This 9-year-old farmer is turning the desert green; growing tomatoes, carrots, potatoes on his farm

Emirati young farmer

In the heart of Al Ain, amidst the desert landscape, a remarkable young boy is making waves with his passion for organic farming. Meet Musleh Saeed Al-Eryani, a 9-year-old Emirati student whose dedication to agriculture is not only inspiring but also holds promise for the future of food security in the UAE.

From a tender age of three and a half, Musleh exhibited a fascination with plants, nurturing his own hydroponic garden with leaves and plants collected from his surroundings. Fast forward to today, and Musleh's backyard has transformed into a thriving micro-farm, boasting an impressive array of crops including tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and more.

Despite his young age, Musleh approaches farming with a sense of responsibility uncommon for most children. After completing his schoolwork, he diligently tends to his crops, watering, weeding, and pruning with care. For Musleh, the joy of harvesting his produce is unparalleled, as he eagerly shares the fruits of his labor with his family and neighbors.

However, Musleh's journey is not without its challenges. He faces setbacks like failed crops or inedible produce, but his resilience shines through as he perseveres, learning from his mistakes and striving for improvement. Through agriculture, Musleh has learned valuable lessons in patience and perseverance, qualities that will undoubtedly serve him well in his future endeavors.

With the support of his father, who provided the initial land and seeds for his venture, Musleh dreams of expanding his farming operations to contribute towards achieving food security for the UAE. His aspirations are lofty, aiming to manage large agricultural projects and cultivate rare, imported crops to diversify the country's food sources.

Beyond his personal ambitions, Musleh's journey highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation of farmers and instilling in them a passion for agriculture. He encourages fellow youngsters interested in farming to educate themselves through books, videos, courses, and hands-on experiences at local farms. Musleh's message is clear: patience and persistence are key, and the rewards of hard work will eventually come to fruition.

In a world where technological advancements often overshadow traditional practices, Musleh's dedication to organic farming serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless value of working the land. His story is not just about cultivating crops; it's about nurturing a connection to nature, fostering resilience, and laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.

As Musleh continues to nurture his green thumb and pursue his dreams, he embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines the UAE's agricultural landscape. With young visionaries like Musleh leading the way, the future of farming in the UAE looks brighter than ever.