Dubai: Veggies and fruits from world’s largest vertical farm will soon be available in stores

Dubai: Veggies and fruits from world’s largest vertical farm will soon be available in stores

Due to the carefully controlled process in which they are grown, it's recommended not to wash these leafy greens before use

Published: Tue 9 Aug 2022, 9:48 PM

The future of agriculture is amidst us here in the UAE. The world's largest vertical farm in the UAE is promising to deliver one million kilograms of green leafy vegetables a year, with the plants going from seed to harvest in just six weeks while utilising 95% less water than traditional farming methods.

The farm that began operation earlier this year utilises the hydroponics method of cultivation and currently grows spinach, kale, arugula and four varieties of lettuce, namely Romaine, Ruby Sky, Lalique and Batavia.

It is recommended not to wash these leafy greens before use due to the non-contaminated, carefully controlled process in which they are grown. The harvested produce from this facility is expected to be available in retail outlets by the end of this month.

Emirates Bustanica vertical farm in Dubai South. Photo by Rahul Gajjar

Located near Dubai World Central, Al Maktoum International Airport, the venture is a milestone for the UAE and was toured by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum last month. Bustanica, which means your orchard in Arabic, is