Ahmad Al Hafiti, a 50-year-old Emirati farmer, is revolutionizing agriculture in Fujairah by successfully growing cocoa and various tropical plants to enhance the UAE’s food production. Through sourcing seeds from Uganda and other countries, Al Hafiti has planted over 6,000 cocoa trees and sold 1,000 cocoa plants, turning his passion into a thriving agricultural business. Cacao trees take about five years to mature and produce pods, which contain cocoa beans, the main ingredient in chocolate production.
The cacao tree, originating in the upper Amazon basin region, thrives in Fujairah’s clay soil and humid climate, making it an ideal location for cocoa cultivation in the UAE. Al Hafiti, a retired UAE army officer with a background in healthcare management, pursued agriculture after his military service, guided by a desire to promote self-sufficiency and sustainability. His dedication to agriculture has earned him multiple accolades and recognition at international events, showcasing the potential of agriculture in the UAE.
Inspired by a meeting with the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed, Al Hafiti is driven to create an agricultural city focusing on education and experimentation to foster community engagement and sustainable practices. His vision includes promoting local seed production and distribution while establishing an agricultural city dedicated to teaching, experiences, and tourism. Al Hafiti’s efforts not only contribute to food security and environmental sustainability but also inspire future generations to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.
Al Hafiti’s agricultural achievements extend beyond cocoa cultivation, as he has also cultivated cashew, pistachios, jackfruit, and various spices in his nursery. His international recognition for growing a variety of exotic plants highlights his dedication to diversifying agriculture in the UAE. With a focus on promoting local seed production and self-sufficiency, Al Hafiti’s efforts showcase the potential of agriculture in the UAE and the importance of embracing sustainable practices to ensure a secure food supply for the future.
Through his passion for agriculture and dedication to promoting self-sufficiency, Ahmad Al Hafiti is making significant strides in transforming Fujairah’s agricultural landscape. His success in cultivating cocoa and tropical plants showcases the potential of agriculture in the UAE and inspires future generations to embrace sustainable practices. With a vision to create an agricultural city focused on education and experimentation, Al Hafiti is paving the way for a more sustainable and self-sufficient future in the UAE.
