Abu Dhabi Sees Strong Rise in Agriculture and Farm Licences

Abu Dhabi’s agricultural sector is witnessing a solid upswing this year, with new data showing a notable rise in licences for agriculture, fisheries, and livestock activities. Fresh figures from January to September 2025 indicate that interest in the emirate’s food production ecosystem continues to gain momentum, supported by strategic initiatives and wider investment opportunities.

From the start of the year until 30 September, Abu Dhabi issued 152 new economic licences in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock fields — a 29% increase compared to the 118 licences issued during the same period in 2024. By the end of the third quarter, the total number of active licences reached 1,425, marking a 13.5% rise over last year’s 1,255.

A major share of this growth comes from the Al Ain Region, which accounted for 61.8% of new licences in 2025 and 63% of all active licences across the emirate. With 94 new licences issued this year, Al Ain now hosts 896 active agricultural-related businesses, reinforcing its status as a key hub for food production and rural economic development.

The surge also aligns with Abu Dhabi’s expansion of permissible economic activities on farms. A recent decision increased the number of activities allowed on farms from 71 to 145, opening the door to a broader range of plant production work, support services, food-related operations, light industrial activities, and even recreational projects. The updated framework covers 74 newly added activities, giving farm owners significantly more room to diversify operations.

Officials highlight that this broader set of opportunities is drawing in both local and international investors, particularly those eyeing smart agriculture, sustainable food systems, and agribusiness ventures. The shift is also helping to strengthen food security efforts across the UAE, as more businesses take root and expand production capacities.

Last year set the foundation for this growth, with new agricultural-related licences jumping 103% in 2024. Over a five-year period, the emirate’s agricultural, forestry, and fisheries output climbed 38%, rising from AED 6.8 billion in 2019 to AED 9.5 billion in 2024. Exports of agricultural and food products also grew by 37.5% during the same period.

With new regulatory support, increased investor confidence, and expanding farm capabilities, Abu Dhabi’s agriculture and food production sector is positioned for continued growth in the coming months.