UAE Drives Global Agricultural Innovation with Khalifa Award Books
At the heart of the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), held from April 26 to May 5, 2025, the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation made a landmark contribution. It unveiled seven new scientific books at the iconic Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
These publications, released under the umbrella of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, were launched in multiple languages. They reflect the Award’s mission to enrich global agricultural literature. The books cover diverse fields—date palm cultivation, organic agriculture, biotechnology, food processing, and international agricultural development. Collectively, they align with the UAE’s vision for innovation, sustainability, and agricultural leadership.
“Date Palm Cultivation” (Arabic Edition): A Regional Guide to Palm Farming
Developed in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, the Arabic edition of Date Palm Cultivation offers a comprehensive guide for Arabic-speaking farmers, engineers, and policymakers.
This book provides both traditional and modern techniques for cultivating date palms in arid and semi-arid regions. It addresses critical environmental factors in the Middle East and North Africa, such as smart water use, pest resistance, and soil conservation. Therefore, it serves as a fusion of scientific principles and regional wisdom—helping the local industry grow sustainably.
“Date Palm Cultivation” (English Edition): Sharing the UAE’s Expertise Globally
To reach a wider audience, the English version mirrors the Arabic edition’s structure. It is particularly valuable for countries in Asia, Africa, and the Americas that are new to date palm farming.
The book covers varietal selection, propagation, disease control, and climate strategies. Furthermore, it documents UAE-backed experiments and academic research. As a result, it serves as a bridge between global researchers and practitioners. The publication empowers emerging agricultural economies to replicate the UAE’s date palm success and support global food sustainability.
Glossary of Biotechnology for Food and Agriculture: Unlocking Scientific Language
Biotechnology in agriculture is fast evolving. Understanding its language is vital.
The Glossary of Biotechnology for Food and Agriculture, also developed with FAO, simplifies complex scientific terms. It covers molecular biology, genetic engineering, plant breeding, and agro-biotech. Designed for students, scholars, and agronomists, it offers definitions, examples, and cross-references. Hence, the glossary helps bridge the gap between lab research and practical farming, encouraging a new generation of biotech-savvy professionals.
Date Palm Cultivation in Mexico (Spanish Edition): A Global Exchange of Knowledge
As date palm farming spreads globally, Mexico is becoming a new center of activity. The Spanish book Date Palm Cultivation in Mexico, created with Sonora State University and Dr. Ricardo Salomon Torres, explores this shift.
It highlights Mexico’s soil diversity, climate, and farming systems. The book details how these factors influence date production and quality. Additionally, it shares field trials, irrigation techniques, and cultivar adaptations. Thus, the publication promotes knowledge exchange and shows how agricultural practices can be transferred across regions.
Food Industries from Dates (Arabic Edition): Unlocking Commercial Potential
The UAE has long recognized the economic value of processed dates.
Food Industries from Dates, written in Arabic by Prof. Hassan Khaled Al Oqaidi, explores how dates are transformed into profitable products. These include energy bars, syrups, sweeteners, flour, and vinegar. The book outlines production processes, industrial equipment, storage solutions, and packaging innovations. It serves investors, entrepreneurs, and food scientists aiming to scale value-added date products and meet the global demand for natural ingredients.
Organic Agriculture (English Edition): Rethinking Traditional Farming Systems
Authored by Prof. Magdy Mohamed Qenawy, the English book Organic Agriculture promotes a shift from conventional to sustainable practices.
Targeted at countries facing soil degradation and chemical overuse, it discusses organic soil amendments, pest control, and crop rotation. The book also addresses certification processes and policy implications. Therefore, it functions as both a textbook and operational guide. It contributes to broader discussions on food ethics, environmental health, and agroecological resilience.
Mejhoul Variety: The Jewel of Dates (Indonesian Edition): A Global Celebration
The final publication, Mejhoul Variety: The Jewel of Dates, now available in Indonesian, underlines the growing interest in dates across Southeast Asia.
Developed with the Indonesian Kalimantan Date Palm Association, the book showcases the prized Mejhoul variety. It highlights its rich flavor, size, and nutritional benefits. Additionally, it covers cultivation methods, post-harvest handling, and market trends. This is the fifth language the book has been translated into, following Arabic, English, French, and Spanish—proving its global significance. As a result, it helps farmers brand and market the Mejhoul variety internationally.
A Platform to Promote Knowledge, Innovation, and Sustainability
The Khalifa International Award’s presence at ADIBF 2025 goes beyond showcasing books. It symbolizes a deep commitment to sustainable, knowledge-driven agriculture.
By promoting scientific documentation, the Award supports the evolution of traditional practices into research-based solutions. The book fair gives it a platform to engage researchers, professionals, and the public—reaffirming its role as a steward of agricultural knowledge with a global reach.
Encouraging Engagement and Dialogue at ADIBF 2025
Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, Secretary-General of the Award, emphasized that the fair fosters dynamic dialogue.
It’s not just about displaying books; it’s about connecting knowledge creators with users. Visitors can explore the publications, engage in discussions, and learn about transformative agricultural methods. According to Dr. Zaid, books are more than printed pages—they are strategic tools. They can transform lives, ecosystems, and institutions.
Scientific Collaboration and the UAE’s Global Agricultural Identity
Each of the seven books launched in 2025 is a product of international and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Partnerships with FAO, Sonora State University, and the Indonesian Kalimantan Date Palm Association demonstrate the UAE’s leadership in agricultural knowledge diplomacy. These initiatives enhance the nation’s reputation as an innovation hub and support its national strategies like the UAE Green Agenda 2030 and the National Food Security Strategy.
Knowledge as the Seed for a Sustainable Tomorrow
The launch of these seven publications is more than a literary event. It’s a global message.
With every page, the Khalifa International Award empowers farmers, informs scholars, and supports policymakers. The books plant seeds of resilience, sustainability, and innovation. Through knowledge, they offer a blueprint for a better, more connected agricultural future.
