Modern technology is the cornerstone of supporting national development plans, particularly in agriculture, food, and water security. Acquiring and localizing these technologies has become an urgent necessity to address environmental and climate challenges. In this context, The Agricultural Research Station (ARS) at Qatar University (QU), through its participation in the Qatar International Agricultural and Environmental Exhibition 2025, seeks to promote research innovation and localize advanced agricultural technologies suited to Qatar's environment.
These efforts aim to combat desertification, rising temperatures, water scarcity, and high energy costs by directing internal and external research partnerships toward developing sustainable solutions. These initiatives align with Qatar National Vision 2030, which encourages a gradual transition toward adopting the latest agricultural technologies and systems to ensure food and water security and enhance sustainability.
In this regard, Dr. Mohammed Alsafran, Director of the ARS, stated that the new research center aims to innovate and develop modern agricultural technologies that enhance the efficient use of limited natural resources and address agricultural challenges in arid environments.
Dr. Al-Safran highlighted that the ARS is working on developing sustainable organic farming, which relies on crop rotation and organic fertilizer production to improve the fertility of Qatari soil. Additionally, the station provides technical and training services to government entities and farm owners, reinforcing its role as a national reference center contributing to solving agricultural issues and advancing the agricultural sector in Qatar.
He affirmed that through these efforts, QU aims to lead agricultural innovation, ensuring food security, environmental sustainability, and the transition to advanced agricultural systems that rely on modern technology in line with the state's aspirations in this vital sector.
Notably, the establishment of the ARS was approved in 2020 as a specialized research center within the Research and Graduate Studies at QU. Since then, the station has implemented clear strategic plans to enhance food and environmental sustainability through scientific research, training, and technical consultations, making it an academic hub that supports national institutions and the agricultural sector in the country.