Al Aliyo Farms

This interview details Al Aliyo Farms, an indoor farming company based in the UAE. The interview is with Tarannum Malik, Managing Director of Al Aliyo Farms.

‍

What is the origin story of Al Aliyo Farms?

‍

Climate change, constrained supply chains, and geopolitical disputes have placed immense strain on the global food system, especially in countries such as the UAE that rely heavily on importing agriculture products. The disruptions to the global food system have led to an increase in cost that ultimately reduces margin and/or demand for agricultural outputs. 

‍

‍

Through innovative and efficient farming techniques such as closed-loop hydroponic farming, Al Aliyo offers its consumers a locally grown alternative that is more sustainable and is available year-round.  

‍

Founded by a dynamic mother-daughter team, Farzana Malik and Tarannum Malik, Al Aliyo Hydrofarms is driven by a shared vision of creating a sustainable future for generations to come. Their passion for positively impacting the world led them to harness their collective expertise and align it with the global ambition to lead the way in innovation-led food security. Together, they are at the forefront of a green revolution, dedicated to making a lasting difference.

‍

What are some of the biggest challenges facing Al Aliyo Farms?

‍

Consumer Education and Awareness: Promoting the benefits of locally grown, sustainable produce may require significant efforts in consumer education and awareness. Al Aliyo must invest in marketing and outreach strategies to educate the public and build a loyal customer base.

What is unique about Al Aliyo Farms compared to competitors?

‍

Al Aliyo Hydrofarms is at the forefront of addressing the challenges faced by conventional agriculture. Our innovative and sustainable approach involves merging hydroponic farming techniques and advanced technology with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. By cultivating crops in controlled indoor environments, Al Aliyo maximizes the efficient use of resources, utilizes a water-negative process, and eliminates the need for harmful pesticides, fertilizers, and artificial nutrients. This results in producing high-quality, pesticide-free, and nutrient-rich produce all year round. 

‍

Al Aliyo envisions a future where fresh and nutritious food is accessible to communities worldwide, regardless of geographical limitations. Our ultimate goal is to promote food security, reduce the carbon footprint, and inspire a more sustainable and resilient food system. Al Aliyo is paving the way toward a healthier and greener future for everyone through our unwavering dedication to innovation and sustainability.

‍

How do you measure the impact of Al Aliyo Farms so far? (Revenue, Employees, Customer Quantity, Production Volume) etc?

Products: We have three divisions to Al Aliyo: Fodder for livestock, Rooted vegetables and microgreens, and pickles & spices.

Food Security: We are committed to promoting food security and track the impact of our distribution across all consumer segments.

Food Waste: We are committed to zero waste and monitor the volume of rescued ingredients from our own farm and from our customers.

Animal Health: We work with our farming customers to track improvements in animal health, and yields/weight gain.

What have you learned that you wish you knew when you joined or started the company?

Create product and industry awareness. 

The UAE is still adapting to the concept of Controlled Environment Agriculture, Vertical Farming, and Hydroponics. When we started the company, our main goal was to create the best quality product at an affordable price, and then focus on the marketing side. However, it would have been essential to have both aspects running simultaneously: R&D (production) and marketing.

How can people connect with you or learn more about Al Aliyo Farms?

‍

People can connect with us on all our social media handles (i.e., Linkedin, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter), on our website (www.alaliyofarms.ae), and get in touch with us directly over the phone or email. We would be happy to assist them.

‍

‍