The UAE (United Arab Emirates) is emerging as a pivotal force driving agricultural progress in the region. Leveraging its vast economic resources and in partnership with global innovators the UAE is addressing its own challenges, while contributing to regional food security and agricultural development.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Africa – the future food basket of the world, where the UAE is positioning itself as a significant agent of change. With a strategic focus on large-scale farmland acquisitions, sustainable water management, and advanced agricultural technologies, the UAE is setting the stage to transform Africa’s agricultural landscape while reinforcing its own ambitious food security strategy.
One of the most compelling examples of this trend is the recent negotiation by Al Dahra, a UAE-based agribusiness giant, with the Kenyan government. Al Dahra is in talks to lease 81,000 hectares of farmland in Kenya while securing critical water rights—a deal that could see investments soar to an estimated USD 800 million. This ambitious project is part of Al Dahra’s broader expansion into East Africa and aligns closely with Kenya’s goals for agricultural modernization and enhanced food security. By integrating advanced irrigation techniques and water-efficient farming practices, Al Dahra aims to boost crop production and support Kenya’s drive to modernize its agricultural infrastructure.
The UAE’s strategy in Africa extends far beyond Kenya. Across the continent and within the broader MENA region, the UAE is actively pursuing opportunities to secure agricultural assets, enhance local food production, and facilitate technology transfer. For decades, the UAE has been involved in numerous land purchase transactions and leasing agreements across Africa. It currently farms nearly 1 million hectares on the continent, with significant projects already underway in countries such as Egypt, Namibia, and Morocco. These investments are crucial not only for diversifying the UAE’s food sources but also for contributing to the agricultural development and economic growth of host nations in Africa and neighboring MENA markets.
African nations, with an estimated 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, present enormous potential for agricultural expansion. However, many of these countries face challenges such as water scarcity, underdeveloped infrastructure, and limited access to modern farming technologies. The UAE’s expertise in overcoming harsh desert conditions—through innovations in desalination, wastewater recycling, and precision irrigation—uniquely positions it to help these nations tackle their agricultural challenges. For instance, Al Dahra’s proven track record in employing water-efficient farming methods can be directly applied to improve irrigation systems and boost productivity in Kenya and beyond.
Moreover, the UAE’s involvement in Africa and the MENA region is not solely about acquiring land; it is also about fostering sustainable development and creating mutually beneficial partnerships. In the East African Community (EAC), Kenya is recognized as a key agricultural hub. A successful agreement with Al Dahra could serve as a blueprint for similar deals across the region, attracting further agribusiness investments from the UAE and other Gulf nations. Such collaborations can lead to the modernization of local agriculture, increased export capacity in sectors like horticulture, floriculture, and cereals, and ultimately, a more resilient food supply chain for Africa and the MENA region.
The economic implications of these investments are substantial. For Kenya, attracting a major investor like Al Dahra not only promises enhanced food production and improved water management but also brings in new technology, capital, and job opportunities. The infusion of investment can drive rural development, support local communities, and stimulate broader economic growth. At the same time, the UAE strengthens its position as a key player in regional food security by reducing its reliance on imports and ensuring that strategic agricultural assets are secured through overseas investments.
This agricultural diplomacy is part of a broader competitive dynamic within the Gulf region. Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are expanding their agribusiness footprints in Africa and the wider MENA region, each seeking to diversify their economies and secure food resources in an era marked by geopolitical uncertainties, climate change, and supply chain disruptions. While competition between these Gulf nations is intensifying, there is also significant scope for cooperation, particularly in areas such as technology transfer, sustainable farming practices, and logistics. With world-class logistics hubs like DP World and AD Ports underpinning the UAE’s trade operations, the nation is well-placed to leverage its infrastructural strengths to support these agribusiness ventures across Africa and MENA.
In conclusion, the UAE’s strategic investments in agriculture—exemplified by landmark negotiations in Kenya—demonstrate its commitment to being a significant agent of change in Africa and the broader MENA region. By combining its technological expertise, robust logistics networks, and a forward-looking approach to sustainable development, the UAE is not only enhancing its own food security but also contributing to the transformation of agriculture across these regions. For AgTech companies aiming to expand their reach, establishing a base in the UAE offers a strategic gateway to tap into Africa’s vast potential, making this region a compelling destination for innovation, investment, and lasting economic impact.