In a remarkable feat of agricultural innovation, 50-year-old Emirati farmer Ahmad Al Hafiti has successfully cultivated over 6,000 cacao trees in Fujairah, proving that even the desert can sustain this beloved chocolate-producing plant.
Sourcing seeds from Uganda and other regions, Al Hafiti’s journey from military service to flourishing agri-enterprise is transforming local food production and inspiring future generations in the UAE.
With a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management from the US and a master’s in medical services and hospital management from the UK, his educational background initially led him toward healthcare.
However, his childhood dream of becoming an agricultural engineer resurfaced after a memorable encounter with the late Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, in 1997 during Al Hafiti’s studies in London.
During this pivotal meeting, Sheikh Zayed inquired about the students’ academic pursuits and invited them to his farm. Al Hafiti recalled, “He shared insights about apple cultivation in one of the islands in Abu Dhabi. From then on, whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit local agricultural nurseries.”
Embracing this inspiration, Al Hafiti began his agricultural journey by cultivating rare plants at home, eventually scaling his efforts to include cacao trees.
These trees, which typically reach heights of 15 to 25 feet, take about five years to mature and begin producing cacao pods, the source of cocoa beans used in chocolate production.
Al Hafiti’s commitment to sustainable agriculture has not gone unnoticed. His dedication earned him multiple accolades, including the title of Best Influencer in Agriculture.
He has participated in international agricultural events and was recently invited to an exhibition in Sri Lanka to share his expertise.
“The clay soil in Fujairah, combined with its humid climate, provides an ideal environment for cocoa cultivation in the UAE,” Al Hafiti explained.
He emphasizes that the local conditions enable the cacao trees to thrive, and he is committed to promoting self-sufficiency and sustainability within the community. “My main goal is to foster local seed production and distribution, connecting the community with sustainable practices,” he said.
Al Hafiti’s vision extends beyond cacao cultivation. He aspires to establish an agricultural city focused on education, experimentation, and tourism, creating a space where residents can learn about sustainable farming techniques. “I hope to see an agricultural city specializing in teaching, experiences, and tourism,” he remarked.
The cocoa trees not only symbolize Al Hafiti’s success but also serve as a testament to the potential of agriculture in the UAE. His work contributes to food security and environmental sustainability while inspiring younger generations to explore agricultural careers.
As he continues to nurture the cacao trees, Al Hafiti emphasizes the importance of proper shading for young cocoa trees to ensure their growth and vitality. “The cocoa tree grows quickly and is available for sale within two to three months,” he noted, highlighting the rapid turnaround for budding entrepreneurs interested in cocoa farming.
In addition to cacao cultivation, Al Hafiti established an agricultural nursery in 2018, expanding his range of plants to include cashew, pistachios, and jackfruit, along with a variety of spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. His diverse offerings not only enrich local agriculture but also contribute to a more self-sufficient food system within the UAE.
Al Hafiti’s efforts resonate with the broader vision of the UAE’s leadership to enhance food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices. His success story serves as an inspiring model for others looking to enter the agricultural sector in the region, illustrating that with dedication and innovative approaches, even the harshest climates can yield fruitful results.
The farmer’s work aligns with national initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on imported food and increasing local production. As the UAE continues to face challenges related to food security, Al Hafiti’s enterprise underscores the importance of local agriculture in addressing these issues.
His journey also sheds light on the changing perceptions of farming in the UAE, moving away from traditional views toward a more modern understanding of agriculture as a viable and sustainable career path. Al Hafiti’s narrative reflects a growing trend among Emiratis to explore agricultural innovations, diversify their career choices, and invest in sustainable practices.
“Through my work, I want to demonstrate that it is possible to cultivate diverse crops in the UAE, despite the arid conditions,” he stated. “We need to challenge the notion that certain plants cannot grow here and inspire others to try.”
As he looks to the future, Al Hafiti remains optimistic about the potential for agriculture in the UAE. He encourages aspiring farmers to pursue their passions and emphasizes the importance of education in achieving agricultural goals. “Knowledge is key to success in farming,” he advised. “With the right information and resources, anyone can become a successful farmer.”
Ahmad Al Hafiti’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for agriculture.
By cultivating cacao trees in Fujairah, he not only enriches the local food landscape but also embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and sustainability that defines the UAE’s vision for the future. As he continues to grow his agricultural enterprise, Al Hafiti stands as a beacon of hope for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow in the desert.