One after the other, new projects keep rolling out in the UAE. Something new has now been in the headlines, Sharjah is working on developing its own variety of wheat. A new biotechnology laboratory is using advanced technology to study different types of wheat, measure plant growth, and analyze genetics.
The lab already has 550 different strains of non-GMO soft wheat, and now, researchers are trying to find the varieties that suit UAE’s climate in the best interest. For now, one of the new varieties is called “Sharjah 1”, which has a high protein content of 19%, marked to be the highest in the world. It also specializes in growing quickly, reports Khaleej Times.
The lab is using new irrigation tools to save water. While they have been able to reduce usage by 30%, they are looking at multiple other options as well, as the UAE is a country with limited water resources.
Dr Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, visited the farm where the new wheat variety was developed. She reportedly praised the farm’s accomplishments and toured its laboratories and offices. This visit aligns with the goals of the “Plant the Emirates” initiative.
The Saba Sanabel project, launched last year, aims to increase wheat production in the UAE, plans to cultivate 1,900 hectares of land and plant 285 tons of wheat seeds. The goal is to produce 15,200 tons of high-quality organic wheat to meet 100% of the emirate’s retail needs.
