The Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative is testing two technologies aimed at reducing water use in UAE agriculture, with CRETA Group and Raincatcher Technologies trialing solutions through the Al Miyah Challenge for Agriculture.
UAE-based CRETA Group has developed a multi-zone greenhouse system that combines underground heat exchange, engineered airflow, pressure management and passive solar reduction. Its Al Ain pilot is testing the system in desert conditions, where temperatures can approach 50°C.
The company said the system targets an 85–90% reduction in cooling-water consumption compared with conventional fan-and-pad systems. These are design targets, not final measured savings. CRETA reported 12–15°C reductions in air temperature and 30–40% lower cooling-related electricity use during the pilot.
Dubai-based Raincatcher Technologies is testing a biodegradable soil improver that absorbs and gradually releases water near plant roots. The solution works with existing irrigation systems and is designed for sandy soils.
According to the company, a trial involving 27 date palms at the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture recorded an 85% reduction in water use. A separate sweet-corn trial in Al Ain reported 20–25% lower consumption. Raincatcher said results vary by crop and irrigation efficiency.
Both solutions are designed to work with existing agricultural infrastructure, although performance depends on climate, crop type and irrigation methods.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
