News » 09.05.2025 - Edible flowers and vertical farming in Dubai

In a city where space is limited and water is scarce, UNS Farms is making the case for compact, data-driven agriculture. Based in Dubai, the farm operates one of the region's most efficient vertical systems, spanning eight levels and producing up to 1,500 kilograms of fresh greens per day in a 30,000-square-foot facility, but the company's ambitions stretch far beyond its flagship site.

"We're actively working to scale our vertical farming operations to meet growing urban demand," says Mehlam Murtaza, Executive Director at UNS Farms. "Our focus is not just Dubai, but urban centers across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries where fresh, local produce is increasingly sought after."

Founded in 2018 under the Speedex Group, UNS Farms has steadily transitioned from a single warehouse project into a broader platform for sustainable food production, education, and consulting. Today, the company supplies retailers, hospitality groups, and households across the UAE with a rotating portfolio of salads, microgreens, edible flowers, herbs, and fruits.

"Over the past two years, we've seen a significant uptick in interest from grocery chains, restaurants, and individual consumers," Murtaza says. "This shift is driven by a regional movement toward healthier lifestyles and environmentally responsible sourcing."

Mehlam Murtaza, Executive Director at UNS Farms

Precision at scale
The farm uses a tightly controlled hydroponic system designed for high-density yields with minimal resource waste. Sensors track pH levels, light, humidity, temperature, and water quality in real time, allowing the team to standardize output and limit intervention.

"Every crop has its own needs," says Murtaza. "So we tailor nutrient delivery and environmental settings accordingly. We're constantly optimizing for performance and consistency."

While common vertical crops like lettuce and herbs perform well, others have required more experimentation. "There are definitely crops that challenged us initially," Murtaza adds. "But ongoing R&D allows us to keep adjusting. We're learning what works best in these environments."

A role in food security
UNS Farms sees its model as one that directly supports the UAE's broader resilience agenda. "Our urban-based production shortens the supply chain, reduces dependency on imports, and stabilizes local access to fresh food," says Murtaza. "It's aligned with the city's food security strategy, not just as a concept but in execution."

While the farm already reduces resource use significantly, further sustainability gains are on the horizon. "We're currently exploring renewable energy integration, especially in lighting and climate control systems," Murtaza confirms.

From consulting to certification
Beyond growing produce, UNS Farms advises other producers and developers looking to modernize their food systems. Through knowledge-sharing tours, farm visits, and project consultations, the company is helping transition outdated models toward more efficient and modular ones. "We're not just scaling ourselves—we're supporting others to do the same," says Murtaza.

In March 2025, UNS Farms was awarded an EcoVadis Silver rating, ranking them in the top 15% globally for sustainability and corporate social responsibility. They also maintain HACCP and ISO 22000 certifications for food safety. "These recognitions reflect our long-term commitment to building a credible and transparent platform for vertical farming in the region," says Murtaza.

Community-first education
One of UNS Farms' lesser-known initiatives may also be one of its most impactful: farm tours. Designed for both students and adults, the guided experiences walk visitors through multiple growing chambers and systems before sending them home with a small grow kit.

Crops featured during the tour include salads, edible flowers, and microgreens. Visitors also learn about potting mixes and the plant life cycle. "We want people to understand how food can be grown in the city—and why it matters," Murtaza says. "It's about closing the knowledge gap and creating a sense of ownership in the local food system."

That blend of high-efficiency agriculture, public education, and open-source innovation points to a broader vision. "The future of farming in the Gulf won't come from importing more food," Murtaza says. "It will come from producing smarter, closer, and more sustainably. That's where we're headed."

Source: www.floraldaily.com

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