Recently, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, signed a significant decision to approve 74 new economic activities that can be conducted on agricultural lands. This landmark decision aims to enhance agricultural productivity and diversify the economic potential of farms in the UAE, bringing the total number of approved activities to 145.
Overview of the New Economic Activities
The new regulation, issued as Decision No. (5) of 2025, modifies the previously established Decision No. (3) of 2023, expanding the range of permissible economic activities on farms. Under Article (2) of the new decision, 74 new economic activities are incorporated, categorizing them into six distinct groups. This includes 41 activities related to plant production, 9 supporting activities for plant production, 8 food-related support activities, 12 industrial supportive activities, 2 supporting activities, and 2 recreational activities.
Changes to Regulatory Conditions
Article (1) details important modifications to the existing regulations. Specifically, it revises Clause 2 of Article (5) of Decision No. (3) of 2023, stating that “the building area utilized for conducting economic activities must not exceed the area designated by the relevant authorities in the emirate.” Furthermore, Clause 3 is updated to allow farm owners or licensed facilities in Abu Dhabi to engage in economic activities on their farms, provided they align with the designated purposes of the farm.
Reinforcing Economic Diversification
Dr. Tarek Ahmed Al Ameri, acting Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, emphasized that this decision is part of ongoing efforts led by the Economic Activities Committee in farms. This committee, formed under the directives of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office, collaborates with various governmental entities to enhance the utility of farms and expand their economic activities.
Strengthening Food Security and Tourism
Dr. Al Ameri mentioned that the decision underscores the support from leadership and aligns with the authority’s strategy to broaden the range of economic activities on farms. This initiative not only aims to bolster food security but also enhances local plant and animal production, along with supporting agricultural tourism through approved recreational activities. He also indicated that the authority works closely with relevant governmental bodies to ensure compliance and effectiveness in achieving the desired results.
Success of Previous Regulations
The previous regulation, Decision No. (3) of 2023, has already benefited 482 farms, with 333 newly licensed for diverse economic activities and 120 farms adjusting their existing licenses. Additionally, permits for 29 farms to operate vacation homes have been granted, marking a significant step forward in the agricultural and recreational investment landscape.
Government agencies continue to make substantial efforts to streamline the processes related to regulation, licensing, classification, monitoring, and inspection. This ongoing support is crucial to ensure the sustainability and comprehensive development of the agricultural sector in Abu Dhabi.