In the presence of H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Al Rostamani Group has inaugurated three advanced agricultural facilities at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai. The launch marks the completion of a multi-year collaboration focused on boosting sustainable agriculture, scientific innovation and capacity-building across the UAE.
The ceremony was attended by H.E. Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of Al Rostamani Group; H.E. Hassan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Vice-Chairman; and H.E. Dr. Tarifa Ajeif Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA, alongside senior figures from government bodies, academia, research institutions and international partners.
This milestone follows a partnership that began in November 2023 when Al Rostamani Group funded the expansion of ICBA’s training programmes designed for farmers, researchers and young professionals. The initiative progressed in October 2024 with the laying of the foundation stone for the new facility complex, fully financed by Al Rostamani Group as part of its community-oriented commitments.
H.E. Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of Al Rostamani Group, said: “It is with immense pride that our support and collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and ICBA have reached this significant milestone: the inauguration of the new ICBA facilities. These facilities are pivotal to advancing the UAE’s strategic objectives in environmental and agricultural sustainability. The Al Rostamani Group’s funding initiative is driven by our deep commitment to social responsibility and our firm belief in the impactful results of such projects. We view such collaboration as fundamental to Al Rostamani Group’s endeavors in sustainability, innovation, education, and environmental preservation.
H.E. added: “We take great stride in being part of these significant strategic projects, as our cooperation seeks to advance our nation’s vision for environmental sustainability and food security by utilizing cutting-edge research and technology for the benefit of future generations.”
The three newly launched facilities mark a major advancement in the UAE’s agricultural research capacity. The Training and Knowledge Transfer Building can host up to 300 participants for workshops, seminars and hands-on practical sessions aimed at farmers, policy advisers and researchers.
The Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory offers sophisticated capabilities for studying and propagating key plant species such as date palms and mangroves, using advanced technologies that support genetic enhancement and the protection of biodiversity.
The Integrated Agri-Aquaculture System enables applied research in sustainable food production and efficient water use, providing operational models specifically suited to the UAE’s arid and saline conditions. Combined, the facilities create a complete ecosystem for learning, innovation and applied research, strengthening national expertise in climate-resilient agriculture, water-efficient practices and sustainable food systems.
This collaboration forms part of Al Rostamani Group’s broader commitment to supporting impactful national initiatives that contribute to the UAE’s long-term goals for sustainability, environmental stewardship and food security. The Group continues to prioritise projects that advance scientific knowledge, develop local talent and support community growth, guided by its core values of Commitment, Care and Vision.