The United Arab Emirates has a strong track record in agricultural innovation, particularly in developing sustainable wheat production under desert conditions. One of the country’s most ambitious initiatives is the Mleiha Wheat Project in Sharjah — a 400-hectare development led by Elite Agro and supported by the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.
Wheat Production Across 400 Hectares in the United Arab Emirates
Background
Launched by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the project transformed arid desert land into productive farmland within just four months, with an estimated yield of 1,700 tonnes of wheat. The initiative prioritises sustainability by growing wheat without pesticides, chemicals or genetically modified seeds.
The farm integrates an advanced technological infrastructure including soil sensors, satellite thermal imaging, and Valley pivot irrigation systems, enabling accurate and efficient water distribution in extreme climatic conditions.
ITC's solution
As part of the fertigation strategy implemented by Valmont, the project incorporates ITC’s Dostec 50 dosing pumps for the precise injection of fertilisers into the irrigation system.
The integration of Dostec 50 pumps contributes to:
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Accurate and consistent fertiliser dosing
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Improved nutrient efficiency and crop performance
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Reliable operation in harsh desert environments
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Optimised resource use, essential in high-efficiency irrigation systems
The pumps work as part of Valmont’s broader technological setup, which includes centralised monitoring and control of irrigation parameters. While the pivot system can be supervised and adjusted remotely, the Dostec 50 pumps provide precise, mechanical dosing performance required for a stable and uniform fertigation process.
This enhancement strengthens the overall irrigation strategy by combining advanced water management with dependable nutrient injection.
Conclusions
The Mleiha Wheat Project is a landmark in sustainable desert agriculture, demonstrating how advanced technology and precision dosing tools can enable large-scale wheat cultivation under extreme conditions.
Through the integration of ITC’s Dostec 50 pumps, the project ensures accurate fertiliser application, supporting crop productivity and contributing to the UAE’s long-term food security goals.
Location
- Mleiha, Sharjah, UAE
Puntos Clave
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Precise nutrient dosing in desalinated and treated irrigation water
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Improved efficiency in the use of both water and fertilisers
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Continuous monitoring, accurate adjustments and reliable operation under extreme climatic conditions
Products used
- Dostec 50: Piston dosing pumps for precise fertilizer injection
