UAE Achieves Global First with AI Certification in Agriculture
<h3>UAE Sets Global Benchmark: ADAFSA Becomes First to Achieve ISO 42001:2023 AI Certification in Agriculture</h3><p><strong>Abu Dhabi, August 4, 2025</strong> – The <strong>Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)</strong> has made history by becoming the first organization in the global agriculture and food safety sector to achieve <strong>ISO 42001:2023 certification for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Management Systems</strong>. This landmark also makes ADAFSA the <strong>first UAE government entity</strong> to receive this international recognition, reinforcing the country’s leadership in responsible and ethical AI adoption.</p><h3>A Landmark for AI in Agriculture</h3><p>The certification highlights the UAE’s growing role in setting international standards for AI use in critical industries. ISO 42001:2023 provides a globally recognized framework to ensure AI is implemented <strong>responsibly, ethically, and sustainably</strong>.</p><p><strong>Omar Sultan Al Olama</strong>, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, lauded ADAFSA’s achievement, stating:</p><blockquote><p>“This certification reflects our leadership’s vision of harnessing AI to boost efficiency, innovation, and sustainability across vital sectors like agriculture and food security.”</p></blockquote><p><strong>Dr. Tariq Al Ameri</strong>, Acting Director General of ADAFSA, added that the certification aligns with the <strong>UAE AI Strategy 2031</strong>, supporting agricultural sustainability, food security, and digital transformation.</p><h3>How AI is Transforming Agriculture</h3><p>AI is increasingly central to modern agriculture, optimizing everything from crop management to livestock monitoring. Key applications include:</p><p><strong>Precision Agriculture:</strong> AI analyzes data from drones, satellites, and sensors to optimize water, fertilizer, and pesticide use, reducing waste and improving yields.</p><p><strong>Smart Irrigation:</strong> AI calculates precise water requirements based on soil, crop type, and weather, conserving water in arid regions.</p><p><strong>Pest and Disease Detection:</strong> Early AI detection prevents crop damage and ensures timely interventions.</p><p><strong>Livestock Health Monitoring:</strong> Wearable sensors track animals’ vital signs, alerting farmers to potential illnesses.</p><p><strong>Automated Weed Removal:</strong> AI-driven machines remove weeds efficiently, reducing herbicide use.</p><p><strong>Product Sorting and Grading:</strong> AI ensures only premium-quality produce reaches the market.</p><p><strong>Aerial Imaging and Soil Analysis:</strong> Drone-based AI mapping guides effective farm management decisions.</p><h3>Advancing Food Security</h3><p>With nearly <strong>90% of food imported</strong>, the UAE prioritizes local production. AI integration supports:</p><p>Increased domestic food output</p><p>Reduced reliance on imports</p><p>Climate-resilient crop and soil management</p><p>Sustainable farming models for desert environments</p><p>AI-driven innovations are already aiding in developing <strong>climate-resilient rice varieties</strong> and optimizing water usage through precision irrigation.</p><h3>Smart Farming and the Future</h3><p>ISO 42001:2023 certification positions the UAE as a <strong>global hub for smart farming innovation</strong>. By integrating AI with <strong>automation, robotics, and IoT</strong>, UAE agriculture achieves <strong>higher yields, lower costs, and reduced environmental impact</strong>. The country is setting a blueprint for <strong>responsible AI adoption</strong> in agriculture that can serve global food security efforts.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>With ADAFSA securing the world’s first AI management certification in agriculture, the UAE demonstrates its commitment to <strong>innovation, sustainability, and leadership</strong> on the global stage. As <strong>Dr. Tariq Al Ameri</strong> noted:</p><blockquote><p>“This is only the beginning. With AI, we are building a smarter, more sustainable future for agriculture and beyond.”</p></blockquote><p>This achievement showcases how AI can responsibly transform industries, enhance food security, and help humanity adapt to future challenges.</p>