UAE Deposits Seeds in Svalbard Global Seed Vault
In a landmark move for global food security, the United Arab Emirates has become the first Gulf nation to deposit seeds in the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, the world’s most secure agricultural storage facility. Located on a remote Arctic archipelago between Norway and the North Pole, the vault serves as a safeguard for the planet’s agricultural biodiversity.
The UAE’s deposit includes 315 seed samples from 110 plant species, carefully selected for their resilience to extreme climate conditions. Among them are seeds from the Ghaf tree, the UAE’s national symbol, known for its remarkable drought, heat, and salt tolerance. These seeds were collected and studied by the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai, which specializes in crops capable of thriving in harsh environments.
Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
“These seeds have traveled from the heart of the UAE to the Arctic permafrost, ensuring that future generations will have access to vital genetic resources for sustainable food production in a changing climate.”
Often referred to as the “Doomsday Vault,” the Svalbard facility is designed to protect the world’s agricultural heritage from natural disasters, wars, and climate crises. Buried deep inside a mountain and maintained at sub-zero temperatures, the vault currently holds over 1.3 million seed samples from 6,200 plant species.
The UAE’s contribution highlights its commitment to global food security and climate adaptation, particularly as rising temperatures and desertification threaten agricultural systems worldwide. By preserving these resilient seeds, scientists ensure that critical genetic material remains available for research and crop development in the face of future challenges.
This deposit aligns with the UAE’s broader efforts in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation, including initiatives like the National Food Security Strategy 2051. As climate change intensifies, the need for drought-resistant and salt-tolerant crops will only grow—making the UAE’s contribution to the Svalbard vault a crucial investment in humanity’s future.
With this historic deposit, the UAE not only secures its agricultural legacy but also reinforces its role as a proactive player in global sustainability efforts. The seeds stored in Svalbard today may one day help feed populations in a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges.
Source: Khaleej Times
