In a landmark move to bolster agricultural resilience, seeds cultivated in the UAE have been transported to the Arctic for secure storage in the world’s most protected agricultural vault.
The seeds, carefully selected for their ability to thrive in extreme environments, mark the first-ever contribution from the Gulf region to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.
Located on an island above the Arctic Circle, between Norway and the North Pole, the vault serves as the world’s ultimate safeguard for agricultural biodiversity.
Often referred to as the “Doomsday Vault,” it plays a critical role in preserving the genetic heritage of crops to ensure food security for future generations.
The International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai led the initiative, meticulously collecting and studying the seeds before sending them to the frozen vaults of Svalbard.
A total of 315 seed samples from 110 plant species—including 61 species and 24 genera—were deposited. Among them are seeds from the UAE’s national tree, the Ghaf, known for its exceptional resilience to drought, heat, and salinity.
Preserving Agriculture in the Face of Climate Change
This significant deposit represents a vital step in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
With rising temperatures, soil degradation, and water scarcity threatening global food supplies, the preservation of climate-resilient seeds ensures that future generations can access essential genetic resources for sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, director general of ICBA, underscored the importance of the initiative. “From the heart of the UAE to the Arctic permafrost, ICBA’s seeds have embarked on a journey through time, ensuring that genetic resources remain available to sustain food production in a changing world,” she said.
Many of the seeds deposited have been developed through decades of research in plant breeding, biotechnology, and environmental adaptation.
They have been specifically selected for their ability to withstand extreme conditions, making them invaluable for global food security.
“By preserving them in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, we are securing a vital agricultural legacy that will support innovation and resilience for years to come,” Alzaabi added.
A Global Effort for Agricultural Biodiversity
The Svalbard Global Seed Vault operates under the Nordic Genetic Resources Centre and houses over 1.3 million seed samples from 6,200 plant species.
Established under a United Nations treaty governing more than 1,700 seed banks, it serves as “the ultimate insurance policy for the world’s food supply.”
The vault is designed to withstand conflicts, natural disasters, and climate crises, ensuring the long-term preservation of the world’s most essential crops.
The ICBA Genebank, which holds more than 17,000 accessions from 325 plant species, is one of the largest global collections of crops tolerant to drought, heat, and salinity.
By contributing seeds to Svalbard, the UAE strengthens its commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security, while also supporting international efforts to protect biodiversity.
From the desert sands of the Arabian Peninsula to the frozen vaults of Svalbard, these seeds symbolize resilience and adaptability.
Their preservation marks a critical step in securing a food-secure future, reinforcing the UAE’s vision for agricultural sustainability in the face of global challenges.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members