UAE, Qatar strengthen Dutch–Gulf cooperation
The Netherlands deepens agricultural collaboration with Gulf partners through trade missions and technology exchange.
MIDDLE EAST – The Netherlands is stepping up its agricultural cooperation with Gulf countries after a successful trade mission by Dutch Greenhouse Delta (DGD) to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar last week.
The mission, which aligned with Agra Middle East 2025, highlighted how Dutch technology and regional partnerships can drive sustainable food production in arid environments.
The delegation began its visit in Dubai, where the Netherlands showcased its agritech solutions at Agra Middle East 2025. The Netherlands Agricultural Network in the GCC, represented by Simone Landhuis and Nienke Gelderloos, worked closely with DGD to bring together leading Dutch companies and local stakeholders.
“The Gulf region is advancing fast in sustainable food systems, and we see strong opportunities for collaboration that combine Dutch expertise with local ambition,” said Landhuis.
At a reception hosted by H.E. Paul Ymkers, Consul-General of the Netherlands in Dubai, participants from the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s agrifood sectors exchanged ideas on innovation and investment.
The gathering included companies such as TechAgro, Uns Vertical Farms, KRISPR, Elite Agro Holding, and the Saudi AgriFood Tech Alliance (SAFTA).
In the following days, the delegation visited TechAgro LLC and Silal Innovation Oasis in the UAE to learn about projects focused on efficiency and sustainable production. These visits offered a closer view of how local initiatives are working to improve food security.
An investment roundtable brought together financial experts and innovators to discuss how to expand sustainable horticultural projects. “We see clear interest from investors who understand that technology-driven agriculture is key to food resilience,” said a DGD representative.
Building momentum in Qatar
The mission continued in Doha, hosted by H.E. Ambassador Ferdinand Lahnstein and the Netherlands Embassy team. Meetings with Hassad Food and the Arab Qatari Agricultural Production Company (QATFA) provided insight into Qatar’s National Food Security Strategy 2030, which focuses on efficient resource use and advanced technologies.
An evening reception at the Ambassador’s residence fostered new connections, while a breakfast dialogue the next day brought together stakeholders from both nations, including Qatar Foundation, Earthna, and Wageningen University & Research.
H.E. Fahad bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, former Qatari Ambassador to the UK and Russia, joined discussions on strengthening food supply chains.
Later, H.E. Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, Minister of Municipality, met with the Dutch team to explore future cooperation and accepted an invitation to visit the Municipality of Westland and GreenTech Amsterdam 2026.
The delegation also visited Qatar Shell and Agrico Qatar to examine sustainable greenhouse energy solutions and modern hydroponic and aquaculture systems.
The UAE–Qatar mission confirmed the Gulf region’s growing focus on sustainable agri-food systems and the Netherlands’ role in supporting this transition.
“As Dutch Greenhouse Delta, we remain committed to partnerships that turn innovation into real impact,” the organisation stated. “We look forward to continuing this collaboration to strengthen food security across the region.”
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