods with modern solutions, we can build a resilient agricultural sector that meets local demand while reducing environmental impact."
For more information:
Abid Ali Mirani
+971 55 420 0786
abidalimush249@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/abid-ali-mirani