From September 10-11, 2025
Global interest in sustainable agriculture is set to converge in the UAE this September, as Dubai prepares to host the 6th Global Vertical Farming Show, an event expected to draw policymakers, researchers, and technology leaders from across the world.
The event will take place on September 10-11, 2025, at the Festival Arena in Dubai, bringing together key players in the fields of vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA).
Hosted by Dubai-based TAB group, the gathering takes place at a time of heightened urgency across the Middle East and Africa, addressing food security, water scarcity, and the environmental impact of traditional agricultural practices.
Organisers say the show will feature a mix of private sector companies, public institutions, and global alliances focused on agri-tech solutions. Participants include the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development, the UAE Ministry of Economy, and the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park.
International companies from Asia, Europe, and North America are also expected to showcase products and services related to automation, LED lighting, hydroponics, climate control, and urban agriculture.
The rise of vertical farming — the practice of growing crops in stacked layers within controlled indoor environments — is gaining traction in the Arabian Gulf, where extreme climate and limited arable land have historically restricted local food production. With population growth and rising import costs, several countries in the region are investing in alternative farming technologies to bolster their domestic supply chains.
Experts say that vertical farming offers a potential solution for food independence and year-round crop production without the need for large-scale farmland. Water usage can be significantly reduced compared to traditional agriculture, a key concern in water-stressed countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
While vertical farming remains a relatively small part of the global food system, its industry has experienced accelerated growth in recent years. According to market data, the global vertical farming sector was valued at over $5 billion in 2023, with projections of continued growth driven by urbanisation, climate pressure, and innovation in agri-tech.
The Dubai summit will feature panel discussions, product showcases, and B2B networking sessions designed to foster investment and collaboration. Topics are expected to focus on operational efficiency, sustainable practices, and regional policy frameworks for promoting the adoption of vertical farming.
The inclusion of UAE government entities reflects the country’s broader push to become a regional leader in food technology. The National Food Security Strategy 2051, launched by the UAE in 2018, aims to make the country a global hub for innovation-driven food production.
As Arabian Gulf economies seek to diversify away from hydrocarbons, the vertical farming sector is being viewed as a viable investment category with long-term potential. At the same time, rising food prices and climate volatility are prompting governments to rethink traditional supply models.
The 2025 edition of the GVF Show is expected to attract several thousand attendees, underscoring Dubai’s position as a hub for agricultural innovation and technology-driven food resilience in the Middle East and beyond.
Register to attend and book an exhibitor booth here: https://verticalfarmingshow.com/registration.html
Middle East News 247 is a Media Partner of the 6th Global Vertical Farming Show.
Image: The rise of vertical farming is gaining traction in the Arabian Gulf, Credit: Anna Tarazevich
