Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, is preparing to acquire a 35% stake in Limagrain Vegetable Seeds (LVS). Objectively, this is a move that could transform agriculture in the Middle East. The partnership will include the creation of a joint research hub in Al Ain, dedicated to developing heat- and drought-resistant crops.
This deal not only signals ADQ’s growing interest in agri-tech, but also underlines the UAE’s mission to boost domestic food production and reduce its heavy reliance on imports.
A Strategic Bet on Resilient Agriculture
Founded in 1743, Limagrain is one of the world’s oldest and most respected vegetable seed companies. With over 50 research centers globally, it’s a leader in seed innovation. And now, ADQ is bringing that legacy to the heart of the desert.
The collaboration between Silal, ADQ’s agri-tech arm, and Limagrain will launch a desert-focused research facility at Silal’s Innovation Oasis in Al Ain.
- Location: Al Ain’s Innovation Oasis
- Goal: Create crops that thrive in heat, salinity, and water scarcity
- Facilities: Cutting-edge greenhouses and advanced seed labs
- Focus: Boost UAE’s domestic crop output to 50% of consumption
This new research hub will focus on developing vegetable seeds that can flourish in extreme desert conditions. Think tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers designed to withstand blazing sun, dry soil, and saline water, perfect for the region’s climate.
Why it Matters
The UAE currently imports a significant portion of its food. Initiatives like this one are part of a larger push to build local food resilience, especially in the face of global supply chain disruptions.
- ✅ Supports food security and self-sufficiency goals
- ✅ Encourages sustainable, tech-driven farming
- ✅ Attracts global talent and innovation into the UAE’s agri-sector
- ✅ Enables long-term agricultural independence
“The seeds segment is a natural extension of our agri-food strategy,” said Mansour Al Mulla, Deputy Group CEO at ADQ. “Limagrain brings world-class expertise that complements our infrastructure and boosts food sustainability in the UAE.”
On the other side, Sébastien Chauffaut, CEO of Limagrain, called ADQ the ideal partner to lead their MENA expansion, citing shared values and long-term vision. With ADQ’s regional influence, Limagrain could tap into new markets across the Middle East and North Africa faster than ever before.
What’s Next?
The deal still requires regulatory approvals and internal consultations before it’s finalized. But if everything moves ahead as planned, this partnership could revolutionize desert agriculture and inspire similar ventures across the region.
- ✅ Deal pending regulatory and employee approval
- ✅ Expected to accelerate MENA market expansion
- ✅ Could lead to hardy desert-grown veggies in local stores
What does this mean for AgriTech future?
As agri-food tech becomes central to climate resilience, this collaboration is more than a business deal, it’s a visionary step toward sustainable agriculture in one of the harshest environments on Earth.