At 82 years old, Emirati farmer Ahmed Mohammed Gharib continues to inspire with a lifelong dedication to agriculture, having spent more than five decades cultivating mangoes in Fujairah.
His passion for mango farming began after tasting the fruit for the first time, motivating him to introduce and grow different varieties in the UAE despite the challenging climate.
Over the years, Ahmed brought mango seeds and saplings from India and Pakistan, carefully experimenting with cultivation techniques to develop varieties that could thrive in local conditions. Today, he manages farms in Sharm and Al Bidya, where he also grows citrus fruits and date palms.
Depending on seasonal weather, his farms produce between 5,000 and 12,000 kilograms of mangoes annually. Beyond farming, he actively participates in agricultural exhibitions and events, including the Khorfakkan Mango Festival, where he promotes local produce, shares his decades of experience, and encourages younger generations to preserve the UAE’s rich agricultural heritage through innovation and dedication.
