The United Arab Emirates has taken a historic step in agricultural innovation, becoming the first country in the world where a government authority has earned the prestigious ISO 42001:2023 certification for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Management Systems in agriculture.
This global milestone was achieved by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) — positioning the UAE as a trailblazer in adopting responsible and advanced AI frameworks across critical sectors like food security and sustainable farming.
🔍 Why This Matters
AI is no longer a future technology; it’s shaping how we grow food, manage resources, and ensure sustainability. With ADAFSA now officially certified, the UAE sets an international benchmark for integrating AI governance, transparency, and ethical implementation in agriculture.
🗣️ UAE Leaders Weigh In
Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized that this milestone is part of the UAE’s broader mission to harness AI in boosting national resilience. He praised ADAFSA for pushing forward the country’s digital transformation agenda, especially in sectors tied to human well-being like food and water security.
Dr. Tariq Al Ameri, Acting Director General of ADAFSA, added that this achievement reflects the strategic vision of both Abu Dhabi and the UAE AI Strategy 2031 — aiming to promote sustainability, innovation, and smart technology adoption in public service
🌾 How AI is Transforming Agriculture in the UAE
The integration of AI is revolutionizing agriculture by making farming more data-driven, efficient, and environmentally conscious. Here’s how:
Precision Agriculture: AI analyzes real-time data from drones and field sensors to apply the right amount of water, fertilizer, and pesticides — cutting waste and increasing yield.
Smart Irrigation Systems: AI tools assess crop type, soil quality, and weather to optimize water usage.
Drones and Imaging: Aerial imagery helps farmers track crop growth, soil health, and potential threats.
Pest & Disease Detection: AI models catch early signs of outbreaks, enabling faster, more targeted action.
Livestock Monitoring: Sensors and AI track animal health to improve welfare and reduce losses.
Weed Management: Robots powered by computer vision remove weeds without the need for chemical sprays.
Sorting and Grading: AI ensures only the best produce hits the market by classifying crops based on quality, shape, and size.
🌍 Smart Farming = Smart Future
This AI-powered transformation is part of a global shift toward precision agriculture, a movement that combines AI, automation, IoT, and real-time analytics to make farming smarter, more sustainable, and more resilient in the face of climate change.
With the UAE taking the lead — others in the Gulf and MENA region can follow suit by investing in local innovation, regulatory readiness, and talent development in agritech and AI.
✅ Key Takeaways
UAE is the first country to earn ISO 42001:2023 AI certification in agriculture.
ADAFSA sets a global precedent for responsible AI governance in food security.
AI is now central to the UAE’s Vision 2031 and sustainability goals.
Precision farming, drone technology, and AI-driven irrigation are transforming agriculture.
The UAE continues to lead the GCC in smart, ethical AI adoption across critical sectors.
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