Construction of the world’s first circular GigaFarm – a vertical farming operation designed to optimise resource efficiency and localise production – is now well underway, with the first crops set to be harvested later this year.
British-based business Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) and ReFarm Global Investments LLC(ReFarm) will complete the first phase of construction at the GigaFarm site located in Dubai’s Food Tech Valley.
The landmark GigaFarm project, which is being developed on a 900,000 sq. ft. site which co-locates multiple complementary and proprietary technologies – including 200 vertical farming Growth Towers – establishing a self-contained closed-loop ecosystem designed to maximise resource efficiency and prevent waste going to landfill.
Andrew Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer of IGS commented: “IGS’ technology is a key enabler in proving that sustainable crop production is possible, even in some of the most climate-challenged regions in the world. Through British engineering and cutting-edge controlled-environment technology, we’re delivering a system that is scalable, supports resource efficiency and strengthens long-term food security for the UAE.”
The first phase of the project will bring 20 towers online during the summer. The first crops will be available to Dubai residents later this year.
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Andrew added: “As installation of the towers progresses, we’re proud of this step forward, and our partnership with ReFarm which reflects our shared commitment to a truly circular food system.”
Oliver Christof, Chief Executive Officer of ReFarm, commented: “The GigaFarm is more than a farm; it is the world's first fully integrated regenerative food ecosystem. By bringing together food production, resource recovery, water sovereignty, artificial intelligence, and circularity in one location, we are demonstrating how future cities can produce food locally while reducing waste, conserving resources, and regenerating the environment.
“Our ambition is not simply to grow food. It is to create a new category of infrastructure that strengthens food security, reduces reliance on imports, and transforms environmental challenges into economic opportunities. What begins in Dubai will serve as a blueprint for the future of food production worldwide.”
The site will be capable of growing more than three million kilos of produce annually. In addition, by diverting more than 50,000 tonnes of food waste from landfill each year through integrated waste-to-value and regenerative farming technologies, the GigaFarm will significantly advance the UAE’s efforts to create the world’s first affordable carbon positive food production, replacing 1% of the country’s fresh produce imports.
