Emirati farmer Khadija Alqubaisi named among FAO’s 100 Women Heroes
Khadija Darwish Alqubaisi, an Emirati farmer whose work combines sustainable agriculture with education and support for other women, has received international recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
The owner of Nad Al Dhab farm in Al Ain was selected for FAO’s 100 Women Heroes in Agrifood Systems and Rural Development, an initiative celebrating women whose contributions strengthen food production, protect natural resources and create opportunities within their communities.
Her selection, announced on October 9, recognises both her agricultural achievements and her efforts to share knowledge with students and the next generation of farmers.
Building a farming enterprise in Al Ain
Alqubaisi has promoted smart and sustainable farming practices while encouraging more women to participate in the agricultural sector. Her experience includes completing farmer field school training and applying agricultural knowledge to the development of her business.
Earlier in 2026, she won first place in the Distinguished Female Farmer category at the fourth Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award.
That national recognition preceded her selection by FAO, bringing wider attention to a career that connects farm management, community engagement and the adoption of modern agricultural practices.
Sharing knowledge beyond the farm
Through the Khadija Initiative, Alqubaisi has worked to support the development of smart and sustainable farms. She has also involved school students in agricultural awareness programmes, helping them understand farming’s importance to society.
Her participation in agricultural exhibitions provides another way to introduce women and young people to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sector.
Minister of Climate Change and Environment Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak praised her combination of farm development, support for women farmers and efforts to inspire students, linking those contributions to the UAE’s wider food security ambitions.
Recognition across the global food system
FAO’s initiative was launched to mark the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026. It recognises women working across the agrifood system, including food production, science, business, natural resource protection and rural development.
The organisation received 609 nominations from 131 members. Candidates underwent several stages of assessment, with the selection process considering the quality of their contributions, geographical balance and the diversity of roles represented.
The 100 honourees were celebrated at FAO headquarters in Rome on October 15 during the World Food Forum, coinciding with the International Day of Rural Women.
The recognition places Alqubaisi alongside women whose local work has contributed to stronger livelihoods, knowledge sharing and opportunities for others.
Practical support for women farmers
Her selection comes as the UAE expands practical training for Emirati women in agriculture. In August, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment launched the first phase of its Women Farmer Field Schools programme, working with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority and FAO.
The programme forms part of the Empowering Women Farmers initiative, launched under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak at the First Emirati Women Farmers Forum in Al Ain earlier in 2026.
Its approach centres on learning through experience, with training covering date palm management, pest control, irrigation, fertilisation, fruit and vegetable production, beekeeping and honey production.
Participants also develop skills in agricultural record-keeping and evaluating the economics of their projects. These practical tools are designed to help women make informed decisions about their farms, improve efficiency and build more sustainable businesses.
