Abu Dhabi harnesses AI to revolutionise water use in agriculture

ABU DHABI -

Abu Dhabi is taking a high-tech leap in sustainable agriculture with the launch of its Smart Metre Project in the Al Wathba area, a joint initiative by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA).

The pioneering project integrates artificial intelligence and digital monitoring technologies to enhance water-use efficiency and provide farmers with real-time data to optimise productivity. By connecting AI-powered smart metres to the Department of Energy’s digital platform, AD.WE, the initiative aims to improve measurement accuracy, reduce water wastage, and enable data-driven decisions across the emirate’s agricultural sector.

The Smart Metre Project marks a strategic milestone in Abu Dhabi’s approach to resource management. After a successful pilot phase, the scheme now covers 80 farms in Al Wathba, with plans to expand to Al Nahda (130 farms) and Al Rahba (2,500 farms), reflecting the government’s commitment to food and water security.

Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi described the project as “a flagship example of how innovation and collaboration can drive more efficient resource management. By applying AI technologies and data-driven insights, we are reshaping water management in the agricultural sector to ensure this vital resource is used as efficiently as possible.”

Acting Director-General of ADAFSA Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri said, “The Smart Metre Project in Al Wathba marks a pivotal step toward developing a smart-agriculture ecosystem. It provides farmers with accurate, real-time information on water consumption, helping them improve resource management and enhance operational efficiency.”

The initiative is designed not only to support farmers but also to foster smarter, more sustainable practices across local communities, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s broader goals for innovation, sustainability and food security.