Smart technology is essential for food security in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia is facing a significant food security challenge due to various factors, including limited arable land, water shortages, and supply chain disruptions. In 2021, only 1.6 percent of Saudi Arabia's land was cultivable, which adds immense pressure on agricultural productivity within the region. In response to these challenges, experts and companies like Ivvest are advocating for innovative solutions such as vertical farming, which utilizes vertical space to enhance production capabilities. This method allows for exponential increases in food production and is deemed essential for optimizing the scarce arable land available in the region. Furthermore, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that hunger in Arab states has risen dramatically, affecting nearly 60 million people by 2022, highlighting the critical need for sustainable local production. Experts like Zulfiqar Hamadani, CEO of Tanmiah Food Co., stress the importance of developing resilient local supply chains to meet the nutritional requirements of the growing population while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for food self-sufficiency. The FAO emphasizes sustainable practices such as soil and water conservation, indicating that collaboration among governments, organizations, and communities is vital for building resilient food systems across the Middle East. Partnerships between technology providers and governments are also seen as fundamental to achieving these objectives, alongside supportive policy frameworks that foster research and innovation in agricultural practices.