Key Takeaways:
- The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has detailed new regulations permitting 71 economic activities on agricultural lands.
- Aiming to support the tourism sector and sustainable agricultural development, this move aligns with ADAFSA’s strategic objectives.
- Specific conditions for engaging in plant and animal production activities ensure environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
- The initiative encourages diversification, enhancing food security and economic growth in Abu Dhabi.
ADAFSA’s Regulatory Update
The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) recently updated its regulatory framework concerning agricultural lands. Through Board of Directors Resolution No. (3) of 2023, ADAFSA has expanded the scope of permissible economic activities on farms to include 71 different ventures. Hamid Ali Al Shamsi, Director of the Policies and Regulatory Affairs Division at ADAFSA, clarified that this decision aims to enrich the tourism sector and buttress the agricultural sector in its various dimensions.
Strategic Objectives and Benefits
“The resolution supports establishing licensed activities that are economically feasible on farms,” Al Shamsi explained. He highlighted that this approach not only fosters agricultural sustainability but also propels ADAFSA’s goals towards ensuring food security and contributing to the economic development of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Licensing Conditions and Requirements
For plant-based economic activities, Al Shamsi specified that farms must allocate a minimum of 25 percent of their area to cultivation, adhering to set space requirements for different types of crops. In situations where water scarcity or high salinity levels challenge plant production, the regulations allow for various animal husbandry activities, contingent upon ADAFSA’s approval.
Application Process and Compliance
ADAFSA underscores the importance of complying with all existing legislation for carrying out agricultural and economic activities on farms. License applications are to be submitted through the Abu Dhabi Government Services Platform, TAMM, streamlining the process for farm owners to diversify their operations legally and sustainably.
Collaborative Framework for Regulation Development
The decision emanates from concerted efforts by a dedicated committee to identify viable economic activities for agricultural lands. This committee, operating under the guidance of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office and comprised of representatives from multiple Abu Dhabi departments, aimed to enhance the utilization of agricultural land, offering farms as a viable investment and recreational entities.
Photo by Saj Shafique on Unsplash
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