Nasser Saeed Al Mazrouei, an Emirati farmer, has achieved a remarkable feat by cultivating rice in the harsh desert environment of Ras Al Khaimah. Despite the arid climate, his farm now produces around 60 kilograms of rice annually, showing that agriculture is possible even in challenging conditions.

The experiment started when Al Mazrouei and other wheat farmers decided to try growing rice. They sourced seeds from India and Pakistan and nurtured them in nurseries before transplanting them to the fields.

Al Mazrouei emphasizes sustainable farming by using organic fertilizers and desalinated water, avoiding chemicals. He uses clay from nearby dams to help retain water in the soil and a drip irrigation system to save water, which is critical for rice cultivation.

Four types of rice are grown on the farm: Basmati, Hasawi, Anbara, and a dark brown variety. The growing season lasts about four to five months, from mid-June to October, with Basmati yielding up to 30 kilograms per kilogram of seed.

The farm has attracted attention from the local community, especially school groups interested in learning about sustainable agriculture. Al Mazrouei plans to expand the farm and grow more rice varieties in the future. He remains hopeful, saying, "There’s nothing impossible. We try, and the rest is up to God."