Dubai Municipality Announces Winners of ‘Dubai’s Best Homegrown Produce Competition

Dubai Municipality has revealed the winners of the ‘Dubai’s Best Homegrown Produce Competition,’ part of the Dubai Farms initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture within the community. The competition, introduced in March 2024, encourages local citizens to adopt modern agricultural practices to enhance local production and food security in alignment with Dubai Social Agenda 33.

The event saw 109 competitors, with 12 finalists emerging and three top winners announced. The initiative focuses on raising awareness about innovative and sustainable agricultural techniques, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and environmental preservation.

Winners and Innovative Practices

• First Place: Dr. Sultana Osman Yousef Suleiman’s garden in District 1, Jumeirah, won AED 50,000 and the Medal of Dubai’s Best Homegrown Produce. Dr. Sultana's garden showcased advanced aeroponic systems, greenhouse cooling, water treatment and recycling systems, and a unique distillation system for aromatic plants. The garden also featured a distinctive trademark representing its commitment to agricultural education and culture.

• Second Place: Ms. Naeema Mohammed Al Amiri’s garden in Al Garhoud secured AED 30,000. Her garden utilized an innovative aquaponic system, lakes for fish, and advanced underground irrigation. The garden's ecosystem was enhanced by an apiary, aiding in plant pollination and honey production.

• Third Place: Mr. Jamal Abdullah Almuheiri’s garden in Nad Al Sheba 2 won AED 20,000. Mr. Almheiri’s garden employed a gravity-powered hydroponic system, cultivating Azolla for poultry feed and producing high-quality dried produce. This garden adhered to high health and safety standards.

Sustainable Agriculture and Community Impact

The competition highlighted various advanced agricultural systems, such as aeroponics and hydroponics, along with integrated water treatment and recycling systems. By adopting these innovative practices, participants contributed to Dubai's goals of enhancing food security and sustainability.

Dubai Municipality emphasized the competition's role in promoting local agricultural practices, supporting small-scale home projects, and increasing their contribution to the Emirate’s GDP. The initiative aligns with the National Food Security Strategy and the Dubai Food Security Strategy, focusing on reducing food loss and wastage and positioning Dubai as a leader in environmental and food sustainability.