Khalifa University Deploys AI Agricultural Robots to Drive UAE Food Security

Khalifa University of Science and Technology presented a suite of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic solutions for the farming sector at the Second Emirates Agricultural Conference and Exhibition 2026. The institution's participation centers on automating labor-intensive agricultural processes to increase efficiency in arid environments. Autonomous Systems and Desert Farming The university showcased five specific projects developed at its research centers. Among the primary innovations is a semi-autonomous robotic system designed for harvesting and pruning Date Palm trees. Using computer vision and machine learning, the robot identifies fruit ripeness and navigates the unique trunk structures of regional palm species. Another highlight includes an AI-enabled desert greenhouse system that optimizes water consumption and temperature control through real-time sensor data. The research teams also introduced advanced soil monitoring drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) use multispectral imaging to map nutrient levels and moisture content across large-scale farms, allowing growers to apply fertilizers and water only where necessary. This targeted approach aims to reduce…