A vertical farm in Abu Dhabi that has been growing fresh greens using hydroponics plans to produce strawberries and garden rocket for sale in the near future.
Smart Acres, the firm behind the project, said they have already seen a positive response from customers about their products, specifically their lettuce, which is going on sale end of this month.
The vegetables are grown under LED lights inside eight converted shipping containers using hydroponics – where crops are grown with nutrient-rich water instead of soil.
“We are planning for an expansion in the next year and we will have almost 80 shipping containers,” said Vishakh Nath, farm operations manager at the firm.
“In addition to the lettuces, we are planning for strawberries and rockets. The main project that we are looking forward to is to develop our own potato seeds within UAE.”
The vegetables are grown in a 237-square-metre facility at Abu Dhabi’s Armed Forces Officers Club.
At present they can produce 900kg of lettuce a month and grow four different varieties. The lettuce will sell for Dh40 to Dh45 per kilogram.
“We have been giving samples of our lettuces to restaurants, cafes and customers in the last few months and we’ve been getting a very good review about the taste, texture and the freshness of our lettuces, so we’re so excited that it’s going on sale this month,” said Mr Nath.
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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
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Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
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Source: American Paediatric Association
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