Mansour bin Zayed approves 74 new economic activities on farms

September 12, 2025 / 5:35 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, in his capacity as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), has issued Decision No. (5) of 2025. This decision amends certain provisions of Decision No. (3) of 2023 concerning the practice of economic activities on farms in the emirate.

Total of 145 economic activities now permitted

According to Article (2) of the new decision, 74 additional economic activities have been added to the existing list, bringing the total number of permitted farm-based activities to 145. The newly approved activities span several sectors, including plant production, supporting plant production, food support services, industrial support activities, general support services, and recreational activities.

Amendments to existing regulations

Article (1) of the decision updates Clause 2 of Article (5) of the 2023 decision, specifying that the built-up area designated for economic activities must not exceed the limit determined by the competent authority in the emirate. Additionally, Clause 3 has been replaced to affirm that farm owners or licensed establishments in Abu Dhabi may conduct economic activities on farms, provided the land continues to be used according to its intended agricultural purpose.

Committee driving farm-based economic reform

Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of ADAFSA, confirmed that the decision aligns with the work of the Committee for Economic Activities on Farms. The committee was established under the direction of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office and includes representatives from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

Aims to enhance farm utilisation and economic diversification

Dr Al Ameri noted that the committee’s efforts focus on optimising the use of farms, expanding the range of viable economic activities, and regulating recreational and tourism services. These developments are intended to transform farms into investment hubs that offer educational, recreational, and cultural experiences, supporting the wider tourism and economic goals of the emirate.

Supporting food security and agri-tourism

The decision supports ADAFSA’s strategic goals of enhancing food security, increasing local agricultural production, and encouraging agri-tourism through the inclusion of select recreational activities on farms. It reflects the vision and backing of the UAE’s leadership in developing a sustainable, diversified rural economy.

Coordination with government entities for implementation

Dr Al Ameri also emphasized that ADAFSA is collaborating closely with all relevant government entities responsible for regulation, licensing, and oversight. These efforts aim to ensure that the decision is effectively implemented in alignment with applicable legislation and Abu Dhabi’s broader vision for sustainable development and innovation in agriculture and the economy.