Thanks to the Guidance and Support of Mohammed bin Zayed: Significant Growth in Agriculture and Food Production Sustainability
In line with a strategic vision aimed at enhancing sustainable development, the agriculture sector in the United Arab Emirates has undergone radical transformations thanks to the guidance and support of Mohammed bin Zayed. Agricultural and heritage festivals, such as the Liwa Date Festival, embody this trend, contributing to significant growth in agriculture and the sustainability of food production. This event reflects the importance of the date palm as a cultural and heritage symbol while also enhancing food security in the country.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed’s Tour at the Liwa Date Festival
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, visited the 21st Liwa Date Festival, held in Liwa, Al Dhafra region. Under his patronage, this festival is one of the most significant agricultural and heritage events in the country.
During the tour, His Highness was briefed on several government and private pavilions showcasing agricultural innovations. He also listened to explanations about the festival and its various competitions, highlighting the social and economic value of the date palm. He affirmed that “the agriculture and food production sector is experiencing significant growth thanks to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his continuous support to ensure the sustainability of food production and enhance food security.”
Enhancing National Identity Through Agriculture
His Highness noted that the Liwa Festival embodies the citizen’s connection to the land and enhances national identity by celebrating the date palm. He emphasized that supporting local agriculture and empowering farmers contribute to achieving sustainable development. “Empowering farmers helps achieve balanced economic distribution, aligning with the national direction towards food self-sufficiency,” he added.
The festival stimulates economic activity in the Al Dhafra region, attracting thousands of visitors each year and bringing together farmers, experts, and pioneers in the agricultural fields, thereby enhancing the agricultural sector’s status as a vital component of the national economy.
The Cultural and Social Dimension of the Festival
The Liwa Date Festival features numerous competitions with prizes exceeding 8.7 million dirhams. The festival includes heritage activities aimed at preserving the legacy of the date palm and strengthening family and community ties. The festival achieves community goals by encouraging cooperation and belonging among different generations.
The traditional market provides an opportunity for community members to showcase and sell their products, including dates and date palm products, thus supporting productive families in the region. This event combines daily activities, including competitions and cultural performances, creating a rich environment for interaction between visitors and farmers.
Official Visits and Ongoing Events
Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan also visited the Liwa Festival, where he explored the participating pavilions and highlighted key events. As part of the festival, various competitions and lectures are organized to enhance knowledge and creativity among farmers and visitors. The spotlight on cultural heritage further elevates the festival’s significance as a practice of economic and social importance in the community.
The festival remains a living embodiment of the future vision and efforts made to support agriculture and the sustainability of food production in the UAE, thanks to the guidance and support of Mohammed bin Zayed.