Vertical Farming in the UAE

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I. Executive Summary

Vertical farming represents a paradigm shift in agricultural practices, moving away from traditional land-intensive methods to a system that maximizes crop yields within a minimal footprint. At its core, vertical farming involves cultivating plants in vertically stacked layers, often utilizing innovative techniques such as hydroponics (growing plants in nutrient-rich water solutions without soil), aeroponics (growing plants with their roots suspended in the air and misted with nutrient solutions), or aquaponics (combining aquaculture and hydroponics in a symbiotic environment).5 These controlled environment agriculture (CEA) systems meticulously regulate factors like temperature, humidity, light, and nutrients, creating optimal growing conditions year-round, irrespective of external weather patterns.5

Vertical Farming in the UAE

The global landscape of agriculture is increasingly focused on sustainability and the development of innovative farming techniques to feed a growing world population while minimizing environmental impact.20 In this context, vertical farming holds particular significance for the UAE. Characterized by its arid desert climate and limited availability of arable land, the UAE has historically faced substantial challenges in achieving food self-sufficiency, leading to a high reliance on food imports.20 This dependence underscores the strategic importance of exploring and adopting alternative food production methods that can thrive in the region’s challenging conditions.20

The UAE has placed a strong national emphasis on enhancing food security and achieving greater self-sufficiency in food production, recognizing it as a critical component of its overall development goals.20 Vertical farming aligns perfectly with this national agenda, offering a pathway to increase local food production, conserve precious water resources, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.20 Several key drivers are fueling the rapid adoption of vertical farming in the UAE, including significant advancements in agricultural technology, proactive government support through various initiatives and funding programs, and a discernible shift in consumer preferences towards fresh, locally grown, and sustainably produced food.20

II. Investments and Funding in UAE Vertical Farming

The vertical farming sector in the UAE has witnessed a significant influx of investments, reflecting its growing prominence and potential. This funding comes from various sources, including venture capital, government initiatives, and strategic joint ventures.

Venture capital plays a crucial role in providing the necessary financial backing for vertical farming startups in the UAE, enabling them to scale their operations and implement innovative technologies.4 Globally, venture capitalists have poured substantial sums into the vertical farming industry, with one report noting over $1.5 billion invested worldwide.4 This global trend indicates a strong belief in the potential of vertical farming to transform food production and suggests the availability of capital for promising ventures in the UAE. However, it is also important to note that data from PitchBook suggests a decline in funding for indoor farming after a peak in 2021, indicating a possible market recalibration or more stringent evaluation of investment opportunities.22

The UAE government has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting the growth of vertical farming through a range of initiatives and funding programs.5 A key objective is to locally produce 30% of the nation’s fresh food consumption by 2030, with financial support from programs like the Khalifa Fund, which offers grants and electricity subsidies to make local production more economically viable.5 The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has also been instrumental in fostering the agritech sector, including vertical farming, through significant investments. In 2020, ADIO invested $100 million in four agritech companies, several of which are involved in vertical farming, demonstrating the government’s early and substantial financial backing.17 These government-led initiatives, such as Dubai’s Food Tech Valley and Abu Dhabi’s AgTech Park, provide essential infrastructure, resources, and financial incentives for new vertical farming businesses.23

Several major investment deals and strategic joint ventures have further propelled the growth of vertical farming in the UAE. A notable example is the partnership between Plenty Unlimited Inc., a US-based vertical farming technology company, and Mawarid Holding Investment, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi’s Alpha Dhabi Holding. This joint venture involves a massive $680 million investment to develop a network of indoor vertical farms across the Middle East, with an initial combined investment of $130 million allocated for the construction of a state-of-the-art farm in Abu Dhabi.1 This farm aims to produce over 2 million kilograms of strawberries annually, catering to both local consumption and export within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.1 Another significant development is the partnership between Scotland-based Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) and Dubai-based ReFarm Global to build a giant 900,000-square-foot vertical farm in Dubai, backed by a £22.5 million investment.21 These substantial investments and collaborations underscore the strong confidence in the future of vertical farming in the UAE and the wider region.

CompanyInvestment AmountSource of FundingDateFocus /Technology
Plenty & Mawarid JV$680 millionJoint Venture (Plenty Unlimited & Mawarid Holding)July 2024Strawberries, Vertical Farming
IGS & ReFarm Global£22.5 millionSeries C Equity RoundJan 2024Leafy Greens, Waste Recycling
ADIO Investment in Agritech$100 millionAbu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO)April 2020Various (including VF)

The robust government support acts as a significant catalyst, attracting both local and international private investment into the UAE’s vertical farming sector. The focus on food security as a national priority translates into concrete financial commitments and the creation of a supportive ecosystem for vertical farming businesses.

III. Leading Vertical Farming Companies in the UAE

The UAE’s vertical farming landscape is populated by a diverse range of companies, from local startups to established international players, all contributing to the sector’s rapid growth and innovation.

Several prominent local companies are making significant strides in the UAE’s vertical farming market. Pure Harvest Smart Farms, based in Abu Dhabi, utilizes advanced greenhouse technologies and vertical farming techniques to produce a variety of crops, including tomatoes, leafy greens, and berries, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.27 Madar Farms, located in Dubai, specializes in operating shipping container-based indoor hydroponic farms, focusing on efficient space utilization and resource management.29 CRYSP Farms, also based in Dubai, offers a unique “farming-as-a-service” model, providing customized vertical farms to hotels and resorts, growing over 130 varieties of fresh produce on-site.4 Badia Farms, headquartered in Dubai, focuses on hydroponic technology to cultivate fresh produce, including microgreens and herbs, supplying to top restaurants and hotels.19 VeggiTech, based in Sharjah, utilizes protected hydroponics and grow lights-assisted hydroponics to address challenges related to soil, temperature, and water, even cultivating high-value crops like saffron.32 UNS Vertical Farms, located in Dubai, focuses on producing salad mixes, herbs, microgreens, and edible flowers using vertical farming technology.34

The UAE has also attracted several leading international vertical farming companies that have established operations in the region, bringing with them advanced technologies and global expertise. AeroFarms, a US-based pioneer in indoor vertical farming, has launched a significant R&D facility, AeroFarms AgX, in Abu Dhabi, which is the world’s largest indoor vertical farm of its kind, focusing on innovation and developing solutions for arid and desert environments.5 Crop One Holdings, in partnership with Emirates Flight Catering, operates Bustanica, the world’s largest vertical hydroponic farm in Dubai, producing over 1 million kilograms of leafy greens annually for Emirates Airlines and the retail market.35 iFarm, a technology development company originally from Finland, has established a presence in the UAE, offering automated vertical farming solutions for growing salads, herbs, and microgreens, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and sustainability.37 Plenty Unlimited Inc., while primarily known for its US operations, has entered the UAE market through its major joint venture with Mawarid Holding, focusing initially on large-scale strawberry production.1 Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), a UK-based vertical farming technology provider, is partnering with ReFarm Global on the ambitious GigaFarm project in Dubai, integrating its advanced vertical farming technology into a circular waste-to-value ecosystem.39

These companies employ a range of technologies, including various hydroponic systems, aeroponics, and aquaponics, to cultivate a diverse selection of crops, from leafy greens and herbs to strawberries and even saffron.9 Their scale of operations varies, with some focusing on supplying local markets and the hospitality sector, while others, like Bustanica, operate at a massive industrial scale.9 Notably, some companies have developed unique business models, such as Crysp Farms’ “farming-as-a-service,” which allows hotels to grow their own produce on-site, tailored to their specific needs.4

The UAE’s vertical farming landscape showcases a dynamic and competitive market with a blend of established local expertise and ambitious international innovation. The variety in the origins and specializations of these companies indicates a maturing sector catering to diverse needs and exploring a wide range of crop possibilities.

The vertical farming sector in the UAE is characterized by several key trends that are driving its evolution and shaping its future.

Technological advancements are at the forefront of this transformation. Hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics remain the dominant soilless cultivation techniques, offering significant advantages in water-scarce regions like the UAE.5 Energy-efficient LED lighting is increasingly being adopted to simulate sunlight, enabling controlled plant growth with lower energy consumption, which is a crucial factor in managing operational costs.3 Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are playing an ever-growing role in optimizing vertical farm operations, with AI-powered systems monitoring and adjusting environmental conditions, managing irrigation and nutrient delivery, and even assisting with harvesting, leading to improved efficiency and yields.3 Advancements in sensor technology and data analytics provide valuable real-time insights into crop performance, allowing farmers to make data-driven decisions and further refine their cultivation practices.20

Another significant trend is the increasing diversification of crops grown in UAE’s vertical farms. While the initial focus was primarily on leafy greens and herbs, there is a growing movement towards cultivating a wider variety of produce, including higher-value crops.19 Successful cultivation of strawberries in vertical farms, as demonstrated by the Plenty-Mawarid joint venture, signifies this shift.1 Additionally, there are even experiments being conducted with more specialized crops like saffron, showcasing the potential for vertical farming to produce a diverse range of agricultural products in the UAE.40

Sustainability remains a core driving force behind the growth of vertical farming in the UAE. There is a strong emphasis on implementing practices that reduce water usage, with vertical farms typically using significantly less water compared to traditional farming methods.18 Efforts are also being made to minimize the reliance on pesticides and herbicides through the controlled environment of vertical farms.18 Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, is gaining traction as a way to further enhance the environmental sustainability of vertical farming operations in the UAE.24

The UAE is also witnessing a notable growth in local food production and consumption, driven by increasing consumer preference for fresher, locally sourced produce.5 Supermarkets and restaurants are increasingly collaborating with local vertical farms to offer farm-to-table options, ensuring freshness and reducing food miles.5 This trend is further supported by government initiatives that encourage local production and promote the benefits of sustainably grown food.5

V. Challenges and Obstacles in the UAE Vertical Farming Sector

Despite its significant potential and rapid growth, the vertical farming sector in the UAE faces several challenges and obstacles that need to be addressed for its continued success and wider adoption.

High operational costs represent a major hurdle. Setting up a vertical farm requires substantial capital investment in infrastructure, technology, and specialized equipment.42 Furthermore, the ongoing operational expenses can be significant, particularly the high energy consumption associated with providing artificial LED lighting and maintaining climate-controlled environments in the hot UAE climate.42 Labor costs also contribute to the overall operational expenses, and there is a need for a skilled workforce with expertise in hydroponics, automation, and controlled environment agriculture, which can sometimes be challenging to find.20

The UAE’s specific climate presents unique challenges for vertical farming. While the controlled environment mitigates some of the harsh external conditions, the need for energy-intensive cooling systems to maintain optimal temperatures inside the farms can significantly impact operational costs.42 Additionally, managing humidity levels within the enclosed spaces is crucial to prevent plant diseases and ensure optimal growth, requiring further energy input and technological solutions.42

Market competition poses another challenge. Vertical farms in the UAE face competition not only from traditional farming methods, which may have lower production costs for certain crops, but also from the influx of imported produce, which can sometimes be more price-competitive.4 Consumer price sensitivity can also be a factor, as vertically farmed produce may sometimes come at a premium compared to conventionally grown or imported alternatives.4

Currently, vertical farms are best suited for growing leafy greens and herbs, and there are limitations on the variety of crops that can be profitably cultivated using this method.19 Expanding the range of commercially viable crops beyond these categories remains an ongoing challenge for the sector.19

VI. Opportunities and Growth Potential for Vertical Farming in the UAE

Vertical farming presents significant opportunities and holds immense growth potential for the UAE, offering solutions to critical national priorities and contributing to a more sustainable future.

One of the most compelling opportunities lies in enhancing food security. By enabling year-round, localized production of fresh produce, vertical farming can significantly reduce the UAE’s reliance on food imports, making the nation less vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties.2 This capability is particularly crucial in the face of increasing global population and potential climate-related impacts on traditional agriculture.1

Vertical farming also aligns strongly with the UAE’s commitment to promoting sustainability. These farms utilize significantly less water compared to conventional agriculture, a critical advantage in a water-scarce region.18 The controlled environment minimizes the need for pesticides and herbicides, leading to cleaner and healthier produce.18 Furthermore, the potential to integrate renewable energy sources like solar power into vertical farm operations offers a pathway to further reduce their environmental footprint.20

The growth of the vertical farming sector presents a valuable opportunity for economic diversification in the UAE, aligning with the nation’s broader vision to move away from a purely oil-based economy.5 By fostering innovation and attracting investment in agritech, the UAE can create new industries and expertise, contributing to long-term economic resilience.24

There is also a significant export potential for vertically farmed produce from the UAE to neighboring GCC countries and potentially further afield, leveraging the region’s strategic location and growing expertise in this field.1 As production scales up and technologies advance, the UAE could become a key regional hub for supplying high-quality, sustainably grown produce.22

Finally, the expansion of the vertical farming sector is expected to create numerous job opportunities in various fields, including agriculture, technology, engineering, and logistics, contributing to the UAE’s human capital development and economic growth.1

VII. Regulatory Framework and Government Support for Vertical Farming in the UAE

The UAE government has established a supportive regulatory framework and implemented various policies and incentives to foster the growth of the vertical farming sector. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) plays a central role in regulating agricultural activities, including vertical farming, and is the primary authority for obtaining agricultural licenses.23

Starting a vertical farming business in the UAE requires obtaining the necessary agricultural licenses and permits. This process involves applying to MOCCAE and registering the business with the local economic department in the chosen emirate, selecting either a commercial license for selling produce or a professional license for providing related services.23 Depending on the specific activities of the vertical farm, additional approvals may be required from authorities such as the Dubai Municipality Food Control Department or the Public Health Services Department.23 Adherence to the UAE’s environmental standards, including regulations on water conservation and the safe use of agricultural chemicals, is also mandatory.23

The government has positioned vertical farming as a critical component of its National Food Security Strategy 2051, which aims to reduce reliance on food imports and build a resilient, sustainable agricultural sector.5 Key initiatives supporting this goal include subsidies, grants, and tax benefits designed to offset the high initial costs associated with vertical farming.5 Programs like Ag-Tech Parks and Dubai’s Food Tech Valley provide dedicated zones for research, development, and innovation in hydroponics, vertical farming, and aquaponics, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for businesses in this sector.5 Furthermore, the government is actively promoting standards for organic and pesticide-free agriculture, aligning with consumer demand for high-quality produce from vertical farms.5

VIII. Mergers and Acquisitions Landscape in the UAE Vertical Farming Market

The vertical farming market in the UAE is witnessing increased activity in mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships as the industry matures and companies seek to consolidate their positions and expand their capabilities.

A significant partnership was formed between UAE’s Crysp Farms and agritech veteran Alesca Technologies, aiming to deploy over 500 modular vertical farms across the Middle East over the next five years.4 This collaboration combines Crysp Farms’ “farming-as-a-service” model with Alesca’s AI-powered monitoring and automation systems to improve the efficiency and productivity of vertical farms.4

Pure Harvest Smart Farms, a leading UAE-based agritech company, acquired RedSea’s existing six-hectare controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) production facility in Saudi Arabia.40 This acquisition allows Pure Harvest to double its production capacity in Saudi Arabia and leverage RedSea’s climate-smart technology solutions, including their heat-blocking greenhouse roof technology.

In a move that signifies the growing maturity of the sector, Emirates Flight Catering, the catering arm of Emirates Airlines, fully acquired Emirates Bustanica, formerly a joint venture with US-based Crop One.49 This acquisition makes Bustanica, the world’s largest indoor vertical farm, a 100% UAE-owned company, further supporting the nation’s food security goals and allowing Emirates Flight Catering to fully integrate its fresh produce supply chain.49

These recent M&A activities and partnerships indicate a trend towards consolidation and strategic alliances within the UAE’s vertical farming market, as companies seek to leverage synergies, expand their geographical reach, and enhance their technological advantages.

IX. Profitability and Financial Performance of Vertical Farms in the UAE

Analyzing the profitability and financial performance of vertical farms in the UAE requires considering various factors, including initial investment, operational costs, revenue streams, and market demand.

The initial setup costs for a vertical farm in the UAE can be substantial, involving expenses for securing a facility (often repurposing warehouses or industrial spaces) and procuring necessary equipment such as vertical racks, hydroponic systems, LED lighting, and climate control technologies.42 One estimate suggests that setting up iFarm Vertical Farm Rack technology can cost approximately AED 3,672 per square meter of growing area.42

Operational expenses are also significant, with energy consumption, primarily for LED lighting and climate control, often accounting for a large portion of the total costs.42 Labor costs, depending on the level of automation, can also be a substantial factor.42 However, the UAE benefits from relatively affordable electricity compared to some other regions, which can help mitigate energy expenses.42 Revenue is generated primarily through the sale of the fresh produce grown in the vertical farms, with potential for premium pricing due to the high quality, local origin, and pesticide-free nature of the products. Some vertical farms may also explore alternative revenue streams, such as generating carbon credits through their sustainable practices.52

Financial performance models suggest promising returns on investment in the UAE’s vertical farming sector. One analysis of a UAE-based farm using iFarm technology projected a monthly revenue of AED 529,000 and an EBITDA of AED 170,139, with the initial investment potentially recovered in around 2.3 years.42 However, payback periods can vary depending on factors such as the technology used, the types of crops grown, and the efficiency of operations.42 Crop selection plays a crucial role in profitability, with high-demand and high-value crops like microgreens and strawberries offering potentially higher profit margins.53

The profitability of vertical farming in the UAE is influenced by a combination of factors, with efficient operation, strategic crop selection, and strong market demand being key determinants of financial success.

X. Market Size and Share of Vertical Farming in the UAE

The vertical farming market in the UAE is experiencing significant growth and holds substantial future potential. Various reports provide different estimations of the market size and growth trajectory, but all indicate a positive outlook.

One report valued the UAE’s vertical farming market at USD 39.2 million in 2024, projecting it to reach USD 47.8 million by 2029, with an annual growth rate of 4.05%.42 Another study estimated the market size at USD 92.4 million in 2024, with a much higher projected growth to USD 358.9 million by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.90%.5 Looking at the broader Middle East and Africa region, the indoor farming sector is forecast to grow to USD 5 billion by 2029.5 Furthermore, one analysis projects the Middle East and Africa vertical farming market to reach USD 801.99 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 14.70% from 2025.40 These varying figures highlight the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the market.

While specific market share data for individual companies in the UAE is not consistently available across all sources, several key players have been identified as leaders in the sector. These include Pure Harvest Smart Farms, Crop One Holdings (Bustanica), Madar Farms, AeroFarms, iFarm, and VeggiTech.40 The market appears to be relatively fragmented, with a mix of local and international companies vying for market share.40 Bustanica, being the world’s largest vertical farm, undoubtedly holds a significant share in terms of production volume, particularly in the leafy greens category.56 Pure Harvest Smart Farms, with its expansion across the UAE and into neighboring countries, is also a major player.58 Madar Farms, as one of the early pioneers in the UAE’s vertical farming scene, maintains a strong presence.29

The vertical farming market in the UAE is characterized by a substantial current valuation and strong growth projections, indicating a sector with significant opportunities for expansion and investment.

XI. Conclusion 

Vertical farming has firmly established itself as a vital and rapidly growing sector within the UAE’s agricultural landscape. Driven by the nation’s strategic focus on enhancing food security, promoting sustainability, and diversifying its economy, vertical farming offers a compelling solution to the challenges posed by the region’s arid climate and limited arable land. The sector has attracted significant investments from both the government and private entities, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of local and international companies that are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to cultivate a diverse range of crops.

The future outlook for vertical farming in the UAE is exceptionally promising. Continued advancements in technology, such as more energy-efficient LED lighting, sophisticated automation and AI systems, and innovative hydroponic and aeroponic techniques, will further enhance the efficiency and productivity of vertical farms. The unwavering support from the UAE government, through strategic policies, dedicated infrastructure like Food Tech Valley and AgTech Parks, and financial incentives, will continue to play a crucial role in driving the sector’s growth. As consumer demand for fresh, locally sourced, and sustainably produced food continues to rise, vertical farms are well-positioned to meet this demand, offering high-quality, pesticide-free produce year-round. While challenges such as high operational costs and the need for skilled labor remain, the opportunities for innovation, economic diversification, and enhanced food security make vertical farming a cornerstone of the UAE’s agricultural future. The increasing number of mergers and acquisitions also signals a maturing market with strong growth potential, solidifying vertical farming’s place as a key contributor to the UAE’s vision of a sustainable and food-secure future.

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