As the national tree of the United Arab Emirates, the Ghaf is revered for its ecological, cultural and symbolic value. It stabilises dunes, enriches soils and supports biodiversity in arid environments. Yet despite its importance, little was previously known about the species’ genetic variation or evolutionary history – until now.
EAD and ICBA Complete UAE’s First Ghaf Tree Population Genomics Study
28 November 2025
As part of a pioneering scientific collaboration, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) have completed the first-ever population genomics study of the Ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria), revealing significant genetic insights critical for conserving this iconic desert species and supporting the development of climate-resilient ecosystems across the UAE.
In the presence of H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) and Al Rostamani Group inaugurated a Training and Knowledge Transfer Building, a Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, and an Integrated Agri-Aquaculture System at ICBA’s headquarters in Dubai.
The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, H.E. Marwan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Chairman of Al Rostamani Group; H.E. Hassan Abdulla Al Rostamani, Vice-Chairman of Al Rostamani Group; and H.E. Dr. Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA, along with senior officials, scientists, and representatives from government entities, academia, and the private sector.
H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated: “The inauguration of ICBA's new research and training facilities marks a significant moment for agricultural innovation in the UAE. ICBA has been instrumental in our National Food Security Strategy 2051, pioneering scientific innovation to enable crops to thrive in challenging saline and arid environments".
H.E. Dr. Tarifa Ajeif Al Zaabi, Director General of ICBA, said: “This inauguration reflects the true spirit of partnership and its vital role in advancing science, innovation, and sustainability through constructive collaboration. These new facilities represent a strategic investment in knowledge and capacity development. The Training Center will serve as a platform where farmers, researchers, and policymakers learn and collaborate side by side".
ICBA and Al Rostamani Group Inaugurate New Training and Agricultural Research Facilities to Advance Sustainable Agriculture and Innovation in the UAE
13 November 2025
In the presence of H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) and Al Rostamani Group inaugurated a Training and Knowledge Transfer Building, a Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, and an Integrated Agri-Aquaculture System at ICBA’s headquarters in Dubai.
