Naeema Mohammed Al Amiri’s passion for agriculture began early on, despite not being able to fulfill her dream of studying at the College of Agriculture. After winning the Dubai Municipality’s ‘Best Homegrown Produce Competition’, she turned her house garden into a thriving farm and earned Dh30,000. Naeema transformed her home into a paradise by growing various crops mentioned in the Quran including palm trees, figs, olives, bananas, and herbs. She also started a pure honey business and established a bird sanctuary on her property.
Her daughter enjoys picking vegetables from the garden to make salads, showcasing the family’s involvement in the farming process. Naeema emphasizes the importance of patience in cultivation, especially with challenging crops like pineapple that can take up to three years to grow. Despite facing challenges, she remains dedicated to continuously educating herself about agriculture. She sees her farm as a paradise that nurtures the mind, soul, and body.
Naeema has embraced modern farming techniques on her award-winning garden, including an aquaponic system with a serene lake serving as a vibrant habitat for fish that circulates nutrient-rich water for her plants. She also implemented an advanced underground irrigation system to minimize water waste and evaporation, showcasing her commitment to sustainability. Her garden boasts a diverse array of plant species, showcasing her deep understanding of horticulture.
Beyond her own garden, Naeema has inspired a thriving garden community in her neighborhood by sharing her knowledge and spreading her green thumb to others. She dreams of establishing an agricultural academy for children to learn about agriculture from a young age, inspiring the next generation to reconnect with nature and embrace food growing. Naeema’s dedication to agriculture and sustainability serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging a love for the land and fostering a deeper connection to food production.
