Abu Dhabi Agricultural Licenses Rise 29 Percent Amid Sector Expansion
Strong Growth in Agricultural Sector
The agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sector in Abu Dhabi showcased notable growth during the first nine months of 2025, driven by significant investments aimed at enhancing food security and diversifying the economy. Official reports highlight a marked increase in the issuance of new business licenses reflecting this momentum.
According to the Abu Dhabi Registration Authority (ADRA), the emirate issued 152 new licenses in the agriculture sector from January to September 2025, representing a 29 percent rise compared to the 118 licenses granted during the same period in 2024. This surge demonstrates the sector’s expanding appeal to both local and international investors.
Active licenses increased as well, climbing 13.5 percent to reach a total of 1,425, up from 1,255 a year prior. The rise in active licenses underscores the sector’s growing vitality and attractiveness.
Al Ain’s Dominance in New Licenses
The Al Ain region emerged as a key player, accounting for the largest share of new agricultural, fisheries, and livestock licenses issued in this timeframe. This region represented 61.8 percent of all new licenses, contributing to 63 percent of active licenses throughout Abu Dhabi.
In total, Al Ain registered 94 new economic licenses, bringing its active license count to 896. This development is critical for promoting food security, creating job opportunities, and fostering economic diversification in the emirate.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) recognizes agriculture as a priority development area in Al Ain. The focus lies on fostering public-private partnerships, enhancing investor opportunities, and nurturing talent while transitioning toward a more diversified and sustainable economy.
Expanded Economic Activities for Farms
Anticipating continued progress, authorities recently updated policies to expand the range of economic activities permissible on farms. Under Decision No (5) issued in 2025, the number of authorized activities increased from 71 to 145, as mandated by leadership.
This decision enhances existing policies, previously outlined in Decision No (3) of 2023, by adding 74 new economic activities across multiple categories:
- 41 related to plant production
- 9 supporting plant production
- 8 food support services
- 12 industrial support activities
- 2 general support services
- 2 recreational activities
ADRA emphasized that these changes pave the way for broader opportunities within agri-industries, recreation, and heritage activities, thus strengthening the support framework for agricultural development.
Commitment to Food Security and Investor Support
Mohammed Muneef Al Mansoori, the Director General of ADRA, reaffirmed Abu Dhabi’s commitment to providing a cohesive ecosystem that supports agriculture, fisheries, and livestock activities. He underscored the importance of these sectors in achieving food security—a priority for economies globally.
“The sustained growth in economic licenses cites the effectiveness of initiatives from various entities within the emirate,” he noted. “These include ADAFSA and ADDED, all focused on aiding investors and entrepreneurs in leveraging opportunities within agriculture, fisheries, and livestock.”
ADRA continues to enhance the business landscape in the agricultural realm by offering supportive programs tailored to entrepreneurs and investors. The newly introduced Farm License permits UAE nationals who own private farms to engage in up to 145 economic activities, facilitating agricultural development and diversifying potential ventures in agri-industries, recreation, and heritage.
Moreover, the Freelancer and Tajer Abu Dhabi licenses encompass advisory services pertinent to agriculture, fisheries, and livestock.
Fostering Agricultural Entrepreneurship
ADRA is intensively working to advance the agricultural sector under the supervision of the Committee for Economic Activities on Farms. This committee operates under directives from the Abu Dhabi Executive Office and comprises members from various government departments, including ADDED and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
“We are dedicated to supporting agricultural entrepreneurs and investors, especially in the transition toward smart and sustainable farming practices,” he stated. “Our initiatives align with strategic goals for sustainable development and building a resilient future economy.”
Last year’s launch of the AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (AGWA) initiative aims to enhance food and water production, leveraging cutting-edge innovations.
A Flourishing Sector
In 2024, the agricultural, fisheries, and livestock sector in Abu Dhabi experienced a remarkable increase in new licenses, rising 103 percent. The value of output from agriculture, forestry, and fisheries surged by 38 percent over five years, climbing from AED6.8 billion in 2019 to AED9.5 billion in 2024.
Additionally, agricultural and food product exports recorded a substantial growth of 37.5 percent, increasing from AED6.3 billion in 2019 to AED8.7 billion in 2024, signifying a robust trend in this vital sector.
Published on 1765322233 • Category: Politics & Economics,Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA),Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED),Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA),ADDED,ADRA,agricultural farming,Agriculture,agriculture in UAE,Al Ain,Farming,Farming in UAE,UAE farming