UAE's agritourism and farm stays
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is located southeast of the Arabian Peninsula and is known for its desert landscapes, modern architecture, and bustling cities. While the UAE is not typically associated with agriculture, the country has made significant strides in recent years to promote agritourism, and farm stays as a way to diversify its economy and provide unique experiences for tourists.
Agritourism, also known as agrotourism or farm tourism, refers to the practice of inviting visitors to a working farm or agricultural property to experience and learn about farming and rural life. This can include fruit picking, feeding animals, or learning about sustainable farming practices. Farm stays a subcategory of agritourism, involve visitors staying overnight on a farm, often in accommodations such as cottages or bed and breakfasts.
Al Dhaid Farm
The UAE's agritourism scene is still relatively new, but it has been growing in popularity in recent years. One of the most well-known agritourism destinations in the UAE is the Al Dhaid farm, located in the northern emirate of Sharjah. The farm covers an area of over 2 million square meters and offers visitors the chance to learn about traditional farming practices and the history of the region. Visitors can take guided tours of the farm, try their hand at planting or harvesting crops, and enjoy traditional Emirati meals.
The Organic Oasis Farm
Another popular agritourism destination in the UAE is the Organic Oasis Farm, located in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. This farm is dedicated to sustainable and organic farming, and visitors can learn about the methods used on the farm, as well as sample the organic produce grown there. The farm also offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as the opportunity to stay overnight in traditional Arabic tents.
Al Ain Oasis
The Al Ain Oasis, located in the city of Al Ain, also offers agritourism experiences, which include a chance to visit the traditional falaj irrigation system and an insight into conventional agricultural practices.
Conclusion
Overall, agritourism and farm stay in the UAE offers a unique and authentic way for visitors to experience the country's culture and learn about its history and traditional way of life. These experiences provide a unique and different outlook of the country than the typical urban and modern perspective that many tourists expect and allow them to see the UAE differently.
While it's still a niche market and not as developed as other countries, the UAE's agritourism and farm stays are worth visiting and considered an option for anyone looking to add a different and more rural side to their vacation.
